DATA TRANSFERS

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February 28th, 2011

DATA TRANSFERS

New Laptops and Desktops are less costly than a year ago.  However if you have data on your old computer, you need to transfer it to a new computer. When I talk about data I am referring to:

1.  Email Files (Outlook/Outlook Express)

2.  Documents

3.  Pictures

4.  Music

Backing up your data from one Computer has an expense associated with it ($50).  Then, to transfer the backed up data over to a new computer will cost $50.  (If you want to keep the backed up data, you would provide/purchase the external device – like an external hard drive – so the data gets backed up onto your own hardware device).

Applications that cannot be transferred:

a.  Microsoft Office

b.  Microsoft Works

c.  Photoshop

d.  Quickbooks and Quicken

e.  Adobe Acrobat (paid software version)

f.  Any applications which were downloaded or software which has been upgraded.

Applications must be reloaded which means you must have the original media with the license #.  If you own a multiple user license, you still need the proper authentication.

There are some cases in which the data from the old computer cannot be transferred because the old hard drive has errors.  The cost of this data recovery is initally $195, but in some cases, if the hard drive has mechanical issues, the cost can be much higher.  This will be dealt on a case-by-case basis.


Software Applications, Up-to-Date?

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January 13th, 2011

SOFTWARE APPLICATIONS:

Are your SW applications up-to-date?

A major problem for independent contractors, retail stores and small businesses and individuals working out of one location, is that they rely on various software programs for their livelihood.  For instance – with interior designers, and professions that use a CAD-type of software, the software is very expensive ($4,000-$8,000). An important issue is that in order to continue to get updates, they must have a support contract. 

Contractors, plumbers, and electricians should be using QuickBooks or some type of accounting software to keep track of payments, receivables, as well as a database of their customers. 

The bottom line is to be prepared for disaster.  Keep your licenses up-to-date.  Make sure you have support and if necessary have the software on hand, in case you need to reinstall.  If your SW files get corrupted, the vendor will help you download the missing files – or the product – but you need to give them the correct licensing information or else the communication with the vendor will be frustrating and even more expensive.

This sounds like a lot of work and it is, but the consequence of not having the right information and software can be bleak.  Backing up the data is important too, but you can’t back up your software applications.

Your business relies on organization, records, and preparation in case of a disaster.