Ok, it’s that time of year when we all decide to create some new habits.
No…I don’t mean that plan to lose some weight, to quit smoking, spend more time with loved ones, to exercise more, or even the one about remembering to back up your computer on a regular basis!
No, I’m talking about keeping your business fresh by keeping your tools working efficiently. Your tools for the benefit of this discussion are your computer and support equipment.
You’ve been extremely busy this past year and your trusty, ol’computer has been hanging in there with you cranking out emails, blogs, and sales info till the wee hours of the morning, day after tiring day.
While you’ve been busy on your computer downloading software, sample plug-ins, promotional items and the like, what you haven’t noticed is how slow your computer has really become!
Think for a minute, how long it takes for your computer to shut down when you finally call it a day? Hmmm…now that you think about it, quite a while, huh?
And the processing time? Takes longer to load a video, or a website with a lot of graphics, or pics.
The problem is that like all of us you have a bunch of ‘crap’ (that’s a technical term for unnecessary programs running that you’re not using) loaded inside your computer. How’d they get there? You put them there each time you downloaded a piece of software you wanted to sample, a video, sometimes even emails, YouTube videos, or messages you’ve received from a friend.
Adding to this heap of unwanted software are those “if you don’t like it just delete it” samples offered on the internet that contain additional pieces of software that are not removed from your computer when you delete the program you just downloaded or the video you just watched.
Can you stop it? Very difficult. Good news is that most are harmless. These folks are masters at attaching and hiding such programs. Many are programmed to start-up every time you turn on your computer, you don’t see them, but they’re running in the background, slowing start-ups and shut-downs. Think cookies.
Now, I’m making the assumption that everyone has their favorite “protection” loaded onto their machines so this is not a discussion of firewalls and virus protection. Your virus protection will do its job of protecting your computer from damage; what we’re talking about today is just a nuisance that slows down our work.
If you’re anything like me I’m constantly downloading plug-ins, software samples, videos, graphics, training audios, etc., and my poor ol’computer gets pretty bogged down by year’s end. So as I take a little time this New Year to have some compassion for my computer (my business partner), I would like to share with you the importance of keeping your ‘tools sharp.’
No, I’m not going to recommend a magic wand to wave over your computer and return it to its original operating efficiency, but I am going to share with you a few resources and ideas that will help make your work more efficient.
Your Business Partner:
Its time to clean up (out) all the useless crap (that technical term again) that isn’t being used and just wasting space and time. In every city around the world there are computer gurus that will tune-up your computer; some are independent contractors working from their homes, others are franchised businesses on streets and in shopping malls.
Ask around and you’ll be surprised at the number of good recommendations you’ll receive. If you live near a college or university campus, they’re everywhere. All the major department stores and computer retailers have repair departments. Go to the Great Google if all else fails and type in computer repair and the name of your city…BAM!
Prices will vary from about $100 – $200 for a thorough wash and rinse!
If you’re a hands-on DIY type, here are five sources that I’m familiar: (PCs only)
AUSLOGICS BOOST-SPEED 5 – Has a really basic interface. Scans your computer and displays a simple layout of all the unnecessary programs you’ve accumulated. Delete and Go! Cost approx. $50
TUNEUP UTILITIES 2011– Allows you to scan your computer while it rates your programs with a number of stars as to the value. Very intuitive. Cost approx. $50
SLIMWARE SLIMCLEANER 1.9 – This software will scan your computer and evaluate the large program files; lists them with comments, ratings and reviews from other users. Cost Approx. $0 for Basic package.
IOBIT ADVANCED SYSTEMCARE PRO 4 – Scans your PC and lists those programs that are wasting space. Like others is has a feature to automatically schedule regular scans. Cost Approx. $0 for the Basic package, approx. $20/yr. for an upgrade.
AOL TECHGURU – This is a unique service that allows you to talk to the Tech while you both are online scanning your computer. Cost approx. $20 (look for $5 promotions)
CACHE, COOKIE and HISTORY CLEANER – Save this one in your Favorites for regular use. Indiana University Technology Department walks you step-by-step through a process of cleaning your cookies (kinda relevant to this time of year)!
I know you’ll find any one of these helpful and I encourage you to use your favorite software program or tech guru and revitalize your most important business partner…your computer.
As always, I have no professional affiliation with any of these businesses, and don’t earn a thing by referring you; just my way of sharing some info and helping you get a jump start on a new and prosperous year.
Remember, it’s a business expense…and a tax deduction!
Talk soon,
-Jonathan
P.S. – Did this post help you? Please leave a comment below.
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