WHAT IS FIOS AND DO YOU NEED IT?
Wikipedia describes Fios as a bundled home communications service, (Internet, telephone and TV) operating over a fiber-optic communications network. This means that you are using one dedicated line into your home or apartment. In the case of an apartment, you are no longer sharing cable with the rest of the tenants, therefore dealing with varying speeds depending on how many people are watching TV or accessing the Internet at the same time. In the greater NYC area, Verizon is the service provider offering a Fios package.
Is the service for you? As always, there is not a standard answer and it depends on your specific needs. Chances are that unless you are currently using a bundled package from your cable company (Time Warner, RCN, etc), you probably have separate providers for your telephone, TV and Internet.
Before making a decision, keep in mind that Verizon Fios is not available in all areas. The first step is to determine what you are spending for your current services (Internet, TV and Telephone). I recently switched from my local cable company to Verizon Fios and was able to reduce my bill for all three services by nearly 50%. I was able to keep my existing phone number, increase the number of premier TV channels and enhance my Internet access speed substantially.
As indicated above, while my result is not uncommon, the decision whether or not to switch will be based on availability, your current usage and cost.
If you are interested in finding out more about fiber optics and if this program is right for you, give me a call (917 921-4518) or send an e-mail to jblue@bluetutor.com.
Never Forget Anything Again!
7 Reasons why you should be using Evernote
1. It’s in the “cloud”
2. It can be accessed from any computer or mobile smartphone
3. Keeps me organized
4. I can enter notes, things to do, and anything that comes to mind from home, office, a restaurant, taxi, etc.
5. I don’t have to carry little scraps of paper around in my pockets or briefcase
6. I can do a search to find where any item is filed
7. It’s FREE!!!
Need to Access Your Files on the Road? Try Dropbox
Dropbox allows you to access your files from the road, from any computer and mobile device such as an I-Phone, I-Pad, or blackberry. No need to run back home or to the office to retrieve documents. Dropbox is the ultimate “cloud application” for the road warrior. Works with both Windows and MAC based computers.
Here’s why you should be using Dropbox:
- Up to 2GB of free storage. $9.99/mo for 50GB, $19.99/mo for 100GB.
- Sync any size and type of file, documents, pictures, videos, audios, etc.
- Saves any changes when working on files in Dropbox.
- Share files with friends and business associates.
I have set up folders in my Dropbox account the same way they are organized in my computer. I never have to worry about getting a copy of my passport, driver’s license, medical claim forms, etc. Writing a book? Simply upload it into Dropbox and work on it from any computer or smartphone.
It’s a Mobile World! Are you prepared?
Internet access through mobile phones is expected to represent around 50% of total Internet usage by 2014. (Gartner)
Do you Own a Smartphone?
By definition, a smartphone is any mobile device that combines functions such as telephone, e-mail, Internet access, contact information, and calendar.
The three major suppliers of smartphones are Apple’s I-Phone, RIM’s Blackberry, and Google’s Android.
Here are the facts about the growth of the smartphone market.
- The Earth’s population is app. 6.7 billion
- There are 4.6 billion mobile phone subscribers worldwide. (U.N. Telecommunication Union)
- in 2009, smartphones accounted for 172 million (14%) of all mobile phones sold, a 23% increase over 2008. (Gartner)
- During Q2 2010, smartphones represented 62 million (19%) of mobile phones sold, an increase of over 50% on Q2 2009. (Gartner)
- Estimated sales of smartphones are expected to reach 500 million in 2012. (Morgan Stanley Research)
- Sales of smartphones are estimated to exceed those of PCs in 2012. (Gartner)
- Global smartphone sales are expected to reach 2.5 billion during the 2010-2015 period and that Internet use via smartphones will increase 50 fold by the end of that period. (Coda Research Consultancy)
- At the end of 2009, 97% of all Americans were using mobile phones. (Pew Research Center)
- During Q2 2010, sales of smartphones accounted for 25% of the US mobile phone market. By the end of 2011, the percentage of smartphone sales is expected to exceed 60%. (Nielson)
Will your current mobile phone permit you to be a player in the new Mobile World? If you want to learn more about how to become a true “Road Warrior,” give me a call at 917 921-4518 or e-mail me at jblue@bluetutor.com
Are You Part of the Communication Revolution?
In the United States alone, the number of Facebook users now exceeds 125 million, more than double over last year. That’s more than 35% of the population and 75% of people with online access. Believe it or not, 40% of users are over 35 years old and the biggest increase in users is 55 and older.
Why the explosive growth? First of all, nearly everyone is turning to the web to research products and services. The Web has become both a time and money saver. Most importantly, however, is that Social Media sites such as Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter have brought the world together. The world of Social Media has changed how people communicate and interact, how governments talk to people, and transcend geographic borders. Facebook, in particular, permits you to reconnect with people from the past, both personal and professional. It has been the most effective tool in communicating with family members and business associates and sharing photos.
To gain a better understanding of how you can become part of the Communication Revolution, call 917-921-4518 or e-mail jblue@bluetutor.com. In addition, I invite you to listen to my podcast, Social Media, which is listed on the right.
Why you need a Technology Concierge
Your throat hurts and your fever reaches 103 degrees. You call the doctor.
The water pipe breaks in the bathroom. You call the plumber.
Your car is smashed. You call the insurance company.
You need to buy or rent. You call a real estate agent.
And the list goes on and on ……….
When your computer stops working, most likely you have someone you can call for basic computer help; a family member or a local techie. Do you get voice mail? What is their response time?
Techies do an excellent job of repairing what is broken. But who do you call if you need to make a major purchase? In the market for a new computer or printer, or simply need advice on a new product? Whom do you call?? Determining whether your technology supports your personal or business needs is another matter.
What you need is a Technology Concierge, someone you can call at anytime to discuss a range of issues ranging from why your computer may be sluggish, buying a new cell phone, getting an opinion about the new I-Pad, or finding out how Social Media can build your business. Your time is important to you. So many options to consider!
Technology plays a major role in all our lives. Thousands of dollars are spent on equipment and services. Making sure that you make the right decision is time consuming and requires a degree of knowledge that is beyond the average person.
For over 15 years, I have advised clients on all issues regarding their technology. My business background uniquely qualifies me to understand your individual needs, making sure that ALL your equipment and services are both state of the art and cost efficient.
As your Technology Concierge, I can be your time saver and probably save you a considerable amount of money by just having a telephone conversation with you. If necessary, a visit to your home or office can be scheduled to assess your needs in greater detail. In addition, if technical assistance is necessary, I have a team of professionals that are available, in a timely manner, to handle any issues that might arise. As your Technology Concierge, you may call me anytime; weekdays, evenings and even weekends, for advice on anything that is on your mind.
To discuss how you can have your own personal Technology Concierge, I can be reached by phone 917 921-4518 or by e-mail at jblue@bluetutor.com.
Top Reasons Why You Should Be Shopping Online
Thousands of companies, large and small, have set up online stores. Companies that have retail outlets (Bloomingdales, Costco, Target, Staples, etc.) offer specials and coupons online. Manufacturers that used to sell just to stores, now sell directly to you online.
Online only companies such as Amazon, Fresh Direct, etc, operate with no physical storefronts and little or no inventory and pass much of the savings on to you. The savings can be great. Online buying is a time saver.
Why you should be shopping online?
– Saves time
– Can shop any time of the day
– Avoid large crowds
– No checkout lines
– Ability to comparison shop
– Don’t have to go from store to store to find what you need
– find things easily
– Usually less expensive. People like to buy at wholesale
– Possibility of Free Shipping
– Coupons
To listen to my podcast of why you should be be shopping online, click on the link below.
Planning a trip or vacation? What you need to bring with you.
More than likely, you or your family will be traveling sometime during the summer. Whether it is a vacation or business trip, you will have to make a few decision about what type of electronic gadgets, mobile devices, computers, etc. will have to accompany your clothes.
Gone are the days when it was possible to disappear into the mountains, travel abroad or just be out of contact. Airports are now wired, most hotels have some type of Internet access and mobile cell networks are available all over the world.
What you need to take with you depends on what degree of accessibility is important to you. Listen to my podcast before you decide to unplug everything and stuff them in your suitcase. You may be surprised how you can travel lightly and save money in the process.
The new Ghost Writer. Do you need a “Cyber Assistant?”
The Internet has become the single most important tool for people and business owners to keep in touch and be heard. Whether it be blogging, tweeting, or simply maintaining a presence on Facebook and other social media sites, these tasks can become overwhelming. Today busy people are turning to freelance writers to be their “Cyber Ghosts” to write blogs and post important events, product developments and services for them. This new breed of personal assistants are bright, Internet savvy and possess excellent writing skills.
Starting a new business? Have you thought about your technology needs?
Thinking about starting a new business? Have you recently left corporate life either by choice or the result of downsizing? If you have decided to start your own business, chances are that you have already spoken with an attorney, accountant and probably have a plan in place to finance your new venture. However, have you given any thought to a Technology Plan? Will you be setting up a home office? As an entrepreneur, you no longer can call a support desk when something goes wrong. How about a backup and disaster strategy?
Technology is now the single most important tool you will need to support your business. Along with a traditional business plan, here are some technology issues that you should address before you are too far along with your venture.
1. Where will your business be based? At home, business center, traditional office, etc.
2. Will you be spending most of your time in your office or on the road. Is international travel involved?
3. What type of computer(s) will be needed? What about printers, scanners, etc.?
4. How will you be accessing the Internet? If there are multiple computers, will you need a network? Will you need to be wireless?
5. What software will you need? Have you considered the Internet has a resource for functions such as e-mail, telephone, contact information, calendars, etc.
6. Have you thought about support and maintenance? Although, there maybe someone on staff that is able to handle simple maintenance issues, you should consider using an outside resource to reduce the amount of system down time. Outsourcing your technical support permits you and your employees to focus on your business.
It is possible to save thousands of dollars by addressing your technology needs in advance.
**YOUR SUCCESS WILL DEPEND ON HOW WELL YOUR TECHNOLOGY SUPPORTS YOUR BUSINESS!!**