My Name, Location and Brokerage (+ URL)
Jim Kimmons, About.com
How long it takes me to answer an email in most cases
A few minutes, as I'm usually on the computer or have it with me.
The greatest value of mobile tech to me is
It allows me to better serve my clients where they want to meet.
My plans for mobile technology in the future include
I'll be buying more, and experimenting with new technology as it comes out. Sometimes it works, sometimes not, but I like to try it all.
What I Wanted to Accomplish
I wanted to be able to meet a client anywhere, including their hotel room in my vacation home market, and do everything I could do in an office. From searching the MLS, to printing listings, completing documents, eSignatures, and providing their copy on the spot, I want complete mobility.
What I've Bought and Tried
Just about everything. I've moved from desktop computers to a high end Toshiba Tablet, and finally to an HP 2140 Mini Netbook. I found that I didn't use the tablet as planned, that it was awkward and I didn't use the on-screen signature capability after a while.
With eSignatures from Docusign, and their "in person" signing option, I can get it all done with the netbook. I use a Samsung CL65 digital camera with GPS and Wifi, mostly for mapping area sites and listing locations to my website. With the Wifi, I can send images straight to Flickr, where I store more than 1100 shots now.
I have two mobile printers, one the HP 460, which I rarely use anymore. The other, a Pentax PocketJet 3Plus, requires no ink, and is very tiny and easy to carry.
As far as cell phones, I've used many, including a couple of smart phones. But, I've found that my LG Dare, used solely as a phone, is the way I prefer to go. I carry my netbook everywhere, so prefer to get email the regular way for the full size keyboard.
Lessons Learned
- I shouldn't buy technology on impulse.
- I should always ask myself what business benefit will be gained from a high dollar purchase.
- I should try to wait just a bit, letting other early adopters work out the kinks.
