'Tis the Season for a Tablet 

As one of the most popular purchases for the holiday season, tablets come in all shapes and sizes. For Windows affectionados, the new Windows 8 tablet is out. But whether you choose an iPad, Kindle, Nook, Microsoft or other tablet, you are getting a computing powerhouse in a tiny package that can keep you connected, entertained and productive 

If you are looking at your first tablet, it is helpful to know that a tablet is a mobile version of a personal computer. Just as the color and size varies, so do the features and functionality. With so many choices, it can be difficult to be confident that you are getting all the features you want and need in your device.

Use this checklist as a starting point. There are too many options to list them all, but this should get you pointed in the right direction. If possible, try before you buy and seek advice from other tablet owners. A good question to ask is if you had it to do over, what would you do differently?

Usage:

□  Internet

□  Email

□  Phone

□  Books

□  Music

□  Games

□  Social Media

□  Apps

□  Work Applications

□  Business Suites

Wear and Tear:

□  Normal

□  Rugged

Operating System:

□  IOS (Apple)

□  Android (Google)

□  Windows RT/8 (Microsoft)

Input:

□  Touch Screen

□  Keyboard

□  Docking Station

Screen Size:

□  Small (less than 8 inches)

□  Medium (8 to 10 inches)

□  Large (more than 10 inches)

Price:

□  Less than $200

□  $200 - $500

□  Over $500

Click here to learn more about the evolution of tablets.

Questions? Comments? Post or send us an email: info@lansystems.com.

Document Management; Why Now?  

By guest author: Greg Schloemer, President, DocuWare Corporation

Businesses of all sizes are being impacted by the economic down-turn; budgets are being cut and capital investments eliminated.

The question is why would a customer consider investing into a document management solution during these tough economic times? There are three areas that are of particular interest and concern for a customer. The first is managing money and cash flow more efficiently. The second is retaining customers and improving relationships to encourage more repeat business. The third is in the event of a reduction in personnel, that the appropriate procedures are in place and work effectively to limit legal exposure.

By automating business processes using document management (workflow) internal procedures are maintained, while at the same time productivity, accuracy, and quality are improved.   One example is that incoming invoices can be automatically routed for approval without manual intervention along with all supporting documentation required to ensure prompt payment and associated cash discounts. Managing and automating business processes, particularly accounting processes, also significantly increases internal control-a key factor for both internal and external auditors, and for successfully managing any company, regardless of size.  

Empowering employees with information can have a significant and positive effect on customer service and customer relationships. The customer's experience is enhanced when their questions and requests are quickly answered and responded to. Customers are more likely to remain loyal, place additional orders for repeat business and will refer their associates based on their positive experience.

Compliance with internal procedures along with the retention of critical information is key to limiting legal exposure - one good example is in the HR department Document management facilitates the necessary documentation for hiring and terminating personnel. Access is limited to only individuals with the appropriate rights. Necessary documentation that is required for the human resource department to be in compliance with the various state, federal and compliance agencies is assured of being available.  By eliminating much of the human factor, processing speed, accuracy, and elimination of lost or misfiled documents are all significantly increased, and retention cycles are ensured.

Why consider document management now?   For the customer, document management provides tangible, proven benefits with a very strong return on investment (ROI) that encourages companies to implement solutions especially in these worrisome economic times.

Download The Paper Free Office: Dream or Reality?

For more information, contact Mike Fung-A-Wing at mfungawing@tbsgeorgia.com.

Business tax benefits under the Section 179 deduction can be a financially attractive way for businesses to purchase equipment. It allows businesses to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment purchased or financed during the tax year. This incentive is a very effective way to purchase servers and computer upgrades for your business. The new law allows 50% "Bonus Depreciation" on qualified assets placed in service during 2012. Use it with a financing option for maximum benefit.

LAN Systems would be happy to look at your Information Technology (IT) needs to see if a server or desktop purchase would benefit your business this year. There are many ways to improve your business productivity by investing in your computer systems. We can even help with financing options. As always, the best source of customized financial advice for your business is your accountant.

http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/article/0,,id=213666,00.html