"Information technology and business are becoming inextricably interwoven. I don't think anybody can talk meaningfully about one without the talking about the other."
--- Bill Gates
In Stephen Ambrose's book, Nothing Like it in the World, the story of the men who built the Transcontinental Railroad, he quotes a newspaper editor that stated that riding a train that goes over 25mph could kill a person. He said, "The human body was not designed or meant to go at such tremendous speeds." It can seem comical to us today after years of progression in the realm of transportation, but with every new technology, we are bound to have naysayers.
"Not all problems have a technological answer, but when they do, that is the more lasting solution."
--- Andrew Grove
Some business leaders today are embracing the advancements made in the cell phone industry. Products such as the iPhone are being used to email bids, proposals, and invoices straight from the job site. Mapping tools on the new phones are helping us find job locations, track the whereabouts of personnel, and determine mileage for figuring out drive time and man-hours.
But, as with all new technology, there are those who won't budge on upgrading their phones. Of course, that is fine if the tools (cell phones) you are now using still gets the job done. But, what if? What if you could produce more in less time? What if upgrading to new technology actually contributes to increasing your bottom line?
"The Internet has been the most fundamental change during my lifetime and for hundreds of years. Someone the other day said, 'It's the biggest thing since Gutenberg," and then someone else said 'No, it's the biggest thing since the invention of writing.'"
--- Rubert Murdoch
The new cell phones also include options for uploading thousands of helpful applications (Apps), and some not so helpful. It is said that over one hundred per day are being produced and submitted to Apple and other providers for consideration. Many of these Apps are extremely helpful for running a business. It is like having a personal computer on steroids with you at all times.
Other technologically advanced products on the market include the Kindle and the Nook that allow you to download books to read from one device that you can take with you anywhere. While the products are very popular and are selling like hotcakes, they are being pooh-poohed by some that simply don't like change. I can understand the nostalgia of holding a book and the smell and feel of a book, but like most creative advancements, these products have their place as a way to increase knowledge at work or at home.
"The Star Trek computer doesn't seem that interesting. They ask it random questions, it thinks for a while. I think we can do better than that."
--- Larry Page
We've all heard it said that once you purchase a computer, it is already out of date before you get it to the office or home. Still, it is better to at least try to improve your business with the latest in technology when you feasibly can. We used to hang pictures using hardware store picture hangars or nails, then we discovered Monkey Hooks (you should try them, they work!). We had multiple screwdrivers (the tools, not the drink), then we bought an interchangeable one. The list could go on and on, but the point is that diving into new technology can be unconformable for the Type B personality and others, but can save thousands of dollars in time.
"Technology is always evolving, and companies...not just search companies.. can't be afraid to take advantage of change."
--- Eric Schmidt
Why Vehicle Installations Fail
By Rob Ivers
A guide to root causes, prevention & successful graphic installation
Read the article...
UV-LED Technology Update - stretching the limits
By John Kuta & Nidal Abbas
UV digital printing is the fastest growing segment in the wide-format printing industry and has taken a central place in the graphics business. And UV LED (light emitting diode) technology is poised to take on UV arc lamps as the next generation of UV light applications.
Read the article...
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Advertiser - American Sign Museum
Sign Museum Auction Goes On-Line April 1st
By going on-line, the entire sign and imaging industry can now participate.
Bidding starts at 12 midnight Eastern Standard Time on April 1, 2011 and continues for 30 days and nights, ending on Saturday, April 30 at 3:00 pm Pacific Standard Time. Those attending the ISA SIGN EXPO show in Las Vegas, can get in their last-minute bids on-site at the museum’s booth (#3317). Don’t wait for the show, but make sure you mark your calendar. Visit:
http://www.biddingforgood.com/americansignmuseum
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At a street crossing in San Francisco:
"Blind Persons Cross Here"
At a Dairy Queen in Georgia:
"Scream Until Daddy Stops The Car!"
In the window of a Travel Agency:
We know those funny signs are out there. Take a moment and send them in to us and we'll share them with the world. Send all hysterical observations to: info@signindustry.com.