The IPAD is it for you?

I was asked to test the functionality of the IPAD by Apple to identify if it could be used for business applications within our organization. First, I am not an avid Apple product user so I had to learn all the basics which oddly enough my 10 year old daughter knew quite extensively. Quite simply, the Apple IPAD is a large IPOD, if you're familiar with that tool. It functions as a large media center with the ability to surf the net using its bright screen and touch capabilities.

OK, so the findings, in a nut shell, I'm not a fan. I worked hard to break the paradigm of using a PC and move to this platform, but in my opinion the IPAD is not a business tool. Besides the learning curve of working in the Apple platform, there are numerous functionality issues that I have with the machine. The touch screen usually produces web content in the small screen provided so that you have to touch the screen to navigate. Well, it becomes difficult unless you enlarge the screen to make the links easier to touch. In my case I just found I wasted so much time hitting the wrong links due to pressing in the wrong spot. Touch screens for me are not my cup of tea. No web cam, enough said! I even asked the folks at Apple about the potential of hooking up an external one as we need that capability for doing web conference meetings, and they advised no go.

The ports; well there are only two, and do not try and fool the IPAD by adding an attachment that turns the main port into a USB port. It will quickly tell you that there is not enough power to run a web cam, camera, or alternate device you want to run. If you want to browse fliers or sites that require flash, you are out of luck. Apple and Adobe are not on good terms, and Apple will not adopt the Adobe products.  So, viewing these types of sites online becomes trouble. Although I like the fact you can get cool APPS by downloading them through Itunes, the good ones come with a cost, and of course this is Apples way of making the real money.

Conclusion:  Although the IPAD is sleek and a great travel companion, that is where it ends for me. If you like the IPOD and you are looking for a larger version, then the IPAD is your answer. If you are more focused on using your computer for word processing and business applications, stick with a laptop. The keyboard and use of mouse for me personally is something that I need to maintain because it provides the best practical method for the applications I use.

Hope you find this post worthwhile,
Cory

Good run

I went for a run last night for the first time since my injury. It is amazing how fast the body can change. It was a struggle to get going and what normally was an easy run became quite a challenge. My goal is to be able to run 5km without having to stop. The tendon is swollen quite a bit, but overall I felt comfortable. Will try again tomorrow.

Mastercard

Just a quick update on an interesting campaign that we are offering right now. If you don't have a credit union MasterCard, now is the time to consider applying for one. For a limited time only all entries will have the opportunity to win a grand prize of a $5000 dream vacation! Applying is easy, simply call your credit union branch today.

What's in my wallet? Well, I have chosen our Platinum MasterCard product for several reasons.

1. I travel frequently for work. This card has numerous insurance provisions that protect me while I am traveling.
2. I rent vehicles when I travel so the cost savings of not having to buy alternate insurance for a rent-a-car is instant savings.
3. Purchase protection provides me two years of additional warranty on items that I purchase using my card.
4. The travel rewards. Every $5000 I spend on my credit card I earn $100 travel credit.

How easy is it book travel? You can simply call the 1-800 number or go online and book with ease. So far, since I've owned this card I have booked trips to Mexico and Florida, all on travel rewards. Accumulation of points is very simple.  Here are some tips that I use:

1. I have my phone and satellite bill paid by my MasterCard automatically.
2. I purchase everything with my credit card:  gas, groceries, and all other expenses.
3. I have informed my parents and others that if they are making large purchases to let me know and I will purchase it on my card to accumulate the rewards.

Start today!