Ubiquity - Part Two

second of two parts
first part

Ubiquitous file-sharing.

Too many times entire teams of expensive IT professionals waste significant time and money with problems sharing files remotely.

Sometimes large files get lost with an email attachment, or the sender simply forgets to actually attach the file.

Using an FTP directory with a simple path name works well. Anyone with a web site can set up such a directory.

With an ID and password, you can read and post files to the FTP site by using Internet Explorer.

You drag or copy and paste files into the Explorer window.

I routinely use an FTP directory to backup and access personal files from several locations.

Another approach is to setup a small 'group' using web sites such as Yahoo! Groups. They allow a few users to have a private space to share files and messages.

Other third party virtual office tools are available, such as Groove. However, I can't recommend any of these tools yet.

The biggest problem with file-sharing tools, including FTP, is getting everyone to use them.

Many people will only look at their email.

 

Ubiquitous PC.

When you have forgotten something or another need comes up unexpectedly, having remote access to your main PC and its desktop view can be very helpful.

The only tool I have used with much success has been gotomypc.com.

Other tools are available, including free software such as NetMeeting and Windows XP's remote desktop.

gotomypc.com works via a web browser.

Over a high-speed connection, you can comfortably transfer files or use Outlook Express.

You would not want to use it, however, for programs such as Photoshop that involve a lot of mouse movements and screen refreshes.

 

Ubiquitous data.

My strongest recommendation for keeping any personal data immediately accessible for a long time is to routinely use a PDA, such as the Palm or Pocket PC.

My PDA holds phone numbers, appointments, signons and passwords, meeting notes, conference notes, serial numbers, misc. 'how to' instructions, driving directions, and many other types of information.

 

Ubiquitious possibilities.

In his book "Being Digital", Nicholas Negroponte coined the phrase "bits are bits."

Any data or information can potentially be saved and transmitted anywhere to be accessed by anyone anytime for an indefinitely long time.

Next time your business or organization is planning a project, keep this in mind.

Don't rush to a solution without first studying the current work.

Identify information gaps that present opportunities to be faster, more productive, and serve the customer better.

Be impractical for awhile in early planning.

Ask the question, "if we had a magic wand, what would we change to make this magically work better?"

Often an impractical idea will lead to other ideas that you can actually implement.

In a brainstorming meeting, be sure to include people who can think broadly about the technology opportunities available.

Posted April 16, 2003
By Joe Grant

the next the180: Cents and Sensibilities - inherent strengths and weaknesses of IT team members