Technology has become a great asset to this industry. So many doors have been opened in this technology age. Almost any information is available 24 hours a day via the internet. Banking or paying bills has never been easier or more convenient than with the internet. Accounting and quoting are a breeze with the help of QuickBooks and QuickBooks & Quoting 7.1. Custom computerized renderings can be created in half the time with Studio and can be altered with a few clicks of the mouse when the client changes his or her mind. 

Still, there are many people that resist this newfound asset. We all know technology is here to stay and is mandatory if your company wants to stay competitive. In the last two years, I have seen a huge shift towards technology in our industry; for example, I have been excited to see the number of people who now have switched from dial-up to high-speed internet.

I know all of you want to move your business forward with the use of technology. Read the list below and see which suggestions fit into your business plan this year.

• Switch to a high-speed internet service (either DSL or cable) - you will be amazed at how much faster you can work.

• Purchase a domain name for your company and hire someone to create your website. Having a website gives your company more credibility.

• Do your banking online - You can view transactions within minutes of their occurrence. All financial institutions have very secure sites that have been encrypted to ensure complete privacy.

• Pay your bills online - all credit card payments can be made online.

• Join webinars (online seminars) to save time and travel expense.

• Take advantage of forums to learn your software programs.

• Use Minutes Matter Studio to create unique and beautiful computerized renderings for your clients.

• Use QuickBooks as your accounting software for your business.

• Use QuickBooks & Quoting 7.1 to learn to use QuickBooks to the fullest extent and quote jobs in a fraction of the time.

• Purchase a laptop when it is time for your next computer purchase. Laptops are the best way to show how your company provides the latest in technology. Wow them on the spot by simply dragging over a few images to give an idea of the design you have in mind, and then quote the job in minutes with QuickBooks & Quoting 7.1.

• Produce maps for client appointments with Microsoft Streets & Trips, MapQuest etc. Microsoft has a version with a GPS locator; just plug it into your laptop.

• Visit vendor websites. Most vendors have great websites which display great product shots as well as detailed product information.

• Purchase a digital camera, preferably a SLR (Single Lens Reflex). See our previous newsletter article  "Take Your Best Shot."

• Webcams provide a quick method of communication between designers and workrooms.

I know you are thinking "When am I going to have time to learn all this?" First of all, you can't do everything in one week; however, you can learn something new EVERY week. That's the key - Learn something new every week! Don't let one week go by that you didn't enforce this philosophy. When will there ever be time if you don't make time? "Plan your work and work your plan." Just like deciding to get married or have a baby, when is the perfect time? You have to make time. If you put off learning and implementing these new products and techniques today, where will your company be NEXT year? I know, the same place you are this year! Don't put it off another year; decide now to move your business forward.

There are so many tools available to you - so why not take advantage of them! Don't spend your time trying to reinvent the wheel; invest in products and services that will help get you up and running fast.

Remember, do what you do best and let us help you with the rest!