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¨Social distancing¨ has become enshrined in the pop culture vocabulary of 2020 and beyond, but any nerd knows that we were doing it way before it went mainstream….so when my daughter came up with the concept for the shirt you see, I immediately ordered one for all of Team Archway…but I didn´t think it was fair to keep all the style and social media likes for ourselves…and that´s why we made it so you can get one of your very own!

Not only is this shirt an ideal attire choice for all the hottest and most exclusive video conferences of the season, ALL SALE PROCEEDS will go to the Feeding America program, so you can look good, have a laugh, and help the most vulnerable people in our country keep food on their tables through this unprecedented challenge. That´s a nice little bundle of wins.

Is There Such a Thing as Home School School?

It’s been a while since my last PTA meeting, but I can only imagine what it’s like to have school-age children sitting around the house just waiting to be educated, as kids do…it’s like some kind of endless snow day (or at least what this Southern California boy hears that snow days were like on the TV).

The students themselves may not mind the free time too much, but if you´re looking for a way to salvage some semblance of schooling between now and the usual end of the academic year, Rosetta Stone has stepped to the plate with a sweet offer. 

The language learning resource is offering free student access to its online tools for 3 months, and since your 3rd grader is probably going to slack off at some point in the next 90 days, it’s a good opportunity for you to pick up a few phrases as well, n´est-ce pas?

A Cavalcade of Concerts

While we can–and will–try to make the best of it, in some cases the reality of the current crisis is always evident. Particularly here in the LA area, the concert and festival season would typically be in full swing by the end of April, but with Mayor Garcetti recently making the pronouncement that Angelenos should probably not expect to amass anytime soon, it´s safe to say that this is not a typical year.

On the bright side, it is definitely cool to see big-time artists and creators still looking for ways to keep their fans engaged through these strange days, and this list of upcoming livestreams is proof that is we absolutely have to pick a time to be locked inside indefinitely, the Internet age isn´t the worst choice. Featured artist range from Snoop Dogg to the Grateful Dead and pretty much everyone in between, so you´re bound to find something worth a click and listen.
 

The Last Word 

All right, that´s about all for this week, but before I go I want to thank everyone reading this for taking the time to do so…it´s great to know I still have an audience with all this competition. I´ll be checking in with you in a few days, keep an eye on your inbox, but if you have something worth sharing for the next episode, a reader email always puts a smile on my face so shoot one over anytime!

The post Social Distancing Archway Style first appeared on Archway Computer.

Are you spending a lot more time with your laptop lately and wish you had a bigger screen? 

Well, if your local essential goods store specializing in oversized computer monitors has shut down for a bit, you may have an option already lying around at home: your television! This easy to follow guide from CNET details how to connect your laptop to your TV for a big-time upgrade to your laptop´s manufacturer-specified screen size…great for watching YouTube videos.

Definite DO.

Hey Look, a YouTube Video!

In a completely organic segue from the last segment, these last few weeks hanging around at Bradquarters has given me plenty of time to work on expanding my skill set, and one thing I´ve always liked doing but never consistently had the space on my schedule for is sitting down with the industry’s big thinkers and getting their unique angle on what we do. 

There are some people in this business with interesting ideas–we can be way more creative than we get credit for–and one of them is BJ Shacknowski, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer over at Vertafore. I got a few minutes of his time recently for a video interview in the latest ¨Brad´s Vlog¨ episode on my YouTube channel…if you have the time (that´s a joke, it´s the only thing we all have right now) I recommend you DO check it out.

Tuning Out

I don´t know about you, but I am just about done with the news for year.

You may know why.

It seems like so many outlets are focused on trying to grab attention with some ghastly figure or shocking footage rather than putting out actionable information…not that the media didn’t have a sickness for that long before we flipped the calendar to 2020, but this is the worst time for them to be at their worst and here we are. That’s why I made the decision about a week ago to cut the TV out of this conversation, DON´T let it bring that energy into your life.

Instead, I get my information and updates from here. No anchor histrionics, no breathless effort to get the worst news out first, just simple data and prediction models to help you make the best decisions in a strange time.

A New Perspective

Not heading down to my local watering hole for a few $11 drinks on a fairly regular basis has freed up some funds as well as plenty of time, so I decided to finally jump into a new hobby with both feet…check out my new drone!

The Mavic Mini puts precision control in palm of your hands with smartphone app integration as well as a low profile design that fits right in the palm of your–ah wait, just used that one–um, your pocket. Going outside just went from a definite DON´T to a (kinda) DO, what an investment.

The Last Word 

All right, that´s about it for this time around, but thanks as always for spending some time with me on this engaging edition of ¨Brad´s Blog¨, we might all have a little more time on our hands these days but I always appreciate yours. I´ll be back in your inbox before you know it, be great if you DO drop me an email before then!

The post Making the Most of It: Do´s and Dont´s first appeared on Archway Computer.

All of a sudden, agencies throughout North America are going remote. But as team members adapt to this new work environment, gaps in security become exposed – and the consequences of a breach could hurt you and your clients. 

Brad Ruben, President of Archway Computer, Inc.—an insurance IT firm that specializes in insurance agency security and remote access—shares critical tips that every agency principal and manager must attend to quickly:

• How to setup remote employees without causing damage
• Which scams agencies need to be aware of
• Security updates to keep your data safe

As working remotely becomes a necessity, the information Brad shares in this discussion has become a priority. Take note as Brad shares security tips for remote log-in access, which operating systems are most vulnerable, and more advice that will keep your data secure and your community protected. 

Presented by Agency Revolution, the Connected Insurance Podcast provides weekly opportunities for listeners to dive deep into the trends affecting insurance agents and brokers today and to gain proven strategies and tactics for agency growth. Our hosts facilitate thoughtful panels and 1:1 conversations with a variety of prominent thought leaders, with a focus on how to streamline and drive operational efficiency for your independent agency through the intelligent use of technology.

Episode Link

The post Protecting Your Data When Moving to a Remote Work Environment – Brad on The Connected Insurance Podcast first appeared on Archway Computer.

I’ve been holding on to this update for a while because I know it might come as a bit of a shock for those that have heard me talk up the device over the years, but here it is: I’ve officially left my trusty Chromebook in 2019.

(Surprise!) 

There’s an origin story behind this saga…you see, about 10 years ago I had this great laptop….huge screen, ran Windows 7, used it all the time. One day out of nowhere it presents me with a message offering me a chance to upgrade to Windows 8…gee whiz, what a great deal! Thanks Microsoft, you’ve always been great!

Those out there who were similarly suckered in by the famously flawed update might have heard a similar story to mine: 2 hours and 17 reboots after installing Windows 8, neither of my external monitors worked.

Frying my other office equipment is a dealbreaker, and so Windows and I took a break from our deal…I jumped ship to Chrome OS and rode the wave for about a decade…I figured hey, I’m not an insurance agent, I’m a geek. I can make this work.

And, for a long time, it did!

Don’t get me wrong, the Chromebook still a pretty good package for those who just need a no-frills point of access to the Internet, but recent changes to the OS (won’t bore you with the details) have brought frustration into the experience of late, and so my ever-wandering eye for tech eventually landed on a sweet new Windows Surface laptop…what can I say, it happens.

The fact is my days with Windows extend far back beyond my time championing Chrome, and after my first few weeks with my speedy new Surface I have to say it’s good to be back…15 inch screen and a docking station that doubles as a power hub for other USB-charging devices and of course, that sleek futuristic metallic finish make it very easy to feel good about my decision.

The price was right as well, so you long-time readers will also remember that’s always a bonus.

…But Wait, There’s More!

One great thing about this new laptop is that it comes standard with Windows Defender, which should definitely do the trick as far as keeping the home device protected. It’s also free, which is very nice. I wouldn’t rely on it for a business machine, but I wouldn’t necessarily commit to a paid anti-virus program subscription for a home PC either…seems a bit much, even for me.
 

Yet Another Microsoft Update

Speaking of Microsoft (I promise I didn’t get a job with them over the last week or so), I’m a fan of their recent move to take over Upwork and integrate it with LinkedIn. The initiative is aimed at giving the company the unprecedented ability to promote and tap into the remote work movement that is only going to get stronger as the New Roaring 20s roll on.

It only makes sense to combine one of the Internet’s foremost freelance hiring resources with the leading professional social media network–one of those, “I could have thought of that if I had 390 billion dollars” ideas–and having personally hired people from Upwork I can testify that the site offers access to talented individuals from all over the world.

Upwork even provides real time tracking of freelancer activity such as random screencaps and keystroke counting during directly billable hours so you can even know that they’re really doing the work…I actually don’t check it all that much, but I do want to occasionally make sure the guy I hired to manage Archway’s social media didn’t bill me 5 hours for his midday “Zumbo’s Just Desserts” binge. 2 episodes max, kid.
 

The Last (Microsoft) Word 

Well then,  I’ve got a brand new toy to play with a lot of important professional work tasks to complete so that just about should do it for this week’s engaging edition of “Brad’s Blog,” totally not brought to you by Microsoft! Thanks as always for making time in your busy routine for this weekly one-sided conversation…if you’ve got anything to share in return, my Outlook inbox is always open!

The post The Decision: Windows into Brad’s Future first appeared on Archway Computer.

Anyone who knows me knows I’m absolutely obsessed with good dental hygiene…for example, getting to brush and floss immediately after meals is one of the nicer perks of working from home. 

It’s not just that those old Cavity Creeps commercials got to me. There are a lot of good reasons to be diligent about your dental routine, and some go far deeper than a brilliant smile. Good oral hygiene has been directly linked to lowering your risk of cardiovascular problems. That’s right, something as simple as brushing and flossing your teeth regularly can lower your risk of scary sounding situations like atrial fibrillation and…*checks notes*…heart failure.

That’s right, it has been clinically proven that dental hygiene is actually serious as a heart attack.

And so, I do what I can to keep this handy human body of mine in the best possible condition…my personal favorite enhancement to the typical routine is this jet flosser by Waterpic. It’s portable, rechargeable, and has a water tank you can remove and clean. Sometimes I imagine I’m blasting bacteria out of there with an orbital laser, but that’s up to you…the results remain amazing either way.

There’s definitely a theme here: wherever technology and good dental hygiene meet, you can probably find me there…including at CES, where I was thrilled to learn that futuristic toothbrushes are A Thing now. Emerging tech disruptor Colgate introduced the smart brush to the world, with its optic sensor technology to detect biofilm buildup in the mouth and real time data tracking that builds a unique profile for the individual using it to build better technique.

I’m told I looked exactly like that heart-eye emoji the first time I saw the prototype.

It won’t hit drugstore shelves or Colgate Stores for a few months yet, but I’m sure you know you’ll hear about the smart brush again the moment I get my hands on it…so excited!
 

Outstanding Outreach

Man, all that dental hygiene geekery got me pretty pumped up…it’s about the same mindset I had to work myself into before doing a marathon phone session back in the old days. 

Of course, the call center has undergone a transformation in the last decade or so, but the importance of staying in personal contact with clients and prospects has never been higher for agencies like ours, and blueButler is a valuable resource in the customer retention game. 

blueButler gives you access to a powerful suite of tools to help monitor and guide your agency’s outreach. It can refine your sales and service practices by generating call campaign reminders as well as compiling and sharing call recordings that highlight the techniques of your top performers, ensuring every contact with your clientele is a winner. blueButler also integrates with some of the leading agency management systems, so it’s definitely worth a look.
 

It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday

Wait, you’re still hanging on to Windows 7? At this point, I’m actually kind of impressed, but seriously…it’s time. 
Microsoft is officially abandoning support for its’ 11 year old OS (frankly I’m surprised they kept it going this long), so unless your system being vulnerable to literally every type of malware to be released from next week until the end of time sounds good to you, it’s time to take that copy of Windows 7 behind the shed and say a tearful goodbye. 
*Psst…hey, if you’re really in a tight spot, a buddy of mine by the name of CNET might know where someone like yourself can procure a copy of Windows 10, absolutely gratis. I can’t promise anything, but it might work out for you if you have the right hardware.*

The Last Word

Well, that’s about all we have for this week! Thanks to all my loyal readers for taking time out of their busy routine for my weekly ramble, it means more than you know. I’ll be back in your inbox right on schedule in a week’s time give or take, but before I go…when was your last dental exam?
 

You knew that was coming.

The post Retention Revolutionized + Brushing Up on Tech first appeared on Archway Computer.

If you haven’t heard Windows 7 is going end of life on January 14, 2020. You can read about it here. But you have options. Many are using this as an opportunity to replace their computers. Some, depending on when you purchased your PC are entitled to a free upgrade. Others are paying to have their existing machines updated. 
One great way to go is to get rid of your PC’s all together and go with Amazon Web Services. If you do this your machine becomes a “dumb terminal.”
Finally Microsoft always has options to take your money and will be charging $50/year for continued security updates. 
If you would like the advice of Uncle Brad you can click here and schedule an appointment with me to talk. Don’t worry, we don’t sell any of these products – just my brilliance!
 

Views from AppliedNet 2019

In other news, this year’s AppliedNet was, as usual, well worth the trip. Being in the building as the latest developments in the industry emerge from the shadows of rumor into the brightest lights in the business is always a treat.

If you missed it, you can get a glimpse of the greatness to unfold by checking out my synopsis of the keynote speeches…it’s the next best thing to being in Vegas, kinda.
 

Tangible Regards

A physical card represents uncommon amounts of initiative and goodwill…it may be a relatively simple gesture, but the fact remains that someone took time out of their busy lives to address you and only you.  

Even though I’m often short on time, I’m still a believer in sending out greeting cards the old-fashioned way but may be short on time, and that’s why I like Postable. With Postable, you get designer cards addressed and mailed on your behalf, and you’ll get all the credit for what will surely be a rare treat for the recipient: seeing something worth opening in the snail mailbox.
 

In Shape, One App at a Time

If you ask me, you can never have enough workout apps…working out may almost never be fun, but your smartphone telling you how much progress you’ve made since last week sure can be.

Aaptiv is ideal for that role, delivering targeted guidance to achieve maximum results…whether you’re strengthening your core or improving your cardio, it might be provide exactly the digital push you need. You can even try it risk-free for 30 days by clicking this convenient link. 

The Last Word

Well then, that should just about do it for this exceptional edition of “Brad’s Blog!” As always, I want to thank you the reader for taking time out of your busy weekly routine to engage with my enthusiasm. I’ll be back around in about a week’s time, but if you want to have a compelling chat before then, my inbox will be as open this week as yours was today.

The post WIndows 7 Options, AppliedNet and Apps first appeared on Archway Computer.

If you’ll be strolling the streets of Sin City when AppliedNet comes to town, odds are you’ll be leaving the event fairly loaded down with business cards…which, if you’re anything like me, you will promptly misplace. That’s why I love using the ClusterCards app…just scan the card (or cards, it can do multiple simultaneously) and watch the magic of technology as all the data is transcribed and saved, no typing required. It’s essential for conventions.
 

Scheduled Check-In

While I’m on the subject of apps, another resource I regularly rely on is called Checklist. Full disclosure, the non-free version is a little annoying–sometimes less is more–but for creating and keeping track of all those little daily details that would otherwise just slip through the cracks, it’s easy to use and very helpful.
 

Winter Weight Gain Is Coming

The Halloween decorations are starting to pop up, so that means Thanksgiving is like, next week and all the big winter holidays are just a few days after that. Every holiday season it seems like I go into the new year sporting a couple extra pounds, but this time around I’m aiming to get ahead of the game by dropping a few before the festivities. 

If you’re also joining a gym to counteract seasonal weight gain in the coming months and don’t mind the finer things in fitness life, I’d suggest you give this a click…with Equinox locations in NYC, Texas, and across Northern Cali, there’s a good chance there’s somewhere swanky to sweat near you.

I totally get that going to the gym can take more effort than most can muster after a long day of adult life, so a little extra boost can go a long way in helping you power through your routine. I get mine from Metagenics, a carefully balanced multivitamin formulated to offer increased energy and overall vitality, which doesn’t make running any more fun but can make it possible in theory.
 
If motivation is more your issue, weight loss contests are an excellent way to give yourself something to strive for…I’m trying to organize a few folks at Team Archway into a pool, but if anyone out there in the world of inboxes wants to get in on this action it could certainly be arranged. Just email me.
 
Of course, anyone devoted to a healthy lifestyle knows that the numbers on the scale almost never tell the whole story. I believe the key to a life well lived is one lived in balance, and that’s why my favorite book on diet, exercise, and overall self-improvement is Body for Life: 12 Weeks to Mental and Physical Strength. 

The book speaks so clearly to me because it talks about the small everyday tweaks that make a healthier you without having to turn your life upside down, which is perfect because it would be a tragedy for me to have to live 100 years without the occasional trip to the steakhouse or extra helping of gluten-free mac and cheese.
 

Bose is Back on Top

As someone who works from practically anywhere, headphones are as essential an office supply for me as a calculator is for an engineer. 

I’ve come and gone from Bose products over the years as competition has brought the best out of all manufacturers, but they’ve claimed the crown again with their SoundSport Free Wireless Earphones. Bringing together water resistance and an improved Bluetooth antenna together with that renowned Bose sound delivers something close to perfection, and in this business they’re worth every penny.
 

The Last Word

All right then, that’ll just about do it for this week! Thanks as always for making time for this inspired installment of “Brad’s Blog”…I appreciate it so much that I’m giving my readers a chance to enter the iPhone 11 giveaway we’re running to celebrate AppliedNet Las Vegas! Just click here to throw your hat in the ring…you’ll certainly know if you’ve won by the time you’re reading this next week.

The post AppliedNet Vegas and Getting In Shape for The Season first appeared on Archway Computer.

It’s the weirdest thing, seems like electric scooters are taking over the world. All across the country, names like Lime and Bird are filling the streets with these zippy little conveyances which you just pick up at a charging point and leave…well, wherever. There’s even a site called scootermap.com where you can locate the nearest one to your current location.

In fact, collecting the things after folks have had their fun has become a competitive business in and of itself, but that’s a separate conversation. For a quick overview, think tow trucks.
Anyway I’m more of an Uber or Lyft guy if I’m going to travel a distance worth wheels, but for just tooling around town I admit they are a hoot to ride. Just be careful…the ones I’ve ridden can really move, getting up to over 25mph, so I imagine a spill at speed would not be as fun.

An Outlet for your Tech Desires

“WiFi-enabled power outlet” kinda just sounds like a jumble of tech words like in sci-fi movies where “space” or “quantum” gets added to normal items to make them sound cooler, but the actual product is pretty slick itself. This model is an essential for smart homes, making it easy to turn your appliances into connected devices with set schedules and custom settings as well as allowing integration with Alexa.

Who Shall Rate the Raters?

If you’ve been reading this newsletter for more than, oh, 2 weeks, you know that I buy my fair share of stuff on Amazon. One of my favorite things to do is read the reviews…always a treat to encounter a 1-star review that stems from not putting in the battery.

Naturally, 5-star reviews can be just as dubious and this video from the Wall Street Journal succinctly breaks down the BS so you don’t fall for an unreliable paid endorsement from someone who’s not even famous.

Still, there are those of us who are committed to creating a more informed marketplace by providing honest reviews…Trip Advisors, elite Yelpers, and the like. 

If you have long dreamed of helping perform this important public service but don’t really want to spend any cash doing it, you’re in luck: by registering with Amazon Vineyou can get access to free products in exchange for a review. It’s an easy way you can give back to the consumer community.

Digital Dexterity

So you think you’re a pretty quick typist, do ya? Well, I did too until I took a typing speed test at Ratatype…I have been sufficiently humbled. If you’re also in need of a reality check, you can head over to take the challenge or alternately you can take advantage of a typing tutor in case you still type with only your pointer fingers like some people I know.

The Last Word

All right, that will just about do it for this inspired installment of “Brad’s Blog!” I hope you’ve enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoy writing it. Thanks as always for taking the time to connect with my perspective, hope to be back in your inbox on schedule next week!

The post Fast Fingers and Speedy Scooters first appeared on Archway Computer.

There will always be a bit of that excited kid showing off a new toy on the schoolyard the very next day within my spirit, so I rarely write about a product that I haven’t had my hands on yet. Still, as someone who has an impossible time trying to be productive in noisy environments I’m so excited about the new noise canceling headphones from Bose I just can’t wait to share.

For years I’ve been standing by my trusty QC-35 headset (on sale this week at WalMartalong with other Father’s Day goodies) for its excellent noise management capabilities and unparalleled battery life, but according to some early reviews the upcoming 700 could be the new gold standard. At $400 they’re a bit pricey for some, but it is said that one of the most valuable things in the modern world is silence so to me they’re well worth the investment.

A More Stable Surface

The Microsoft Surface has had something of a rough ride since the debut of the line a couple of years back. Classic beta-test stuff plagued the early months of the release, which pretty much tanked consumer confidence in what should have been an absolute game-changer.

The Surface seems to be doing a little better now, all things considered…but when the most enthusiastic praise Consumer Reports can conjure up goes “reliability is now on par with most other laptop brands,” it may not quite be time to put the Surfacebook back on your wish list just yet…kind of a shame, it really is a slick setup.

Take It From Us

We never directly sell equipment–that would go directly against the independent spirit of Team Archway–but we’re happy to make recommendations…who doesn’t like telling other people what to do? If you’re interested in our opinions of some of the top names such as Dell, HP, and Lenovo, just click here for easy to read examination of what each has to offer.

iDeal for Your Nightstand

If you’re fully tied into the Apple ecosystem, this should be a useful little addition. The inexpensive 3 in 1 wireless charging station will quickly juice up your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods, and since it’s on Amazon, you can have it by the end of the week.

Man I love living in this era of human history.

The Last Word

Well, that should just about do it for this week! Thanks as always for not banishing my weekly rambles to the spam folder, I understand what a significant honor that is. I’ll be right back on schedule next week, but before then don’t forget to give dad a shout this weekend…the old man likes to feel special too, if only 3 times every 1000 days.

The post Bose Falls Even More Silent + Advice from Archway first appeared on Archway Computer.

In case those suspiciously well-targeted ads that have become part of most people’s Internet browsing experience don’t make it perfectly plain, everything you do online is tracked by Google. Either way, I make it a point to tell everyone that will stand still long enough.

If you’re curious to see just how much they know about you, Google does at least allow us the courtesy of reviewing our full user profile including search terms, sites visited, media shared, and other information…here’s where you can download yours. Forewarning: it’s a relatively large download, which says a lot about just how much data the ‘Net titan has access to and control of.

Proactive Preparation

A man with the wisdom to turn himself into a lightning rod and live to tell the tale once said “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” and so here at Archway we’re all about the proactive approach.

Security and compliance for your agency’s computer resources are at the top of the list when we’re talking about things that require contingency plans, and so I wanted to pass this link detailing what to do if you lose your office iPhone along to my fellow insurance industry fellows…you can all thank me later. And if you want to have us do a free security review of your computers click here

Digital Assistance for the Outdoor Kitchen

With all due respect to those who work in propane and propane accessories, any true grillmaster knows that solid fuel flames are the way to go. I use charcoal briquets, but everyone who has ever tried to get a fire started with them knows how difficult it can be without using enough lighter fluid to count as a seasoning agent.

Fortunately we live here in the future, and that means there are some pretty cool tech toys to help make the process easier. I plan to get plenty of use out of this nifty grill lighter I found on Amazon this grilling season, and if you really want to get your outdoor kitchen connected, the Weber iGrill Mini will send an alert to your smartphone when your grilltop goodies reach the perfect temperature. Finally once it’s time to clean that grill you might want to consider this robotic cleaner, the Grillbot.

The Last Word

All right, that should just about do it for the last week of May! I’m thinking about taking half a day and firing up the grill with this beautiful California weather, but thanks as always for taking the time to connect with “Brad’s Blog,” the year is flying by and I’m happy to see you’ve spent some of it with me.

The post Grilling Upgrades and the All-Seeing Eye of Google first appeared on Archway Computer.

In case you’re not familiar, Jeff Bezos has been writing an open letter to Amazon’s shareholders every year since its’ inception.

Since the mind behind the world’s number one retailer has pretty much demonstrated beyond doubt that he knows what he’s talking about, every edition of the letter is the subject of extensive analysis from similarly inspired individuals because perhaps nowhere else are his beliefs about business, technology, and leadership more extensively articulated than in the 44,000 or so words that make up the anthology.

That’s why the other day I attended a presentation from Steve Anderson, a bonafide industry legend, that spotlighted his perspective on the Bezos Letters.

I found his insight illuminating, and what really excited me coming away from the forum was that Steve is working on a book about the wisdom contained within the Letters and what anyone can take out of the way Amazon does things…you can pre-order it here, and I’m setting aside plenty of time to digest it, hopefully discuss it with you.

Taking Stock of TheInventory

The most valuable things in this business and this world are those that help others, and TheInventory.com is a great destination for finding unbeatable deals. They don’t sell anything themselves–well, I guess they enjoy the site traffic–but they have become the definitive word on the best products in multiple marketplaces in a very short time. If you’re in the market for an upgrade to your lifestyle, check out this listing of their top 10 products.

Slim Down Your System

It’s said that what you don’t pay for in cash you pay for in inconvenience, and bloatware is one of the best examples of this concept. Bloatware is all those extra programs and utilities you don’t need and might have a hard time deleting to free up space, and inexpensive PCs, tablets, and smartphones come absolutely infested with it.

It’s a tradeoff many are willing to make–after all, Amazon once released an device that was about half-price as long as you were willing to watch random ads forever and it sold quite well–but luckily, in many cases we just don’t have to any more. If you’re fed up with the popups on your PC, take a look at PCDecrapifier, which is exactly what it says on the tin.

Settling In with SimpliSafe

In the process of settling into my new home I’ve been checking out a few home security systems, and most of my research points to SimpliSafe being the best option.

Not only is it compatible with up to 4 cameras and offer features like motion detection and remote monitoring, it’s also affordable and easy to set up, both of which deeply appeal to my interests. They even offer refurbished systems for the same performance at an even more appealing price.

The Last Word

Well, Team Archway is going to be holding down the fort at Accelerate most of the week, but I’m glad I got some time to talk at you anyway! Thanks as always for making time in your week for an enlightening edition of “Brad’s Blog,” if you’re in Cincinnati give us a shout at the conference and if not, hey, maybe enter here to win something cool anyway!

The post The Bezos Letters and Faster PC’s first appeared on Archway Computer.

In case you weren’t aware (shame on you), Mother’s Day is coming up this week!

If it sort of snuck up on you this year, this feature from PC Mag details some of the best gifts for the tech-savvy mother in your life. My personal favorite is the Drop scale, which updates as you add ingredients. It can even adjust a recipe if you’re running low on something…whether she’s a great cook or just really likes to try, that’s sure to come in handy.

This Uber Delivers Too

Out on the streets, a certain San Francisco-based ridesharing company is about to run into some serious labor issues with a multi-city strike for higher wages looming over this week’s scheduled IPO, but here in the office Uber Conference gives us everything we need to make sure work goes a little more smoothly.

Uber Conference offers quick and easy chat and video calling with customers, clients, and coworkers, no download required. It also allows instant screen-sharing, so we can collaborate on projects from across the hall or across the country. Gotta love convenience.

Spend Smarter with Siftwallet

Half of the reason so many of us have multiple credit cards is to take advantage of those sweet, sweet benefits, right? A gas card here, a store card there, and you feel like you’re really working the system…but not so fast, my friend! Unless you’re usingSiftwallet to maximize your gains, you may just be seeing the tip of the iceberg.

Siftwallet is an app for iOS and Android that curates and tracks credit card benefits, allowing you to unlock rewards faster and more economically. It calculates the best credit card to use on each purchase, so you can make the most of price matching and  rental card discounts as well as strategically racking up those airline miles, all at the lowest possible rates.

Appointments Made Easy

Scheduling appointments can be a real hassle…at times, I’ve spent longer scheduling and organizing a meeting than actually interacting with the person. Thankfully, those days are long past thanks to TimeTrade.

TimeTrade allows you to quickly set up an appointment, so your customers can always connect with you at a time that works for both parties. You can even use my personal TimeTrade link to schedule a call with me to talk tech!

The Last Word

Fantastic, that will just about do it for the first full week of May! As always, I want to take a moment here at the end to thank all my readers for sticking with “Brad’s Blog” week after week, the feedback I get is so fulfilling and I’ve really met some great people through writing this newsletter. I’ll be back on schedule next time around, but until then CALL YOUR MOTHER!!!

The post Mother’s Day Upgrades and Saving with Siftwallet first appeared on Archway Computer.

If you were trying to get in touch with me this past Friday, I may not have immediately responded but I had a  really good reason for it: I was having my quinquennial colonoscopy (means every 5 years, thought learning something new would take some of the edge off this lead-in).

Fortunately I’m all clear, and although prep is still not a trip to Disneyland I have to saythe process has improved even in the last 5 years. It really could have been worse for a number of reasons…when I was in the recovery room afterward, I overheard other patients being informed that they would have to do the whole thing again because they had failed to finish their jug of prep solution before their appointment…basically, they cheated!Luckily I followed doctor’s orders to the letter, so I was able to decline the bonus colonoscopy…if you want proof that I really committed to getting this right the first time, here’s a shot of me with my outstanding patient award.

Ideal Eyewear for a Bright Future

If you gave that picture of me posing with the prep jug a click you might have taken note of my stylish new spectacles. I spend a lot of time using the computer in this line of work–heck, this entire timeline–and eye strain from gazing into the screen all day is becoming a widespread issue among us citizens of the future…”The Jetsons” glossed over that way back when.

I feel as though I was born a bit too early to be in the first epidemic of Computer Vision Syndrome sufferers, and so I decided to take action. The new glasses are designed to minimize the damage, treated with an anti-reflective coating that eliminates glare and cuts down on the amount of blue light that gets through…naturally, I found them on Amazon.

Gmail Goes to Work

Like so many of us, I use Gmail as my primary personal email provider…hey, when you’re the best, you’re the best. However, it’s not as peerless for professional use, especially for insurance agencies. Integration issues with the major management system providers run rampant, and it can be less than intuitive to use with the default settings.

Still, Gmail so familiar by now that people are looking to find every possible workaround, and I recently caught wind of this new Chrome extension that creates a much cleaner inbox than the default settings so at least it’s not a total mess. I supposewho better to fix Gmail than its former lead designer…if it’s good enough for him, it should serve your purposes as well.

Thanos Takes Over the Internet

If you’re a geek like me or have friends who are, by now you’ve either seen the latest Avengers movie or had it spoiled for you by some loser on the Internet.

In any event, this little easter egg from Google outdoes even their usual standard for imaginative delight…Google the word “Thanos,” then click the big golden glove at the right side of the screen and watch what happens. You don’t even have to be a fan of comic books or the 2,486 movies they have spawned in the last few years to appreciate that little visual treat.

The Last Word

Well then, that will just about do it for this week. As always, I want to thank my loyal readers for continuing to make “Brad’s Blog” a part of your week, it means a lot to me that so many people have not added my email address to their spam folder yet. I’ll be back around right on schedule next week, but until then remember to take a break from the computer screen every so often…you’re finished reading this, so now seems like a perfect time.

The post Clean Colon – Happy Eyes – Better Gmail first appeared on Archway Computer.

Remote work is exploding in popularity…let’s be honest, there’s really no reason for some of your employees to be onsite full-time. Along with helping save on office space, forming an offsite team also allows you to attract more new talent that may be happier and therefore more productive outside a traditional workplace environment.

Naturally, ensuring every member of your team stays on the same page of the playbook gets a bit trickier when they are not right down the hall for most of their waking hours, making project management utilities like Wrike essential in organizations of today.

Wrike tracks tasks and generates emails at every step of the process, so everyone knows exactly what they have to do and exactly when they have to do it. It strikes that delicate balance between flexibility and functionality that will become more essential as the way we work continues to evolve.

You Got to Know When to Hold ‘Em…

To the surprise of almost no one, Samsung is having some issues with their new foldable phone. You may remember that I called the Galaxy Fold something of a beta test unit when it was first announced, and right on cue the screens are going haywire en masse.If you’re one of the early adopters who just couldn’t wait to show off your origami smartphone, the good news is that Samsung is going to try to make it right. Hey, at least they don’t explode this time.

Summer is Coming

It’s almost summer, and that means it’s almost time to get the grill started. For me, there’s something magical about cooking outdoors…probably goes back to when the first supermonkey boldly disregarded the advice of his ancestors–fire bad–to discover that many foods tasted much better when placed near an open flame for a while.

Anyway, I’m looking forward to a long season of camping trips and tailgates, and I think I’ve found the perfect portable partner for the pursuit. This mobile grill has matchless lighting and two independent burners, making it easy to fire up some fish by the lake or become the most popular person in the parking lot.

For at-home grilling, a combination grill-smoker is essential equipment, at least that’s what my friends in Texas tell me. (They are also happy to tell me about Texas at every available opportunity.) In any event I am a big fan of brisket, so I think I’ll be addingthis option from Amazon to my outdoor kitchen this year…with all due respect to the propane industry and the associated accessories market, gotta love that charcoal flavor.

While we’re on the subject, I know we exhibit a fair selection of silliness in this space, but this might be one of the dumber things I’ve shared here. In case you needed this in your life, here’s a video of the Zuck smoking meats in song. It may be a digitally altered remix, but honestly it’s more personality than he’s ever shown before.

Lost in Translation

Of course, when I’m not serving up sizzling steaks and shrimp outside, I’m often staring at some screen inside, and I’ve recently come across something really worthwhile to watch. HUGE in France centers on a French comedian father attempting to reconnect with his son in America while also dealing with the reality that his celebrity card is only valid in Europe…I feel his pain, the highs from my recent television appearance were dizzying.

The Last Word

Well, that will just about do it for this week! Thanks as always for making time in your schedule for the latest inspired installment of “Brad’s Blog!” I’ll be back on schedule next time–I hope–but until then here’s to the most productive week possible!

The post The Changing Face of the Workplace first appeared on Archway Computer.

I’ve always thought that being a big shot must be nice…public spotlight, friends in high places to handle sticky situations…and now that I’ve had a taste of the life, I know it for a fact.

You see, I’ve talked before about the billing issues at my former home in the wake of the Malibu fires, namely that service provider Frontier Communications kept sending me invoices despite the fact that my home (and all their equipment) had been destroyed.

That’s why I decided to get the local NBC I-Team involved, and that’s when I began to get the star treatment. Not only did I get to make my big TV debut, but was Frontier a lot more open to resolving the issue with a bit of pressure from the media…surprise, surprise.

Beyond the Body

We the Species are doing some interesting things with tech these days…what if I told you that we are the robots we’ve been waiting for since the 60s or so? I recently read about a cybernetic program that allowed scientists to attach sensors to a person in one room and have him control a mechanical arm in another using only his brain waves.

It might sound like science fiction but believe me, it’s here and it’s happening. What the coming integration of man and machine means for our society remains to be seen, and honestly it’s just a bit weird for me to imagine being part robot, but regardless of your feelings on the subject, you have to admit it’s pretty darn cool.

Free Photoshop for All

It seems like you can turn anything into anything else using Adobe Photoshop…if we’re not already at this point, I feel as though it will be nearly impossible to distinguish a doctored image or video from an untouched picture or footage in the very near future. Strange times.

Point is the software is powerful, which is why the full version is expensive, but it includes a bunch of tools that only advanced users would take advantage of. For my simpler needs I like Photoshop Express…not only does it come in mobile and desktop versions, it’s free, which sold me.

Micro(soft)Management

While we’re on the topic of useful free apps, here’s a standout from Microsoft. ToDoallows users to keep their day-to-day lives neatly organized, using an intuitive interface to help you track work tasks, grocery lists, workout plans, and even shows and movies to watch because that’s just as important.

The Last Word

Well, hope this made up for missing last week! Thanks as always for joining us on another educational edition of “Brad’s Blog!” I’ll be back on schedule next week–that is, if you’ll have me–but if you want to drop me a line before then, please don’t be shy!

The post Free Photoshop and I-Team to the Rescue first appeared on Archway Computer.

It’s the end of March and that means it’s time to visit a familar place: last in my bracket pool. Another 50 bucks up in smoke day 1. I’m not sure how it happens year after year, but with my bracket most thoroughly busted I guess it’s only appropriate for this former UCLA Bruin to get inspired by his alma mater’s performance on the court this year and just give up.

Sorry guys, better luck next year.

In the meantime at least we’re getting some pretty stellar hardwood action, as anyone who watched Duke just barely scrape by a very game UCF squad bore witness to one heck of an athletic exhibition.

There’s a reason why the Tournament  is one of the highest profile sporting events on the calendar…the reason why these players aren’t paid something for the spectacle they create is less clear.

The Last Wallet

Although it may be a little lighter after the first few games of March Madness, I officially have the coolest wallet I’ve ever had…no, not Samuel L. Jackson’s billfold from “Pulp Fiction,” this sleek and streamlined beauty known as the Ridge Wallet. It just goes right along with all the other sculpted minimalistic portables I like to fill my life with.

I got mine in Carbon Fiber, but it comes in similarly indestructible materials such as titanium and anodized aluminum as well as a range of colors….heck, it might be the last wallet I ever buy with the lifetime guarantee the company offers.

Foresight for Seats

Getting airline tickets for a great price is a delicate dance…do you buy your tickets a year in advance when no one else is even thinking about that particular flight, or do you show up to the airport and gamble on a cheap standby ticket?

Like most things in life, the answer is somewhere between the extremes, and this Lifehacker piece suggests the ideal window of opportunity comes about 79 days before takeoff.

The Portable Photo Booth

If you’re as big on selfies as some of the kids at the office are, you’ll love the HP Sprocket Plus.

This pocket-size wireless photo printer (man, did you ever think you’d hear that in the days of Polaroid?) has a Bluetooth-driven app that connects with multiple devices so it’s a hit at events, and outdoes the competition by pumping up the printouts from the more common 2” x 3” size to a visibly larger 2.3” x 3.4” frame. At $129, it’s well worth purchasing for your next party.

The Last Word

All right, that’s just about all we have this week! Thanks as always for starting your week off with another enthralling edition of “Brad’s Blog!” I’ll be back on schedule next week, but before then be sure to update your version of Google Chrome if you haven’t yet…didn’t we just talk about this last week?

The post Breakable Brackets vs. the Unbreakable Wallet first appeared on Archway Computer.

Microsoft has been absolutely nailing its online productivity suite for years now, and it’s more powerful than ever before. 

How powerful, you ask? So much so that even the company itself acknowledges its traditional desktop Office as an inferior product, sort of like when you’re at the movies and the guy at the concession stand wonders aloud what kind of sucker buys a medium when a large is 35 cents more.

In any case, many people are surprised to discover just how much you can do with Office 365. I recently had a prospect that had been somehow convinced that they needed to buy a server just to have control over their email, and another who is thinking about hosting their email with their IT provider, both of which are bad ideas for reasons we went over before. 

What we haven’t discussed yet is that Office 365 provides solutions to both issues. That’s right, part of the Office 365 package is the connected version of Outlook, which provides a range of features including secure encryption for a fraction of what it costs to maintain an onsite server.

Another part of the package is that it’s delivered by Microsoft, so you never have to worry about bush league stuff like having one guy throwing everything into chaos by leave the company or having the entire system wiped by some garage hacker.

The Gift and The Curse

Like nuclear energy and non biodegradable plastic, the Internet is simultaneously one of the best and worst innovations ever devised by the human mind…which direction any of these go in is based almost entirely on how is handled by those who come into contact with it.

YouTube in particular shows both types of potential involved with putting the sum total of civilization’s knowledge at the fingertips of any toddler, and I’m sure I don’t have to tell the parents out there what kind of stuff is just floating around waiting to reveal itself with a single curious click.

Fortunately, there are reliable methods of limiting access to videos by setting parental controls, and this article goes into detail about putting them in place.

Theater of the Mind

There’s something about being educated and entertained at the same time that really helps the information stick. That’s why I love a well done documentary, and if you enjoy filling in dull moments at work by learning something new, this CNET feature on the best Netflix documentaries should get you through the week at least.

Dashing through the Snow

The Iditarod started off this week, and I have to say it always piques my interest. Perhaps it’s my inner 8-year-old adventurer that loves the idea of a team of huskies and their guide working as a team to brave the elements on a speed run through the frozen white north…nope, now that I described it again it still sounds cool to Adult Brad.
Anyway, I’m going to follow along with the race again this year as I usually do, and if you’d like to join me why not peek in on the live stream? It’s another perfectly valid way to kill time, and is even appropriate for children of all ages.
 

The Last Word

Well, that’ll just about wrap up the first “Brad’s Blog” of March, so thanks as always for making space in your schedule for the latest enthusiastic edition! I’ll be right back on schedule next time around, but if you have something you feel I need to share with the class before then, please don’t be shy about shooting me an email.

The post Office 365 Marches On first appeared on Archway Computer.

Hey, it’s not that I never use profanity–just ask my dog Dante if I’ve ever dropped the F-bomb after yet another cord-chewing—but for me, it has a time and place and neither is in a newsletter like this one.

I was recently reading a piece produced by another blogger that was absolutely laced with four-letter words that I really didn’t feel were necessary to get the point across and honestly detracted a bit from the message.

In any event, a lot of the information presented was sound, and since I saw so much potential in his perspective I raised my concern to him in an email.

Naturally they brushed me off, claiming authenticity and that many marketing gurus use profanity…which is true I suppose, but I think it’s kind of a cheap way to stand out. Kind of like the kid in your kindergarten class who used to flip their eyelids inside-out for attention.

I did stop to wonder if I was just being uptight about the whole thing, but that was before I stumbled upon Michael Hyatt’s thoughts on the matter, which are laid out in logical fashion to make a salient point: it could be costing you a lot of blanking money.

Samsung’s Innovation Unfolds

It seems like it’s been forever since there’s been any innovation in the smartphone space, the basic black or silver rectangle popularized by the iPhone way back in 2006 is essentially what 90 percent of phones look like to this day.

That’s why the tech world is abuzz after the announcement of the Galaxy Fold, a cleverly named addition to Samsung’s flagship line of devices that transforms from the familiar smartphone profile to a small tablet.

I see what they were going for here since the hybrid laptop-tablet is a pretty slick setup that has become broadly popular over the last few years, but in my opinion this is more of a first step than a finished product: the form factor needs tweaking and I can envision all kinds of problems finding a suitable case to protect multiple vulnerable screens instead of just the one people can barely keep intact.

Still it’s truly refreshing to see a major company actually trying to innovate instead of rolling out slight performance upgrades every 6 months, so I’m excited to see what effect this potential next evolution in the world of smartphones will have on the market.

At the very least I hope the inevitable competition pushes the prices down…hard to justify dropping 2k on what amounts to a public beta test.

Convenience at Costco

I’m the proud owner of a Costco card, meaning about twice a month I head down to my local superstore for a loaf of gluten-free bread and leave with a receipt as long as my arm. It’s something of a love-hate relationship, but a point that goes solidly in the “love” category is their photo printing service, which is ready to roll in about as much time as it takes to run a lap around the sample booths.

The Last Word

This is typically the part where I cheerfully sign off, but before I go I want to take some time to acknowledge all the kind words you readers have sent me regarding the newsletter.

It really means a lot to me that people appreciate my angle on this brave new world in which we live, even to the point of contributing new topics. It’s rewarding to be able to exchange inspired insights with like-minded people.

Being able to interact with fine folks such as yourselves on a regular basis is pretty much priceless, but in case you were looking to put a number on it I could really use a new pair of sunglasses, specifically this pair of wearable speakers from Bose.

It was worth a shot.

In all seriousness I really enjoy being able to do this every week, and I can only hope you have as much fun reading this as I do writing it. Thanks as always for taking the time, here’s to a productive and fulfilling week ahead!

The post Four-Letter Wisdom and Skipping the Galaxy Fold first appeared on Archway Computer.

Last week I passed on some information on managing saved passwords in your browser for the sake of convenience, but this week I must share some knowledge shared with me by a particularly astute reader who may or may not have some background in…ahem…alternative data allocation techniques.

You see, it was brought to my attention by this individual (or group or AI) that saving passwords in your browser makes them ripe for the picking by cybercriminals. In fact their are apps for that. You can read about it here. 

Advanced Protocol

VoIP isn’t a product we sell here at Archway, but we certainly make frequent use of it. One of the phone systems many of our agents find most effective comes from The Kotter Group and is known as Bridge.

Bridge is a fully featured communication suite with all the bells and whistles, call forwarding, custom hold music, unlimited call queues, you name it. It also integrates with many popular AMS options, which is almost as important as allowing custom hold music.

Money and Power

With apologies to the eastern half of the country, this cold weather we’re getting in Southern California is getting to be unbearable.

We use a lot more electricity when it’s cold out for obvious reasons like hot coffee and Hulu, and if you’ve ever been curious about the amount of juice your appliances use in a given amount of time, this electricity monitor I found on Amazon is just great.

It connects to your appliance of choice and tracks usage as well as calculating expenses by the day, week, month, or year. One day soon I can envision a world in which you can ask Alexa how much electricity the devices she manages collectively use, which may become an awkward conversation.

The Last Word

Well, that’s about it for me this week, but before I go I wanted to show everyone that I am a man of my word, last or otherwise.

If you’ll recall, I lost a number of bets on the Super Bowl a little over a week ago, and so instead of wearing Patriots gear until well past the 4th of July, I have decided to consume my crow in one heaping helping in the form of a video extolling the greatness of Tom Brady, the single greatest man to ever bestride our humble planet.

I very much enjoyed making it of my own free will, and I think my unbridled enthusiasm for the project shines through.

Now that that unpleasantness is over I suppose there’s nothing to do but sign off, here’s to a happier ending next time around!

The post Enhanced VoIP and Password Protection and Brad eats Crow! first appeared on Archway Computer.

Well, if there’s one positive thing to be said about the Super Bowl, it’s “at least we didn’t go to the game”…as a particularly apt meme quipped, imagine buying a $7,000 ticket (plus airfare and accommodations) to see a Maroon 5 concert and a punting competition.

Attendees didn’t even get be creeped out by watching Alexa turn off the planet’s power grid by accident, which seems a shame.

Sure, Sunday’s decisive contest unfolded with all the excitement of a lower-tier high school football matchup, with both offenses struggling to muster the slightest bit of cohesion, but when it was all said and done the Patriots came out on top and my daughter was happy…even more so with her upcoming birthday not overshadowed by an exciting game.

Even so, someone at our party may or may not have napped through the 3rd quarter.

In any event, it’s hard not to congratulate the Patriots on some level…making an entire professional sports league monotonous and predictable over multiple decades is no easy task, and hasn’t been accomplished in the Northeast since that time the Celtics won the championship for 13 years straight. (Not a joke, can you imagine??)

I will have ample time to reflect on their greatness when I’m wearing various Patriots gear for the next month or so after losing all the bets…should be fun getting drawn into unmerited conversations about Tom Brady with total strangers.

Reclaiming Our Time

While we’re discussing word on the street, I’ve been hearing a lot about a product called Quiker and finally decided to give it a try.

Quiker is aimed at streamlining some of the more tedious aspects of running an agency…most of our clients staff routinely spends a majority of their time switching back and forth between Outlook and the agency management system, a process so enjoyable a friend rightly refers to it as “soul-sucking activities.”

In a welcome change of pace, Quiker works directly with AMS-360 to automatically document and categorize customer interactions. In fact, the site claims that using the inexpensive software can save an agency up to $7,000 yearly in lost time, not to mention untold mental wear and tear. It’s like not going to this year’s Super Bowl.

Laptops for Less

If you’re looking for a new laptop at a great price, you’ll find this next segment a lot more interesting than this year’s Supe–okay, I’ll stop. Seriously, I found this cheap Chromebook on Amazon for a friend and he absolutely loves it…a lot of bang for about 200 bucks. If you want some more options to consider, check out this CNET feature on 2019’s top picks for bargain-conscious tech shoppers.

Google Chrome Remembers

Creating passwords for your various accounts involves a delicate balance. By now we all know the dangers of a truly lazy choice like “password,” but I’m sure I’m not the first person to devise a password so secure that not even I can crack it…fine when Chrome has saved it for later use, less so when I have to enter it on another computer or in a linked app.

Fortunately, Google has thought of this.

If you, like me, don’t stand a chance in heck at mentally recording several random strings of letters, numbers, and characters to enter at a moment’s notice, there is a way to bring them up on demand as long as you’re logged in.

All you have to do is click on the three vertical dots in the upper right corner of the screen, go to settings, and then access the “passwords” tab, where an eyeball can reveal all to you. Got it? No? Well, here’s a little video that might help.

The Last Word

All right sports fans, that should wrap things up for this week! Thanks as always for making time in your regular routine for another illuminating installment of “Brad’s Blog!” I’ll be right back in your inbox on schedule next time around, here’s to another strong week for us geeks!

The post Cheap Laptops, An App Named Quiker , Life Without Football first appeared on Archway Computer.

Sometimes I just sit and marvel about how great it must be to have a modern-day childhood. 10 year old me would have walked across a field of Lego barefoot just to lay hands on a smartphone, and goodness knows how much mischief I could have gotten into with a camera drone at my disposal.

Even educational toys blow anything from when I was growing up clear out of the water…in my day the Erector set was the gold standard for aspiring geniuses like me, but here in 2018 kids can design a lot more than toy rockets and military bases.With the Kano Computer Kit Touch, kids can the learn basic coding skills that will become essential in coming years, but that can deliver countless hours of fun today between making art and hacking Minecraft to create custom builds. There may have never been a better time to be a kid…heck, I kinda want to play around with one myself just to see what it can do.

Social Networking that Works

The 2018 fire season turned out to be the worst on record throughout California, and after my house burnt down last month the best information I received wasn’t through the news and it sure wasn’t through the government. Instead I got some of the most critical updates through an app known as Nextdoor.

Nextdoor is like a hyper-localized version of Facebook that communities can use to seek and share information about where they live, and if there’s an insurance agent reading this that is not signed up in their market, that’s something you need to fix right away. Just recently I referred a Nextdoor member in my area who I hadn’t yet met in person to a local agency…that´s social networking as it should be.

During the fires in Malibu the best information I received was not through the government but through an App called Nextdoor – it’s like a hyper local version of Facebook and you as insurance agents should be on it and involved – I recently referred a Nextdoor pal that I’ve never met to an agency in my area.
 

An Echo in Your Dreams

I´m not entirely sold on the idea of an Amazon Echo in our bedroom–Alexa is, in fact, always listening–but if you´re going to do it, better sleep is a pretty good reason to do it.

Among the many little conveniences promised by the Echo is the sleep and relaxation skill that allows it to do things like keep your room at the perfect temperature for slumber and drown out all those little disturbances that keep you awake with relaxing white noise.
 

´Tis Better to Give Tech

Still looking for the perfect gift for that office gift exchange or that nephew you never see? CNET has just what you need...this handy little roundup highlights the top tech gifts, providing options for well-intentioned cheapskates like me as well as lavishly generous individuals like you.
 

The Last Word

All right then, that should do it for this week! Thanks as always for making time in your schedule for another imaginative installment of ¨Brad´s Blog!¨ I´ll be back in your inbox in just a few days, which is more than enough time for you to start thinking about what to get me this year.

The post Giving the Gift of Geek first appeared on Archway Computer.

You´ll never catch me saying that Chicago isn’t one of the greatest cities in this coast-to-coast country of ours…spectacular sights, fantastic food, and as an aesthetic note, what just might be the spiffiest city flag in America.

What an incredible place to find yourself for a week or so…except, of course, for the December chill…the kind of cold that hurts, just a little.

As a SoCal native I probably won’t be needing this coat back at home pretty much, but to call it a lifesaver is only exaggerating about 20 percent. 

It was worth every penny despite the fact that I might not wear it again for months, and  I would absolutely recommend it to anyone living in a climate that actually features winter. You can check out our pics here.

A New Challenger Appears!

I’ve long had my choice of headphone (coincidentally, my dog’s favorite kind to chew) but checking out some of the early buzz for this set from Sony has me seriously considering other options.

If you didn’t happen to give that link above a click, it’s a piece from CNET with the headline ¨Sony WH-1000XM3 finally surpasses Bose as best noise-canceling headphone,¨ which is big talk from where I’m sitting.

With a redesigned headband and reduced weight in the speakers, apparently the latest from Sony is not only more comfortable, but cranks out better sound.

Also gotta love the upgrade from Micro USB to USB-C charging, delivering a quick charge mode that rewards 10 minutes of patience with 5 hours of playback and…you know what, it´s already in my Amazon shopping cart.
 

Paging Dr. Alexa?

Speaking of Amazon, it seems like they’re getting their generally capable fingers into everything. People were surprised enough when the online retailer decided to be Netflix, let alone when they bought out Whole Foods to give them a brick and mortar presence for their Amazon Fresh service.

Well, most people were surprised…John Doerr wasn’t. You see, John here was an investor in Amazon when it was just an online bookstore (which gives him a certain amount of credibility for his foresight off the bat), but accurately predicted the Whole Foods takeover well in advance.

His latest look into the magic 8-ball tells him that his buddy Jeff–yes, of course that Jeff–is looking at starting up a healthcare service, which makes sense based on the amount of information they must have on their customer base.

In this CNBC feature, Doerr says he expects tech giants to have the same effect on healthcare as they did advertisement, which is exciting and unsettling in equal measure.
 

It´s The Thought That Counts

Despite my meticulous approach to selecting electronics and peripherals, I’m really not all that hard to please…just give me a little something special and I´ll sing your praises

For example, I prefer Uber Conference for client communications not only for its array of features and easy to use interface–who doesn’t have that–but for its hilarious hold music.

I also stay loyal to Screenleap among the dozens of perfectly capable screen sharing software solutions out there…sure, there are a few places you can get download-free screen sharing on demand, but how many similar utilities will let you do it for free? That’s right, sometimes it’s the little things.
 

The Last Word

Well then, that was certainly a fulfilling week in the world of tomorrow. Thanks as always for joining us for another intriguing installment of ¨Brad´s Blog,¨ doing this is one of the consistent highlights of my week and I´m so fortunate to have you share it with me.

I’ll be back on schedule next time around, don´t be shy about shooting me an email if there´s something that gets your geek going in the meantime!

The post Amazon: Your next health insurance company first appeared on Archway Computer.

Recovering from the fire is going about as well as can be expected, things are slowly getting back to normal.

After getting a new place, I´ve even been able to turn my attention to everyday concerns like the mail. USPS has finally gone digital, rolling out an Informed Delivery service in many test markets nationwide.

With Informed Delivery, the outside of your deliveries are scanned and sent to you the morning before they arrive, so if you have a big insurance check coming that day you get a preview.

Informed Delivery isn’t available everywhere in the country right now (you can check here to see if it has come to your area yet) but it’s a really nifty feature and best of all it’s absolutely free.

Convenient Client Contact

If you plan to be a successful agency, staying in constant contact with your clients must be a core part of your game plan. We like Simpltxt for the task…a 30 second sign-up process gets you access to a fully integrated service that lets your employees send messages to your customers anytime.
 

All you need is the recipient’s mobile number to get features like automatic correspondence tracking and message archiving, and since everything is associated with the same phone number, your customers don’t have to have your entire staff saved in their contacts.
 

Alexa, Augmented

Another thing I’ve managed to reestablish early in the rebuild is my relationship with Alexa.

That´s why I´m really getting a lot out of this Amazon-enabled Polk Audio sound bar. The sound quality is pretty darn good for a unit that doesn’t promise full surround sound, and the price is right…but here, don´t take my word for it.

Instead, check out this video of a crazy guy describing why he likes it, it would have convinced me if I didn’t already own one.
 

The Last Word

Well, I have some phone calls to make so I won´t keep you much longer, but thanks as always for making ´Brad´s Blog¨an essential part of your weekly routine. I shall return to your inbox in a few days time–if, of course, you will have me–but until then, remember that your success is always proportionate to the number of people you serve and how well you serve them.

The post USPS Joins the 21st Century and SimplTxt first appeared on Archway Computer.

It’s a question I hear all the time…should we attach everything to the agency management system or not? Sure, get the most you can out of the solution you choose–I get it, software and subscriptions can get expensive fast for a small agency–but as a tech genius once said, do we really need to attach every cert we issue to the system?

If you’re asking me, the answer is no…at least, not if you’re using the right tools. We use Office-365 along with the tamper-proof archiving that Barracuda Essentialsprovides. With Barracuda Essentials, important emails are automatically indexed through retention policies you set, and can even be accessed when email services are unavailable with the mobile app. It’s like a file cabinet that doesn’t weigh 400 pounds and take a solid hour to search through.

Lazy or Clean: A False Choice

You might be surprised what you can throw in the washing machine. I learned browsing HGTV.com last week that everything from fabric car floor covers and plastic shower curtains to backpacks and yoga mats can just be tossed into the mix on laundry day. Just toss them in on low to medium heat depending on how much plastic is involved and voila, just like new.

Also, while we’re on the topic of domestic duties, one of the best things about the future in which we live is that we’ll probably be doing less of them.The Roomba has come a long way from the near-novelty it once was, with the latest version incorporating intelligent home mapping so you can choose which rooms get cleaned and when along with automatic bin disposal that automatically dumps the sweepings into a disposable bag for weeks at a time.

If they teach this thing to wash dishes and scrub tile, I’m never cleaning anything besides myself again.

Talent Borrows, Genius Steals

When I present at user groups one of my favorite jokes to lead with is “I see you couldn’t get Steve Anderson.” He’s earned a lot of respect from me for his takes over the years and I continue to gain a lot from his perspective.

This piece on why Google’s investment in Applied Systems is good for all involved–that includes you and me–is a worthy read, and you might want to subscribe to his podcast The Digital Broker as well. As the old saw goes, take it from someone who knows.

The Last Word

Well, it’s time to get the last fully productive month of the year off to a strong start, so I guess I’ll let you go now. Thanks as always for making the time for this weekly geekly. I’ll be back in your inbox right on schedule with fresh rephrasings of Steve Anderson’s thoughts. Have a great week everyone!

The post Smart Streamlining Your Agency and the Source of My Savvy first appeared on Archway Computer.

Part of the reason that Apple can claim to produce the official lifestyle devices of planet Earth is their consistent innovation with the iOS system.

The latest iteration, iOS 12, boasts features that make using it more fun–the new Photo search functionality is stellar–along with additions you won’t know how you lived without before, like a “find my parked car“ feature. Entire seasons of Seinfeld could be wiped away with the simple presence of an iPhone.

Say what you want about their marketing (or dedicated iOS fans such as myself), the fact is that overall, Apple has done a better job that anyone else in the industry at tailoring their products to the demands of the consumer. Mostly.

Anyway, here’s a piece from Lifehacker spotlighting more of the most noteworthy upgrades with iOS 12.

Fitness Model

Just about all of us are looking to be in the best shape possible, but do we really know how healthy we are? Sure, we can tell whether those really nice pants we bought a few years ago still fit or not, but there’s more to a clear picture of your overall health than what’s on the bathroom scale.

The intriguingly-named Naked app goes a little deeper, allowing you to visualize your progress with a fitness routine as it unfolds. Naked works by creating a 3D model of your body, providing information such as body fat percentage as well as side-by-side before and after comparisons to help you stay motivated and reach your goals faster.

Seize the Night

By now just about everyone knows that almost no one is getting enough restful slumber on a nightly basis, and your bed could be contributing to the issue more than you realize.

From lack of energy and focus to back pain and lapses in memory, poor sleep caused by a lackluster mattress can have a profound effect on your quality of life. I’m a huge believer in adequate rest being a core factor in a life well-lived, and so I’ve spent more than my share of time on this site.

Sleep Like The Dead provides an index of unbiased reviews on bedding products including mattresses, pillows, bedding, white noise machines, and other essentials to make that ⅓ of your life pass by more smoothly.
 

Wave of the Future

Every so often something comes along that reminds me that we just might be on a path to the future I envisioned as a kid–you know, space buses and food printers and such–and the Jetfoiler is definitely one of those products.

In case you didn’t hear me gush about it the first time or just need a reminder of how awesome it is, it is a self-propelled electric surfboard. I will now provide a space for you to read those last four words again.

Even the legends of the old guard are excited about the new toy sure to hit shores around the world in the coming years. I managed to capture some footage of champion big wave surfer Laird Hamilton riding one, and although you will probably never be as good at him at it I bet you’ll have as much fun as it looks like he is.

The Last Word

Right then, that should certainly do it for this week! Thanks as always for making time so early in your week to check out this inspired installment of “Brad’s Blog!“ Have a productive week and remember, your kids’ candy is legally yours.

The post A Balanced Lifestyle: Sleep Tech and Electric Surfboards first appeared on Archway Computer.

Between the event itself and getting a taste of the host city, AppliedNet is usually one of the better weeks on my yearly calendar.  Did I mention we are giving away an iPhone X at the conference? And you can enter here even if you won’t be at the show.

Since this year the event is set to emanate from Nashville a big chunk of my off-the-clock time will be spent licking my fingers…oh yes, I am going to eat a LOT of BBQ during my stay in Music City, and Thrillist was kind enough to assist me in this endeavour with this “best of” feature.

Wearable Wares Awareness

I’ve been wearing the new Apple Watch for a while now and while I was pretty much sold immediately on the new screen size and upgrades for everything from speakers to sensors, the possibilities with this iPhone XS I recently got my hands on are even more exciting.

Check out this piece from The Verge detailing why now is such an exciting time to be wearing a watch.

A Signature Touch

Email signatures are a big deal in this business…all of the most critical contact information delivered directly to the connecting client along with key tracking information that can help you tailor your message to your audience. Perfect.

Whether you want to present a cohesive company-wide brand or put your personal stamp on every outgoing message, the shiny digital future in which we live makes it easier than ever (and often free!) to do.

The Last Word

Well, I have a flight into Nashville International to catch, but before I pack up my BBQ bib I want to thank everyone for not sending me to the spam folder for another week!

The next inspired installment should arrive right on schedule, but before then I’d love to see your friendly face at AppliedNet Nashville (or in the slick new signature of any email you want to send me in the meantime)!

The post AppliedNet Nashville: Come Hungry win an iPhone X first appeared on Archway Computer.

The aftermath of Hurricane Florence continues to affect residents of several states, with areas of the various communities still feeling the affects of severe flooding. The hurricane left over half a million homes without power and it will continue to be a long recovery process.

If you are looking for a relief organization to support in times like these and in the future you might want to consider Operation BBQ Relief. Founded by competition BBQ teams from eight states the provide meals to people affected by natural disasters in our country.

Age of XS

The debut of the iPhone X was something of a new beginning for the folks at Apple, representing a near-total reimagining of the original lifestyle device. Face scanning gave the iPhone X a new level of security (or just a neat party trick) and the edge-to-edge screen prompted a host of app redesigns. “The future of smartphones” was only the slightest exaggeration.

Now, the iPhone XS pushes the envelope even further, and if that’s not quite excessive enough for you, there’s also the iPhone XS Max…which is obviously the one I went with. It’s scheduled to arrive on my doorstep any day now, and I’m really looking forward to seeing what the absolute best Apple has to offer looks like.

I’ll probably do a review after I’m done playing with it for the first time, but until thenthis article breaks down the key differences between the XS Max and Samsung’s flagship Galaxy Note 9.

Streamlined Scheduling

The Microsoft Office 365 suite gets even better with Bookings, the newest addition to one of the industry’s most popular program packs. Office 365 Bookings offers a slick interface, allowing your clients to look for available openings and schedule appointments that sync to your calendar and cancel just as easily. No more no-shows, isn’t that great?In case you’re not using Office 365, TimeTrade is another outstanding option. It delivers many of the same client scheduling and appointment tracking resources of the Microsoft product, and adds integration with Google tools for a seamless experience on both ends. It’s a long way from the days of calling in to make reservations.

Screen Sharing in Seconds

Anyone who has tried to resolve a network issue with a technician over the phone or set up an impromptu meeting with an offsite partner knows how tricky sharing screens can be. Nobody wants to download some strange .exe file, or worse, spend money to make it happen. With ScreenLeap nobody has to do either, putting shared screen access at an accessible link for free. What a delightful combination of words.

The Last Word

All right, that’s about it for this wonderful week of geek! Thanks as always for making room for me in the email folder you actually check, if I haven’t told you I appreciate it lately, I do. I’ll try to be back on schedule next week, but until then please consider donating to Hurricane Florence relief efforts through Habitat for Humanity.

The post Operation BBQ Relief, Office Bookings, and the New iPhone first appeared on Archway Computer.

One of the questions I always get from people who use Office-365 is how suitable it is for logging sensitive information…for instance, medical professionals rely on HIPPA compliant programs to keep their patient information safe and also not get totally sued. It’s one of the most stringent standards for data security this side of the FBI, and for good reason.
So, do the security features of Office-365 make it HIPPA compliant? Consensus is tough to come by, but if pressed for an answer I’d say “yes.” The business version in particular is built to handle trade secrets and all manner of proprietary information with features such as two-factor identification, and this piece goes into further detail about what makes it a viable solution.

Social Media Never Forgets

As athletes and celebrities often find out after their transition from Everyday Joe, there’s no such thing as a secure old social media account. From enduring networks such as Twitter and Facebook to outdated LinkedIn pages and forum subscriptions, there’s probably a lot more of your personal data floating around out there than you think.
While many of the sites themselves are less than forthcoming about methods of truly deleting–not hiding, not deactivating, deleting–these old accounts, fortunately innovative third parties are starting to address this unforeseen issue. JustDeleteMedoes exactly what it says on the tin, wiping as much as possible of your information from the Internet in just a few clicks.

Brad’s Deal of the Week

If your kid needs a new laptop for the upcoming school year or if you need a backup because your Lenovo Thinkpad is on its’ last legs, check out this affordable and capable option. The Acer Aspire 1 offers a 14 inch full HD display along with a dual-cell battery that can kick out a full 9 hours of battery life, and at less than $200 it’s a steal. 
 

Mom Voyage

I’m going to be doing a bit of traveling in the next couple of weeks, and this time I’ll have a special guest: my wonderful 80-year-old mother! She hasn’t been on a real vacation in some time and I’m looking forward to leading her on the adventure of a lifetime…if you want to come with us (kinda), all you have to do is give me a follow on Twitter.

The Last Word

All right, that’s about enough for this edition! Thanks as always for carving out a little time in your schedule for this week’s insightful installment of “Brad’s Blog!” Not totally sure what the schedule for next week is with the travel and all, but whenever I’m sitting through a 6 hour layover or waiting for security to open after a red-eye flight, I’ll be thinking of you!

The post Is Office 365 Hippa Compliant and more Insuretech first appeared on Archway Computer.

We recently had a visitor to the house of the reptilian persuasion…never quite found out what it was, but as my wife was shooing it out of the house I was able to mostly determine it wasn’t a rattlesnake.

Of course, “mostly” and “rattlesnake” don’t go together in a lot of safe sentences, and that’s where the true genius of the Nextdoor app came in. Nextdoor is an new online resource that allows you to form a digital community with your real-life neighbors, because sometimes technology works backward.

I uploaded a picture I took of the scaly invader to the site (see, I wasn’t totally useless) and the more nature-savvy members of the community were able to confirm it was a non-venomous kingsnake, which made everyone feel a lot better.

In a, I’m happy to see it gone…I like animals and all, but I can do without constrictor serpents slithering around as I sleep.

Stellar Storage Solutions

OneDrive is an often overlooked element of Office 365. Working in conjunction with more well-known members of the suite such as Word, Outlook and PowerPoint to offer up to 1TB (that’s 1000GB, folks) of secure disk space for documents and images to each user. If you’re not making full use of this convenient utility, here are some nifty benefits you may not have thought of.

Naturally, Google always has an answer in the world of technical solutions, and if your daily agenda leans less toward making graphs and more toward making connections, there’s a really useful feature of Google Drive you may be missing out on.

You see, in the Dark Ages I used to accumulate an ungoshly amount of business cards from trade shows, industry workshops, and other points of networking…sometimes I’d get home in the evening and sift through 30 or more cards before filing them in alphabetical order like some kind of amateur librarian…but no longer!

Thanks to this amazing (and relatively cheap!) combination scanner I picked up on Amazon, all I have to do is take pictures of the cards I encounter. The images scan directly to Google Drive, where I can keep and categorize them papercut-free. It’s an incredibly easy to use feature which doesn’t cost an extra dime to use, and ironically, my pockets have never been lighter.

“Wear. Sunscreen.”

Haven’t been to the beach yet this summer? Well, there’s still time…in most places it won’t stop being hot until well into September.

We all know that prolonged direct exposure to the sun can have damaging effects on our skin, but a few coconut drinks can make it easy to forget that you are being slowly cooked at a low temperature for maximum flavor. 

A fair-skinned friend of mine just hit the shores this weekend and came back with a piece of advice: bring an umbrella. Tanning isn’t my strong suit either, so it’s wisdom I will take to heart…just ordered a new one along with a sand anchor from Amazon today after seeing the aftermath. She’s going to be peeling for a week, but we all can learn from her mistake.
 

Music to Your Ears

Whether you need a new pair for a day on the sand or in the office, if you’re in the market for some high-end headphones, you pretty much can’t do better than these.

Nuraphone headsets have a special proprietary design that works with your individual ear construction and hearing level to deliver optimal sound. They also feature variable noise canceling, so you can choose to block out the entirety of existence or only kinda drown out your surroundings with “social mode.” 

Sound like science fiction? Well it’s science fact, and you can own a piece of tomorrow by checking out the site.
 

The Last Word

Another great week of geek…isn’t the future fascinating? Thanks as always for accepting this week’s edifying edition of “Brad’s Blog” into your life. I’ll keep it closer to the schedule next week, but before then I have to get my snake-savvy neighbor a nice tin of Danish butter cookies.

The post Nextdoor Neighbors: Tech Future of Community first appeared on Archway Computer.

It’s always disappointing not to get the Internet speeds you were offered in the sliccompany ad isn’t it? Odds are your provider has been trying to woo you away from competitors for years with little bribes like gift cards and free sports packages, and so not getting what you came for is a bit like being stood up for a date–worse, you can’t even count on making it a Hulu night instead.If your internet speeds aren’t up to par with the lofty promises made before you signed that contract, the answer is to complain. Long and loud, that is, that old adage about the squeaky wheel getting the grease plays perfectly straight with Internet providers and the like. Of course, you’ll need to prove you’re not getting your end of the bargain first, and this Lifehacker piece goes into more detail about popular speed testing apps.

Virtuous Cycle

My daughter is an excellent athlete, letters in high school, walking up several flights of stairs without keeling over, the whole deal. Anyway, she takes her everyday fitness about as seriously as I should, and that’s why when she introduced me to Soul Cycle I knew it was something worth looking into.

Soul Cycle is the high-intensity meeting of a yoga class and spinning session, combining elements of strength training and cardio into an engaging workout. It’s about more than the bikes too…the sense of camaraderie that comes from pushing yourself to the limit in a group is impossible to imitate, especially with heart-pumping music set in a candle-lit environment. It’s almost ritualistic in a way, immersive in a way going for a long run to nowhere just isn’t.

The instructors at Soul Cycle do an excellent job of making the whole thing approachable for newcomers, so it’s easy to jump into a class and see if it’s for you. Don’t worry if you don’t have clip-on spin shoes either, your local outpost should have them for sale plus they’re available in the online shop.
 

Mapping Success

Data only becomes information in the proper context, and eSpatial is a great resource for combining raw numbers with location information to give you a multidimensional look at how your outreach efforts are being received.

Just take a spreadsheet with all of your prospects and clients and the eSpatial tool will lay the contact info on a map, and you can hover over any of the entries to see the full data set.

It’s an amazing tool for identifying location based patterns and taking advantage of trends, so you’re armed to the teeth with information. Here’s an example map we made with our clients…pretty slick, yeah?
 

The Last Word

That seems like about enough for one week, wouldn’t you agree? Thanks as always for making space in your schedule for another enlightening edition of “Brad’s Blog!” I’ll be scouting out things to talk about until I’m back in your inbox, but if you find something worth sharing, don’t be shy about sending it my way…I might even give you credit!

The post Internet Promises and Connections through Cycling first appeared on Archway Computer.

If you had issues with Amazon on Prime Day, you weren’t alone…a major malfunctionat the junction caused the world’s biggest retailer to experience problems with the site worldwide on its most celebrated sales day. The crash happened almost immediately after the start of the sale, and was linked to the sheer volume of visitors keen to take advantage of choice deals during the promotion.The fiasco was eventually sorted out, with Amazon taking well over an hour–an eternity in Prime Time–to restore reliable functionality to the site, but it probably won’t surprise you to learn that it severely impacted my shopping plans. I rushed the digital doors like everyone else, but instead of sweet gadgets at low prices, I was treated to pictures of Amazon employee pets…at least they were cute.

The Problem with Plastic

The impact of single-use plasticware on the environment is an issue that’s getting a lot of deserved attention.

In my community they’ve taken the step of banning disposable plasticware entirely…forks, knives, and straws are now verboten. I guess utensils made from other materials do the job, but how am I supposed to have a lunchroom-style spoon-cracking battle with a cardboard spoon?

That said, any efforts we can undertake to preserve our precious planet are worth pursuing, and a significant source of the disposable plastic problem comes from the fishing trade. You know that famous “garbage patch” in the Pacific, the one that’s three times the size of France? Turns out about 46 percent of it is fishing gear.

Humans are nothing if not a species of problem solvers, and so it’s always encouraging to hear about a set of Sapes that are working to tackle the big projects.Fishing for Energy is an organization that both works directly with fishermen to collect gear to be disposed and provides grant support for development of more efficient technology, because any problem with more than one cause requires a multifaceted solution.
 

Let’s Talk Google

If you’ve finally got that top-of-the-line smartphone paid off through your carrier and are thinking about switching your wireless service, keep an eye on Project Fi.

Google’s latest entry into our lives offers users access to a flexible service plan, charging a $20 base rate for unlimited talk and text and $10 per GB of data used…not a bad deal in an area with ample Wi-Fi coverage.

In somewhat of a surprise, iPhone owners can get in on the savings as well. Of course, there’s no official support (probably something to do with not pushing unit sales for their main competitor), but in a bit of irony, Google’s original service provided me witha workaround.
 

Robocall Resolution

While we’re on about phones, you may have noticed that spam calling has made a most unwelcome return into our lives. Robotic calls are one of the more annoying manifestations of human ingenuity, but fortunately for those who do not enjoy spam calling–hey, there’s a fetish for everything–there are effective solutions.

First thing you want to do is register yourself on the Federal Trade Commission’s “Do Not Call” registry, which is exactly what it sounds like. The laws here have teeth too, violators who make unwanted contact with DNC-protected citizens can be fined up to $40,000 per call/text/email/fax/carrier pigeon.

That should take care of most of them, but for those who aren’t technically breaking the law through some obscure loophole, you’ll need a more tailored approach. ThisPC Mag feature details various methods for eliminating spam calls once and for all, from blocking at the carrier level to screening for known robocall numbers with filtering apps.
 

The Last Word

Okay you crazy kids, that’s about enough for this illuminating installment of “Brad’s Blog!” I hope you’re enjoying an acceptable start to your work week, and thank you as always for making a space in your routine for my rambling rants. Hope to be back in your inbox on schedule next go-round, stay cool out there!

The post Saving the World One Straw at a Time first appeared on Archway Computer.

I hope you woke up feeling lucky this morning: it’s that special time of year again! The NetVU conference is upon us once more, and we’re giving away some truly sweet tech toys this time around: Apple Airbuds and Amazon Alexa Show! You don’t even have to attend to win!!

…but just in case you do plan on making an appearance at one of the industry’s biggest yearly events, you can enter online AND at our booth to double your chances to win. You might even take home both prizes if the Universe is really smiling on you this week.

NetVU is always an exciting event, especially emanating from a great city like Atlanta but I’m looking forward just as much to meeting some of you in person while I’m in town. If you’d like a little face time with The Maestro, click here to schedule an appointment…he might even buy you a drink.

The Maestro is me, by the way.

This Segment Was Written by a Human

Technology is getting a lot smarter, and doing it in a hurry. The latest innovation from the folks at Google is undeniable proof of this, with Google Assistant Duplex rapidly becoming the personal helper you never knew you needed. Want to book a restaurant reservation, go for a haircut, maybe just order a pizza? Your Google Assistant can make the call and iron out all the details.

Of course, the flip side to this next-level AI advancement is pretty apparent to anyone who has watched Netflix’s “Black Mirror,” spiritual successor to “The Twilight Zone.” The emerging AI age brings with it all sorts of ethical concerns, and this piece from CNET highlights some of the more…compelling aspects of AI proliferation.

Aftermarket Browser Upgrades

I always like to share any new browser extensions that make my life a little easier, and one of the apps I’ve recently come to appreciate is called Clockshark. Clockshark helps me increase the efficiency of my remote helpers by tracking their time and location while on the clock with a convenient online dashboard. Try it for 14 days and see if it’s a good resource for your team.

Building a great company starts with the best talent, and Lever is a useful resource in the hiring process. Lever simplifies the hiring process, allowing our recruiting department to make smarter decisions and keep the most qualified applicants on our radar.

Also, if you’ve committed to a browser–I always suggest Chrome–you might want to get Station. Station combines all those fantastic little extensions you’ve collected over the life of your laptop into one streamlined tool. It’s great for cleaning up all the clutter in that menu.

The Last Word

Thanks for clicking in to another exceptional edition of “Brad’s Blog!” Don’t forget to enter our great giveaway to celebrate NetVU Atlanta, and if you find yourself in the Peach State this week, why don’t y’all come on down to the conference and say hi!

The post NetVU Atlanta and Google Duplex first appeared on Archway Computer.

In case my svelte silhouette doesn’t give it away, I’ve gotten more into fitness in recent years. Part of it’s by necessity since I like the way my knees work and the doc says staying active will keep them functional longer, but it’s also easier than ever before thanks to connected tech.

I started out with the original Apple Watch a couple of years back, and have since upgraded to the Apple Watch 3 as my everyday device. It’s pretty much everything I need in a connected device, and finding new features is always fun.

Still, that hasn’t stopped the Motiv from catching my attention. This slick smart ring is the lowest profile smart device yet, putting activity tracking and sleep monitoring capabilities in the palm of your hand, and with your choice of slate grey and rose gold finishes it can also bring out your eyes.

Finance and Foresight

Have you ever considered maintaining a health savings account? If not you could be missing out on substantial tax savings as well as a convenient financial tool that could give you easy access to capital when you need it.

This article in the Wall Street Journal goes into more detail, and just in case you’ve reached your limit for their articles this month, there’s always Incognito Mode to help you bypass the paywall. Savvy.

The Finishing Touch

An email signature can make your communications stand out from the endless walls of text the typical professional finds in their box on a daily basis, and WiseStamp lets you design one from the ground up.

With WiseStamp, you can add information, links, and even a picture to your email with an easy to use template. Even better, it’s free to use and can make your emails look like a million bucks.

Perfect Timing

Nailing people down for an appointment can often feel like trying to do so literally. You know the dance, they never got the memo, they never adjusted their watch for Daylight Savings, they’re taking a quick 3-hour lunch at that time…it can be problematic to say the least.

Enter TimeTrade, a resource that puts the power of scheduling in your customers’ hands by adding a button to your site that allows them to schedule a consultation at their leisure so you stay better connected with your clientele and never have to leave 3 voicemails again.

The Last Word

All right, that’s about it for this thrilling installment of everyone’s favorite weekly tech newsletter! (Yes, everyone’s, they told me!)

Thanks as always for making room in your inbox for this little labor of love, and don’t be shy about dropping me an email if you want to chat about something amazing during this 6-day commercial break.

The post Ultimate Upgrades: Your Life, But Smarter first appeared on Archway Computer.

Like pretty much everyone else, I’ve had my NCAA bracket busted beyond recognition in the first couple of rounds.

With 134 such games in the books at tip-off, a 16 seed had to come out on top against a #1 ranked team one of these years, and nobody told the Retrievers of tiny University of Maryland-Baltimore County that they were 20-point underdogs in their opening round game.

UMBC fell short in their next game after a valiant effort against perennial contender K-State, their day in the sun did give us the enduring delight of their official Twitter account. On the court, I was impressed with the way both coaches handled the unprecedented situation…these are just kids, but the lessons they learn will last a lifetime so kudos to them.

This year’s tournament seems unpredictable even by March Madness standards, with 5 of the games decided by two possessions or less and even the rare overtime Tournament game. In fact, this is the first time I can remember all four #1 seeds falling before the Sweet 16, which softens the blow of my Bruins ending up among the early exits.

Surfing Excursion Included

Got a cruise planned and want to stay connected without spending a small fortune in daily satellite Internet fees? Well, if you have a phone with mobile hotspot feature, there just might be a way.

Most cruises stay relatively close to the coastline for most of the route to save on fuel costs, meaning you can use their frugality against them by using your LTE as a connection point so you can save your budget for those elegant a la carte dining options.

An Influx of Input

We use Crewhu to collect critical feedback from our customers and generally get an idea of how well we’re doing our job. I personally read every review that comes in, it’s a little time consuming but I feel the insight I gain is more than worth the effort.

As our team grows–we’re over 30 people now–I’m getting more response with it than ever before, and I’m happy to report we have a stellar reputation among the people we serve, which reflects their commitment to excellent service as well as my skill in hiring capable staff.

Declaring is Caring?

I was recently given a dose of constructive criticism, namely that I could be more vocal in my praise of the amazing techs that do the heavy lifting around here.
They’re the smartest team of customer focused technical people I have ever had the pleasure to work with. It’s just that “effusive” isn’t a word that’s often used to describe me.

In any event, I get that everyone likes to hear that they’re doing a good job, and this piece helped me consider how my leadership style comes across. Maybe this sounds like you?

The Last Word

Seems like that’s a fine place to put a bookmark in things for the week, so thanks as always for making space in your routine for the latest addition to the “Brad’s Blog” catalogue. I shall return to your inbox in six days’ time, your spam filter permitting. If you’d like to chat before that, hail my email and I’ll find the free time. Have a great week!

The post Busted Brackets and Cheap Cruise Connections first appeared on Archway Computer.

It’s really amazing to the sum total of human knowledge and a global communication device fit into your pocket, isn’t it? If we’re being honest, it’s sort of addictive…we’ve all seen that table of friends enjoying a night out with their smartphones, silently scrolling through their Snapchat.

You may have even been part of such a group, in which case you know the whole thing can go a little too far sometimes. Surprisingly, portable electric fun can even make it harder to focus at work, which is why I found this Lifehacker article pretty helpful. Turns out “Do Not Disturb” mode can be used to save you from yourself in a number of situations, if only for a little while.

More Show, Less Dough

If you’re looking to get the most possible value out of your streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon, a tablet is definitely the way to go. Just save a few programs using the “Watch Later” feature and your 8 hour flight just became a movie marathon.

I like to have a tablet specifically for streaming so I don’t have to take my office iPad or smart home control panel out into the world, and this piece from PC Mag spotlights the models on the market that offer the most bang for your buck.

At Home With Siri

I was really excited for the release of the Apple HomePod, the manufacturer’s answer to the Amazon Echo, but the early reviews are less than glowing.

Apparently the sound quality is fine–”superb,” according to TechRadar--but if you’re used to dealing with the intuitive Alexa, Siri’s limited functionality in the device leaves something to be desired. Nothing that can’t be patched, I suppose.

Still, if you’re full ensconced in the world of Apple, the HomePod is an essential addition to your arsenal, featuring a streamlined setup and automatic pairing with compatible devices. May be smart to wait a few weeks, in any event.

Your Laser Mouse is Cool, But…

If you’ve managed to make it through the last 5 versions of Windows without becoming one of those Power Users the menus speak of, it’s not too late to unlock your true potential.

This handy guide from Windows Central can help you discover nifty keyboard commands that make interfacing with your PC easier than ever before. It’s like a basic spellbook for computer nerds.

The Last Word

Well, that’s pretty much everything I have for this episode. Thanks as always for allowing me into the inbox that you actually check, and for making time in your week for this little labor of love. Have a great week, and don’t forget to go outside every so often, just to get a little fresh air and existential perspective.

The post This Week’s Upgrades for Your Life first appeared on Archway Computer.

“…Pray That I Do Not Alter It Further.”

If I’m being honest, I myself am not a huge user of Facebook—I just cut out the middleman and share my vacation photos directly with you–but its power as a tool of connection with our clients is beyond any glib quip about social media so I’ve really come around on its usefulness.

Archway’s Facebook page has all the latest from “Brad’s Blog” along with targeted news and industry updates…we try to make it well worth a follow if you’re in this line of work. If you want to check it out or just want to learn my middle name, give us a visit at Professor Zuckerberg’s Museum of Online Oddities.

In fact, while we’re on the subject of The Mad Social Scientist, Facebook’s founder just recently announced the most comprehensive update to the Facebook News Feed that we’ve seen since you needed a college email address to sign up.

The changes will drastically affect how and where your network sees your posts, and of interest are early testing results that show business pages are experiencing up to 4 times fewer interactions with fans and followers and 2/3 less reach overall.

The shakeup is set to be finalized in the coming weeks and expanded to Instagram as well later in the year. Although the full implications remain to be seen, my guess is that savvy marketers are going to have to overhaul their approach to connecting with their customer base through Facebook, and that’s exactly what I plan to do.

Saving Facebook

In the wake of these massive changes to one of the biggest resources to social outreach, taking the time to maximize the effect of any content your customers will see during and after the transition could determine the success of your campaign for the foreseeable future.

In short, every post counts when we’re talking about the kind of reach reduction we just discussed, and that’s why having a social media expert is paramount to ensuring your social media presence remains relevant as Facebook goes out of its way to encourage the opposite.

The Creative House Social team has been anticipating this development for months now–and actually broke the story to me–and have devised some proactive strategies to help cushion the blow to your business outreach.

Full disclosure: the owner is my daughter, but she is still amazing at what she does and I’m excited to see her put her plans for helping businesses adapt to this seismic shift into action.

Delicious Diversion

With all this talk of shifting and paradigms and upheaval, it’s nice to have something in this world that remains consistently magnificent…Texas BBQ is one of those things. I haven’t met the brisket I didn’t like yet, but if you’re looking for an especially mind-blowing experience and find yourself in the Lone Star State, do yourself a favor and bring Kreuz Market into your life.

You name it, they have it…fresh made sausage, meaty beef ribs, succulent smoked turkey…if you’re a fan of BBQ, you owe it to your inner fat kid. They even offer home delivery to those without access to Texas, which I haven’t decided is a good or bad thing.

Humanity’s Final 5:00

It seems like we’ve been discussing the rollout of cashierless Amazon Go stores for a year or two now, and the first location has finally opened its automatic doors in Seattle.

This pioneering brick and mortar extension of the world’s largest retailer laughs at your primitive currency, your crumpled bank notes and jingling pocket weights. To purchase items at Amazon Go, you check in to the store using the Amazon Go app and scan your products at a turnstile. Cameras track your choices, and your account is charged when you leave.

It’s a fascinating step forward for automation, and although I don’t believe anyone truly knows what the long term effects of the declining human role in the workplace will be, it’s something we definitely have to start thinking about.

This piece from CNBC spotlights the perspective of noted futurist Elon Musk, and unsurprisingly, it’s a compelling read. His outlook isn’t the sunniest, but it’s honestly what people need to hear on the subject. The future is here, ready or not.

The Last Word

All right, that’s certainly enough food for thought this go-round. Thanks as always for letting this newsletter arrive to the inbox you actually check, and for enjoying this installment of “Brad’s Blog” (if I may be so presumptive). I’ll be back on schedule in about a week’s time, but if you have any thoughts you want to share on any of these groundbreaking recent developments or questions on how they affect you, shoot me an email and we’ll explore them together.

Until next time, my geek elite!

The post Facebook’s Facelift and Amazon’s Automation first appeared on Archway Computer.

…and we’re back!

First things first: Happy New Year 2018 to all my readers! By now just about everyone is settling back into their everyday routines, which have hopefully been amended to reflect all those ambitious resolutions made just last week.

A simple alteration that has made a tangible impact on my quality of life was deciding to make stretching a priority. As the song says, “be kind to your knees, you’ll miss them when they’re gone,” and regular stretching goes a long way toward keeping all your flexy parts in good condition.

For full disclosure, I didn’t just start this on the 1st, but hey…it’s not too late to make a change and you might need some easy ideas.

A New Challenger Appears!

Getting to Know Alexa

The post New Year, Same Geek first appeared on Archway Computer.

For Your Family

I wish I could start off with better news, but this is important to me and could be to you or someone close to you as well.

My mother had herself a bit of a fall recently, and unfortunately she sustained some injuries including a concussion and blood loss in the incident so I spent some time consulting with some highly experienced medical professionals to get the clearest picture of the situation possible.

They really impressed upon me the dangers that concussions can present such as memory difficulties and even physical effects, and although they are common in household falls and other relatively minor accidents, they can’t always be detected by CAT scan.

Thankfully she’s making positive progress toward a recovery, but early detection and treatment was a substantial factor here. That’s why if someone you love has been the victim of a mishap and you suspect they may have had a concussion, this message from the Mayo Clinic could prove vital.

Check Out the Big Brain on Brad!

What Sorcery Is This?

The post Falls and Screen Shares first appeared on Archway Computer.

The post Talking InsureTech and InsureTurkey first appeared on Archway Computer.

California Wildfires

Before the fun and games kick off today, I have to take a minute to address something that continues to affect many of my fellow Californians.

Even though the pictures and videos from the disaster paint a dramatic image t’s hard to get a sense of the devastation that the ongoing wildfires have had on everyday people just by watching the news.

I was actually planning a visit to an area that has been affected by the frighteningly intense blazes to visit a prospective client. We had spoken a few times, and developed such a rapport that I feel like I already know her personally.

A day or two before the scheduled meeting, I was concerned about reports of power outages in the area–computers running on electricity and all–and reached out to her to make sure everything was set to run smoothly.

The news she gave me was honestly pretty terrible…not only had the outages temporarily shut down her agency, her home also burned to the ground in the disaster. The silver lining is that everyone was fine, but it’s obviously a less than ideal situation for her.

If you’re curious, the meeting had to be postponed, but I really hope for a better update when I finally do make her acquaintance official. Best of luck.

In the meantime, the California Fire Foundation does great work for the families of fallen firefighters in times like these, and since what they do is such an important part of keeping us safe in this state, I strongly believe in supporting them.

If you also believe that running toward a fire is one of the most heroic things a human being can do in service to his fellow man, you can learn more about the program here.

The post Slick Sales and Christmas Chromebooks first appeared on Archway Computer.

Hacking the Holidays

Tis the season…for email phishing and other scams. Unfortunately, cybercrooks are well aware of the increase in online activity that comes with this time of year, and with tools such as keystroke loggers and spoofed links in widespread use, it’s no surprise that a recent survey says at least 15 percent of people polled have had an active social media account compromised.

With this in mind, Google has a recent post on its official blog designed to help keep you from making some criminal’s Christmas. It spotlights the true pervasiveness of the issue, with over 25 million users victimized by email phishing and keystroke logging attacks. Here’s a tip: the IRS will likely send you a heavy letter if an issue demands your attention, and Gmail definitely will not ask for your password in a customer service message.

In all seriousness, cybercrime continues to be a constant struggle as the bad guys try to stay one step ahead, and a little vigilance goes a long way to helping keep your information secure.

Weekend Update

If you have friends with iPhones, you may have noticed they were having some technical difficulties over the weekend. Apparently a bug in one of the latest iOS builds causes some types of notification to temporarily send the processor into overdrive, heating it up until it overtaxes the system and forces a reset. So many Instaperfect moments lost to cruel fate.

The good news is that a solution is being rolled out in the form of the iOS 11.2 update, and this Lifehacker article goes into more detail about how to make it happen for you.

Sweet and Sour

We all have days where we could use a little extra juice, and when I need a reminder of how great life can be when you try really hard, I like this little Chrome extension called Momentum.

With Momentum, new tab pages are replaced with a display featuring a picturesque scene from some far flung destination along with a motivational quote and information like the time, date, and local weather. It’s an ideal blend of optimism and practicality.

…wait, what’s that you say? You don’t really go for all that incense and peppermints jazz? Well, fear not, you disappointed idealist…I have something for you as well.

Demotivators is a resource showcasing images best appreciated by those of us that realize there are more flakes and nuts than honey clusters in the cereal of life…it might not leave you pumped up to climb a mountain or run through a wall, but it is pretty hilarious.

Holiday Theatre

The holidays are the best time to watch and rewatch favorite movies, and instead of a traditional Christmas movie like “Die Hard,” I think I’m going to find myself taking another ride with this fun little movie called “The Big Sick.”

It’s based on a true story, and it follows a struggling Pakistani stand-up comic, an American grad student and their culture-crossing love. Without giving too much away, what I found so compelling about the movie is that the characters actually feel like people, and they manage to cover some pretty tricky topics like prejudice and the nature of family in a touching and mostly lighthearted way.

If you have the time to check it out, I definitely suggest it…it may not be directly a holiday film, but the types of connections explored and built in the film are the foundation on which these traditions are built, and I think it captures the spirit of the season more than most. It’s also free to watch for Amazon Prime users, which I assume is pretty much all of you by now, right?

The Last Word

Well, that should about do it for this week. As always, I want to express my sincere appreciation for everyone that has continued to make “Brad’s Blog” Archway’s highest rated customer newsletter. Expect me back in your inbox in six days’ time, and mine is open in case you want to drop me a line before then. Have a great week!

The post No Holiday for Hackers first appeared on Archway Computer.

Did you know that streaming services like Hulu and even YouTube have different content based on what country your account is currently based in?

It’s all due to convoluted licensing and distribution details that can be neatly summed up by the phrase “because money,” but that doesn’t make it any less annoying when I’ve just watched Season 1 and 2 at home and can’t make my way through season 3 on a night’s layover abroad.

Well, at least I couldn’t before I discovered this nifty little resource, Nord VPN. At less than $4 a month on a two year deal, this versatile tool allows you to mask your location so you can access all the content that your subscription monies are paying to finance, and also makes your browsing experience much more secure which is pretty good too.

Seller’s Remorse

Speaking of finances, we recently encountered a strange situation where cybersecurity concern Appriver (which I’ve always loved) began issuing back charges to our clients for sales tax on long past transactions, in some cases amounting to several years worth of sales taxes for enterprise resources like Office 365.

I always like to stay on top of the recommendations I make to our customers–that way they trust your recommendations–and browsing the NetVU boards turned up the revelation that it wasn’t just our clients…apparently this is a widespread practice they’ve enacted.

Now, I’m not a lawyer. I don’t play one on TV, and I didn’t even stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night. However, I know this doesn’t seem quite right…personally, I would consult a legal professional before I paid a substantial unexpected invoice half a decade after the fact.

As it relates to alternatives for upgrading to this year’s latest software, I’ve had good experiences with B & H Photo and Video, which avoids the possibility of delayed misunderstandings by not collecting taxes on purchases delivered outside of NY and NJ.

Mind Business

My stepfather struggled with Alzheimers for the last years of his life, and although he did an amazing job working through his affliction and functioning at a high level, I believe earlier detection would have helped him live a better quality of life for a longer time.

It’s natural to forget things from time to time, especially with the number of social media passwords and business lunches and Groupon expiration dates we try to keep track of in our daily lives. However, the occasional checkup is just good maintenance, and you can take this test at home.

An Early Gift

The security and stability of your system also requires a fair measure of preventative maintenance, and we here at Archway are proud to offer a convenient resource to help our potential future customers get a better picture of their network resources.

If you’d like to take advantage of this free, no obligation system review, all you have to do is check it out here. No appointments necessary and you can do it from your favorite hammock if you like, it’s all performed remotely in just 5 or 10 minutes. We’re here to help any way we can.

The Last Word

All right, that’s about all we have time for this week. Going to be a bit rough getting back into the swing of things after such a long and relaxing weekend, but hey…just a few weeks until pretty much everything shuts down until the end of the year, I feel as though we can get by until then. Thanks as always for making time for this exciting edition of “Brad’s Blog,” enjoy Mexican Netflix!

The post Netflix Around the World and Billing Issues first appeared on Archway Computer.

It’s amazing how the Internet and the proliferation of WiFi have transformed the face of home security. Where once it was a planned Saturday afternoon of watching a burly stranger come into your home and weave a web of wires, now it’s a simple matter of mounting a few cameras, possibly downloading an app. You can do it on a school night if you want.

What I really like about modern home security solutions is that you can monitor them from your smartphone–you know, that thing you take everywhere ever–and some, like the Amazon Cloud Cam that CNET took a look at recently, give you unlimited storage for surveillance as if 1080p recording and instant motion activated notifications weren’t impressive enough.

Centered Operations

Speaking of applications, it seems like everyone relies on at least a dozen to get through a typical day of emails and agendas scored to the correct personalized soundtrack. Enter Zapier, a convenient corralling resource that gives me the notifications I need the moment I need them.

Users can set up triggers to alert them when they’ve received a new email or an important attachment, or even set up a default action sequence. For instance, an email containing a Dropbox attachment can be set up to automatically add the file, then notify you of the update in a team collaboration tool like Slack. Slick and seamless, that’s the way we do it around here.

My Dollars At Work

While I wait impatiently for my new iPhone X to hit the doorstep–it’s been 10 whole days, that’s about seven weeks in tech time–I can at least admire the level of intelligent design that Apple has integrated into their latest non-digital installation.

Even the chairs that commonly decorate public spaces at the shiny new campus somehow cost 14 grand apiece, which I’m sure they can afford since I have likely financed one for them personally.

Electrifying!

You know that feeling of satisfaction you get when you turn the key in your ignition and nothing happens?

Right, no one does.

I myself have an old workhorse of a truck that runs fine once she gets going, but sometimes decides not to cooperate after an extended break…since I travel often, it became a big problem.

At least, it was before I discovered this nifty little lifesaver. It’s basically like that little portable battery pack you may have seen the most prepared person you know carrying, except, you know, it can recharge your car. It also powers up motorcycles and boats on a moment’s notice, in case you are Actually James Bond.

Even better, despite the surprising amount of packaged lightning cranked out by this capable little unit, it still tucks neatly into the glove compartment of your modified Aston Martin (or any car, really) and yes, it will also charge your phone and other small electronic devices.

Honestly, it’s worth the purchase just so you can say you have it.

The Last Word

All right, that’s about all I have for this week of high tech shenanigans. Thanks for taking time early in your week to engage with another compelling installment of “Brad’s Blog.” You can likely expect me right on schedule next time around, but until then I’m going to go instigate some bar bets with this crazy little power pack thingy.

The post Video Vigilance and 14K Chairs first appeared on Archway Computer.

Okay fine, I’ve seen the public service announcements…it’s a few weeks too early to be scouting for Christmas and Hanukkah gifts. We have to let Thanksgiving have its’ turn, it is holiday law.

Still, I’m always encountering neat little gadgets that make everyday life just a bit more convenient, and those typically make the best presents because although almost no one actually buys a programmable coffee cup or high end ice ball maker for themselves, just about everyone would be happy to receive gifts in that category.

In short, somebody on my shopping list is going to find a everyday magic under their tree again this year. One of the products I’ve fallen in love with lately is this water jet flosser from Waterpik, which has singlehandedly taken the results of gum checkups at my dental evaluations from “bad” to “good.” Now that’s making a difference.

The other indispensable essential that someone can expect to share my enthusiasm for this holiday season is this handy electric trimmer from Braun. As you can imagine, my lifestyle of running through airports, shaking hands, and kissing babies doesn’t leave me a lot of time for a meticulously close shave each day, but with this great foil shaver I can get one anyway.

Perfect Your Proposal

If preparing proposals is a big part of what you do, you know how important making an impression is…and how tedious the process of turning out a winning product can be. That’s why I’ve taken a liking to a resource called Proposify, which streamlines the production of a quality proposal so you can keep your team on task and close deals faster.

Workforce Multiplier

As far as in-agency communications go, there’s never been a broader array of options. From the traditional emails of our forefathers to tools fully integrated with some of the latest agency management systems. Still, with resources like Slack and Hipchat enabling you to instantly share and review contracts, budgets, schematics and other documents from mobile devices as well as from a desktop, you can make your 5 member team feel like 50…in the good way.

Island in the Sun

If you ever find yourself on the isle of Maui–yearly vacation, game show prize, favorable drop-off point post alien abduction–I can confidently recommend a dinner cruise on the AlliNui.

Not only is the boat absolutely gorgeous–it is Hawai’i, you know–but they also offer an amazing array of activities from snorkeling and diving in the crystal blue waters surrounding the island to sailing excursions that take you out amongst the splendors of the open Pacific.

I recently took a vacation there with my 80 year old mother and she had the time of her life. We took some great photos as keepsakes, but none of us will forget our memorable visit to Maui anytime soon.

The Last Word

All right, well that seems like a good place to leave things for the week. Thanks as always for making time in your work week boot sequence for another captivating installment of “Brad’s Blog!” I’ll likely be back in your inbox within 6 days or so, but if you miss me too much in the meantime or want to chat about the best things in life, drop me an email!

The post Is It Really November Already? first appeared on Archway Computer.

If you’re wondering where I’ve been for the past few weeks, I’d love to tell you about my recent trip to Argentina…heck, even if you haven’t been wondering, I’m always excited to share. South America is known for its dizzying array of picturesque panoramas, and Iguazu Falls in Argentina is near the top of the list for me.

The locale is one of the “7 Wonders of the World”–well, one of the one of the “7 Wonders of the World,” turns out there are quite a few separate lists–but this one definitely made my personal rankings. This YouTube video doesn’t quite do it justice unless you happen to be in in one of those 4D theatres, but it can give you an idea of the sheer majesty involved. Breathtaking.

All Together Now

Our team seems to be growing with each passing month, and so our collaboration needs are starting to move beyond personal communication tools such as Skype. Getting everyone on the same page when they may not be on the same continent isn’t always easy, but I’m finding that Slack at least makes it feasible.

Slack can bring all of your correspondence together in one convenient, easy to navigate package, giving each team member the power to contribute in an organized fashion. Slack lets you build a searchable archive of your communications along with providing a suite of project management tools, so it feels like you’re all under one roof, just with less required office space.

WiFi Warning

Have you ever heard of WiFi hacking? It’s a lot less innocuous than trying to finagle a free Internet connection at a hotel…cybercrooks can access passwords, credit card information, emails, and even those photos you swore you’d keep a secret.

They call it a “reinstallation attack vulnerability” in the biz, but you can just call it “trouble” if the security of your data is a priority…which I’m sure it is if you’re reading this. Arm yourself with knowledge by checking out this TechCrunch article…otherwise, the consequences could be dire.

Stranger than (Science) Fiction

Fun fact about me: I actually started out my college career with dreams of becoming an astronomer. My teachers always said I was something of a space cadet growing up, and I wanted to fulfill the promise they so clearly saw in me at the time.

Sadly, my limited grasp of advanced theoretical physics outweighed my extensive knowledge of Star Trek, so my dream of becoming the new millenium’s Galileo remains unfulfilled–so far–but the passion for all things cosmic remains, and so I’m really excited about a major discovery made just this week.

You see, after centuries of observation, astronomers have discovered yet another unfathomable wonder hanging tantalizingly in the Universe all around us…they’ve dubbed it a “kilanova,” which sounds a lot less impressive than what it actually is: two collapsing stars fusing together to create a celestial explosion of precious metals and pure energy.

If it sounds too amazing to actually exist, just listen to some of the other mind-blowing aspects of this newly observed deep space phenomenon:

-The material within the construct is so dense that a teaspoon of the substance weighs about one billion tons. One. Billion. Tons.

-The colossal collision also generated a gamma ray burst, an eruption of energy so powerful that it could end life on Earth from clear across the galaxy.

-The actual explosion took place a while back–130 million years, give or take a few millenia–and only now reached out instrumentation after traveling at the speed of light the entire time. Dinosaurs on Earth missed the whole thing.

It is important to note here that none of my typical embellishment is at play…the facts are profoundly astounding on their own merit. I’ll quit nerding out over it here, but only so you have a chance to be awestruck on your own.

The Last Word

All right, that’ll about do it for this go-round…at this point I have to save something for the following episode. Thanks as always for taking time out of your Mon–Tu–um, day to indulge me…my inbox is open if you want to chat. I’ll try to be back on schedule next time, here’s to finishing strong this week!

The post Wonders of the Universe and IT for Insurance Agents first appeared on Archway Computer.

Before the fun starts, I want to start off this week by sending my continued thoughts to those affected by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma as well as my readers in the Great Plains and Pacific Northwest who are dealing with massive wildfires in their respective regions.

While obviously tragic, events like these can also serve as impossible to ignore reminders of the noblest intent of technology: to assist humans in an uncertain world.

Naturally, there is much to be said about the meteorologists, first responders, and medical personnel who employ tools such as Doppler forecasting, GPS, rescue drones, and even social media to make navigating disaster more efficient, but the fact remains that we Sapes are tremendously innovative, and it’s inspiring to see it come into action when it counts.

Best wishes for a speedy recovery, everybody.

Bruined Lives

If you’ve been getting this newsletter for a while–or even since last week–you know that I’m a pretty big college football fan, specifically of the undefeated (well, 2-0) UCLA Bruins. Here’s a shot of me with a couple of guys from my days on campus…isn’t it great that big-school college sports means you never really have to graduate?

Wing and a Prayer

They say it’s best to face your fears head on, and although they say a lot of things I don’t necessarily live my life by, I think they have a pretty good point on this one.

You see, I’ve mentioned once or thrice in this space that flying isn’t exactly my favorite activity…it’s fine when it goes right, but…yeah. They also say that if you want something done right, you have to do it yourself…and so, I’m currently in training to become a pilot.

Seriously, it’s something I’ve always wanted to do, and it’s not quite as daunting as I imagined it to be. If you’ve ever been curious about learning, this series of videos is really good. I personally think women make better pilots for their advanced multitasking skills, but I’ll try not to let my inferiority be too much of an obstacle.

Point, Click, Art

If you’ve been looking for a user friendly version of Adobe Illustrator to make your visual fantasies and meme-based dreams come to life, you’re in luck this idle Tuesday.

Canva is an inexpensive design resource that allows even the most artistically inhibited to create attractive designs or even just press enough easy to identify buttons so that it cranks one out by itself. Best of all, it’s web-based, so there’s no download or installation required.

Just a Suggestion…

Are expense reports a regular part of what you do? Expensify makes the process simpler than ever before with convenient features such as automatic employee reimbursement and expenditure tracking, and all the data gets compiled into a neat little system of reports.

In my opinion, it would be a worthy resource for a certain in-house team member who shall remain nameless.

That’s you, Sueann.

(I didn’t say how long the team member would remain nameless.)

The 5-Second Rule

No, not a conservation strategy for a jelly-side-down mishap, you toddler of an adult.

The 5-Second Rule is a book I read…um, heard…on overcoming our most consistent roadblock to success: the guy in the mirror. Without giving too much away, the book details the true value of stepping outside your comfort zone in a very persuasive manner.

How persuasive?

It played a big part in my transition from drunken, fearful passenger to soberly intrepid pilot trainee. That’s a darn good review, I know after hearing that I’d buy the book if I didn’t have it already.

The Last Word

All right, that’ll wrap things up for this week. Thanks as always for making time for me in your routine, I promise to do the same for you if you drop me an email. Oh, and if you have any Amazon purchases planned in the near future, now’s a great time to useAmazon Smile to benefit the Red Cross or another charity of your choice!

The post Fearless Flyers first appeared on Archway Computer.

Well, college football is finally back, and in a big way. If you haven’t yet heard, my UCLA Bruins somehow engineered one of the greatest comebacks in modern sport this past weekend, and that’s not even one of my signature overdeclarations of truth.

That’s right, led by QB Josh Rosen, the team managed to dig its way out from a 44-10 hole in just over a quarter of play. The winning score come on the old Dan Marino fake spike play with 43 seconds on the clock, so it was definitely one of the most thrilling games I can remember.
The reversal of fortune was something you pretty much only see in college football, which is why I’ve long been a fan of the amateur game. It was a sight to behold even for non-UCLA fans…anyone with a love of the game can appreciate such a valiant and victorious effort.
Well, except you, Kenny (you know who you are). Better luck next Saturday.

Whale Watching Wonders

Hope everybody had an enjoyable Labor Day…we celebrated the advancement of American labor by enjoying one of the freedoms workers struggled so fervently for, namely time off from work.

We took a trip down to the Orcas Islands, and while I was a little disappointed not to see any whales in the vicinity when we got there, seeing two pods of them on the boat ride from Victoria, BC more than made up for it.

We got a few good shots from our Labor Day adventure, otherwise our friends and family won’t believe we went anywhere—that’s the world we live in—and you can check out some of the evidence here. I highly recommend the excursion if you’re ever in the Seattle or Victoria areas.

ESPN Evolves

This weekend’s twist of fate on the gridiron has me pretty excited about my Bruins’ chances of making a big bowl this year, but what has me even more giddy is ESPN’s newfound commitment to streaming. The Worldwide Leader makes almost all of its content available for viewing online, and that’s something even Texas A&M fans can get pumped up for in a few days.

Highs and Lows

I don’t partake myself, but I have mixed feelings about the legalization of marijuana, which has been enacted here in California and is making its spread state by state across the nation.

On one hand, it’s good to see less non-violent individuals in the prison system, but on the other hand I’m worried about what seems like a normalization of driving while “high.”

That is not okay.

The fact is that it’s no more safe to drive while high than it is to drive drunk or under the influence of prescription drugs. The hard numbers bear it out: piloting a 2 ton steel missile while intoxicated is a bad idea.

Convenient Conferencing

I recently experimented with video conferencing using Google Hangouts and I have to say I came away impressed. The video quality was remarkable, the connection stability was rock-solid, and the meeting went off without a hitch. Another great free resource from the rainbow letter crew.

The Last Word

Okay, that feels like a good place to put a bookmark in things, eh? Thanks as always for making time so early in your week for another exciting edition of “Brad’s Blog.” I’ll be back around right on schedule, but if you want to chat before then don’t be shy about shooting me an email!

The post College Football Kickoff and a Laborless Day first appeared on Archway Computer.

In case you’ve been living under a rock—or outside the one we all share—the first full solar eclipse to take place over the Continental United States in many of our lifetimes is set for next Monday and it’s going to be blanking spectacular.

The “path of totality,” which is NASA-speak for “front row seating,” cuts through the Pacific Northwest and Deep South as well as about half a dozen “flyover states,” but Sungazers from Canada to Mexico will receive at least a partial view of the eclipse if none of those areas apply to you.

This helpful guide from your friendly neighborhood space geniuses details how to safely enjoy the eclipse without painlessly burning out your retinas with the full coronal radiance of our home star, and as almost always, Amazon is more than prepared to assist in the endeavor with the proper equipment.

…just be sure to get the real deal, that would be a sad way to lose readers.

Priceless Professionals

Our lack of affiliation with hardware and software providers is near the core of what makes us special as a company, allowing us to suggest the very best products for individual agencies without factoring in the size of any kickbacks.

For instance, we’d bet that manufacturers of tangible goods aren’t exactly big fans of my preference for refurb products…ending is better than mending and all that. Still, machines from sourced from sites like Newegg doubtless deliver plenty of bang for the buck, with most models arriving on your doorstep complete with a 1 year warranty and no-obligation trial period.

Naturally we at Archway appreciate their approach, as it’s pretty close to the way we’re willing to establish ourselves with our new clients–by proving how good we are before they make some massive investment in an unknown quantity. It’s worked at Archway for a while now so it’s encouraging to see making customer satisfaction paramount isn’t some weird dream only I have.

Computer Corner

However, it’s hard to deny there’s something special about unboxing a new product for the first time. The nigh-impenetrable armor of packing tape that ensconces every box, the grating screech of Styrofoam pulled from its cardboard cocoon, the strange aroma of freshly manufactured plastic…wait, I’m not doing a very good job describing the experience, am I?

Still, if you’re in the market for a new laptop, the latest entry into the Thinkpad series is a pretty compelling choice. The official laptop of the International Space Station—seriously, look it up and earn free drinks on bar bets forever—has only gotten better in its latest iteration, and it should go without saying that if it’s good enough for actual rocket scientists, it should capably serve your needs as well.

Internet-only machines are becoming ever more popular in an age where resources from Microsoft Word to Skype and everything in between are all available as purely online resources and almost the entire planet is covered in WiFi, and so I’m still a strong believer in the Chromebook. If most of your computer activity involves being online anyway, why not choose a slimmed down solution for the purpose?

“If you think education is expensive…”

Even though I wasn’t the biggest fan of school in my pupiling days, I’ve grown to discover there’s never an excuse to stop learning. Benjamin Franklin said that an investment in an education will pay the most interest, and he seemed like a pretty sharp guy overall. Of course, he didn’t live in a time where you could take free classes at your local Apple Store, but still.

Life is Rich

If you’re been reading this blog for a while—or evn just this week—you may have put together that I’m a huge fan of technology. The typical standard of living for humans has advanced exponentially in just the last 100 years…did you know being a billionaire was barely even A Thing until after airplanes were invented?

Even for those with more—ahem—modest fortunes, the average quality of life has vastly improved. I rarely have time to think about how rich I am what with the lack of a private jet and all, but this piece by George F. Will showcases just how wealthy citizens of the new millenium are…“Richer than Rockefeller” a compelling enough hook for you?

The Last Word

All right, that should do it for this week…I’ve got a long few days ahead of me so I’ll wrap it up here. Thanks as always for reading, let’s chat again in a few days!

The post What a Wonderful World (with WiFi)! first appeared on Archway Computer.

Say Hi to Hannah!

I’m proud to start off this week by introducing my readers to a longtime friend of Archway! Hannah is a social media and digital marketing wiz (the geek doesn’t fall far from the nerd tree) who happens to have her own consulting business at sincerelysocial.net.

Hannah is long overdue for offering her signature brand of marketing insights to the world in my opinion, and I couldn’t be happier that she’s taking this step. Well, maybe a bit happier since she’s also running an exclusive offer on her services just for my readers!

Just contact her here and mention me to redeem the offer (and because I like being mentioned)! Plus I’m her dad.

Sweet Deals

How could Amazon possibly get better?

Drone delivery? Okay…maybe. Some kind of frequent buyer program? Sure. An option to 3D print products you order immediately? Yes, without a doubt.

Fine, I suppose there are a few ways.

Still, most of that is probably at least 6 months off, so for now Honey will have to do.

Honey is a Chrome extension that automatically finds and applies coupon codes whenever you shop on Amazon, and it’s a valuable resource in my everyday life for obvious reasons.

It’s a Small World After All

Of course, when you’re in a time where an infinite online warehouse will deliver goods to you on demand from practically around the globe (with 2-Day Shipping available on many items!), it’s easy to take our amazing future and its ability to transcend distances for granted.

For instance, did you know that on average, a software user is located 3 times as far away from the vendor as they were 15 years ago? Of course, that speaks to both the worldwide proliferation of software giants and the popularity of customer support installations in India, but it’s still remarkable.

In any event, I know this type of advancement has absolutely transformed the way businesses like ours operate. Where once screen sharing was a dark and esoteric art involving rare wares and deep technical knowledge, now it’s as simple as passing along a website link thanks to Screenleap.

Uber Conference has also had its impact on the office culture around here. Thanks to this powerful conference calling tool, my remote staff members rarely have to report to the physical office to be productive. They don’t get to see me as much, but I find they’re coping with that decently.

“Hi, welcome to Earth, try the ice cream!”

Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy what I do and have spilled much ink telling you so, but I have to say that my work serving humanity by keeping their networks up and running will look great on my resume for my new dream job: Planetary Protection Officer.

Sure, that sounds like a Voltron pilot’s formal job description, and that’s probably because the position just came to prominence in a letter to NASA from a particularly intrepid 9-year-old. Here’s the fun part: NASA let the kid down gently, responding that he should stay in school and eat his vitamins and all.

Here’s the more fun part: they didn’t deny the need for such a representative.

Clearly, the youngling was unqualified for the opportunity without so much as a high school diploma, but that doesn’t affect my chances at all! I’m going to look into it a little more and see what they need in a PPO, ideally I can get in on the application process before every Star Trek fan on Earth catches wind.

The Last Word

All right, that’s about enough from me this week…thanks as always for stopping by for another enthralling installment of “Brad’s Blog!” I’ll be back on schedule in 6 days’ time, but until then, quick question: would you mind if I listed you as a reference on my PPO application?

The post Brad Ruben: Ambassador of Earth first appeared on Archway Computer.

It seems like just a month or two ago that everyone was bidding a fond farewell or other final “F’s” to the year 2016, but somehow we’re well over halfway through the year.

Time is sort of funny that way, either months at a time run together into a bland oatmeal of everyday events or constant adventures, misadventures and other twists of fate can make nearly every day seem like a new season.

Either way, it’s a good reminder that we only get so many summers no matter what, and if you can be happier than you were the last go-round, you’re doing pretty darn well for yourself.

Of course, we all know that technology is in a particularly impressive state right now—you know…because I won’t shut up about it, nor should I because it is—but the emerging question is how it affects the people that use it, specifically their level of overall happiness.

This interesting piece spotlights the interesting ways that the digital age has affected the everyday lives of people, and although I am a staunch believer in the power of human innovation, there’s also something to be said for balance and it makes a compelling case.

Teslas for Everyone

For years, the main obstacles for many people in making the switch to electric vehicles was that that there were more pay phones than charging stations in most cities as well as the fact that the cars themselves cost, on average, as much as an NFL stadium.

Now that local governments are making a dedicated effort to fix the first issue, the Tesla Model 3 has been hailed as a true game-changer in the electric car arena, delivering the Earth-friendly four-door to the market at a family-friendly price of about 35,000 dollars.

So far the Model T of the zap wagon age has been rolled out to just 30 employees of the company along with a few models set aside for reviews like these, which claim it to be a winner on a practically universal basis. See, technology is amazing.

Of course, the fact that is both new and legitimately great means demand for the Model 3 is high, but if you’ve always wanted a car that runs on lightning for yourself, now’s the time to jump in with a deposit and get on the wait list.

High Life, Low Price

In case you didn’t know, hotels run on a very specific business model: that is, they only actually turn any real profit when every light in the place is turned on every night. That means selling a room at half price is better than having any empty rooms, and that’s where Hotel Tonight comes in.

Hotel Tonight is an app that has partnered up with hotels in cities nationwide to connect travelers with sudden scheduling changes and freeform lifestyles to unsold rooms at rock bottom prices.

Sure, it was a good enough resource when it just allowed me to snag a cheap room on a moment’s notice, but the new upgrade feature takes the entire setup to the next level.

Imagine getting a 4 or 5 star hotel for 50 percent off…or you could give your powers of visualization a rest and just download the app.

Does It Come in “World’s Best Boss?”

Like I said, we truly live in an impressive future. It seems like every minor, Seinfeldian issue that used to confound people in all walks of life now has a sleek and shiny solution…well, not the sponge episode, but we’re not going to get into that right now.

Moving on, Ember the futuristic coffee cup—isn’t that a fun concept for an animated show—is almost obnoxiously advanced, allowing you to remotely adjust the temperature of a warm beverage to the ideal level using an associated app.

It also allows you to program preset temperatures in case you enjoy your coffee at a different temperature than your hot chocolate, and will send you an alert on your smartphone when it’s at the perfect sipping temperature. It also includes a charging coaster, because of course it does.

There’s literally nothing I can add to that without burning up my hype capacitor, so here’s a link to the product in case you think I made any of that up.

The Last Word

Well, that seems like a pretty content-rich installment, seems like a good place to wrap things up. Thanks as absolutely always for making time early in your week for this fun little chat, hope to do it again sometime. Here’s to a strong start to the month!

The post Is Tech Affecting Your Happiness? first appeared on Archway Computer.

It might be too little, too late, but I do at least find it encouraging that governments are at least attempting to catch up with the cybercrime epidemic with state-level security legislation. New York is lighting the way with a bill known as NYCR500, which applies to all agencies that transact business in the state or operate under a business license issued there.

 Of course, with new legislation comes new red tape, and even though the trade-off is probably worth it this time, that doesn’t make complying any less of a challenge for company leaders who are already pressed for time while…you know, running a business.

The good news is that the insurance association in your state may be able to assist you in navigating the trickier and stickier parts of the new guidelines in case you don’t actively enjoy filling out forms.

Becoming a Cyborg (kinda)

As with most humans, my eyes aren’t quite what they used to be…legal blindness is a ways off, but I find myself doing a lot of unprescribed squinting in my everyday life, and so anything that makes images larger and clearer is a big help.

That’s why I use my iPhone as a magnifying glass on a regular basis thanks to this handy little guide, and I’ve also gotten myself a little portable pair of reading glasses that slip into the back of a special iPhone case, because if I have to get old I’m at least going to do so futuristically.

Vintage Vicodin

Have you ever had a thunderous headache and fled to your medicine cabinet looking for answers only to find that your only medication is months out of date? Well, depending on the severity of the situation, you can at least consider taking it anyway.

That’s right, according to this Lifehacker piece, medication expiration dates don’t refer to a timeframe for the pills self-destructing or turning into pure poison, but how long the medication is expected to retain its full effectiveness, and so the dates are a lot earlier than they have to be.

It’s important to note here that this isn’t the opinion of some random blogger who spent an hour or too on Google, these are the results of a recent scientific study, the results of which are backed by FDA policy.

They stop short of telling people to ignore expiration dates entirely because wrongful death lawsuits can be very inconvenient for all parties involved, but the fact is that most medications are good for a lot longer than claimed, so those Bush-era Ibuprofen are probably fine.

Streets of Rage

Stop me if you’ve heard this before, but driving in LA can be somewhat troublesome at times. After spending a lot of time on YouTube watching unfiltered insanity unfold on Russian dashcams, I’ve decided that if the unexpected is to happen, it should at least be recorded.

As a result, I’ve been on the hunt for a dashcam system for a few weeks now, and this one on Amazon has a wide-angle view as well as night mode and built in Wi-Fi for instant uploading, and for 90 bucks you’re not going to get a much better deal.

It’ll really come in handy during my next impromptu Monster Truck rally on the streets of LA.

Coast-to-Coast Consultation

Okay, so I know the City of Angels is a frequent topic of discussion for me, but unlike the Red Hot Chili Peppers, I keep in mind that other areas of the country exist on a full-time basis.

We provide expert IT support to agencies across this great nation of ours to agencies of all sizes, and if you don’t want to fire your ‘computer geek’ brother-in-law for only knowing about 10-15 percent more than you, we can offer consultation to make him better at his job instead.

I do what I do because I have a passion for highlighting the full benefits of technology in our lives—surprise—and if you want to know a little more about Brad Ruben Consulting, this Google Drive doc has more information about it.

The Last Word

All right, that seems like a good run for this week. Thanks as always for making time early in your 5 day cycle for another fun installment of “Brad’s Blog.” I’m pretty sure you know when to expect me next, and I’ll try not to be watching crazy dashcam videos until then.

On an even more positive note, we at Archway are providing a personalized step-by-step guide to the process to our clients because they are special and therefore deserve better things.

The ever-helpful SueAnn is taking the lead on this project, so feel free to reach out to her here if you have any questions about the new legislation and how it affects your agency.

The post LA Drivers on Expired Drugs first appeared on Archway Computer.