Dr. Bob Spencer Twenty Seconds In the Future

The Death of e-Mail

While you were busy you probably did not notice that e-mail is dead. I began to take note some time ago as I sent out family e-mail and it seemed that while the older folks responded, I was not getting responses from the younger family members. Why, I asked? My youngest son and daughter finally cued me in - they were way too busy texting to check e-mail. This really came home to me last night as I texted back and forth during the Emmy's with my seven year old granddaughter (yes, she has a cell phone.) She texted me about what was happening in her life. I must admit it was pretty cool - but, unlike email, I regretted not being able to easily archive the messages I was viewing on my phone for posterity. However, I realized that to her it was just like a phone call, only better as it was in real time and she could drop me a line and pick up the conversation whenever she wanted. So we chatted during her dinner at Olive Garden, at home watching the Emmy's later and finally she texted me good night and wished me a good day tomorrow. How cool was that. I wonder what her world will be like in 15 years when she gets a job? Anyway, she won't be using email - at least not the way we understand it today. Rest in peace email.

Does Your Business Have a Social Networking Policy?

With the exploding popularity of Social Networking, management must begin providing guidance to employees as to what the company considers acceptable, and the importance of employees not posting comments regarding sensitive information, company activity, or customers of the company when they are not authorized to do so. Simply attempting to block Social Networking sites at the office is not working. Why? Because employees can post from home, their smart phones, and via the Internet anytime they choose. Companies today should define control procedures and issue written control policies related to acceptable social networking behavior. I have presented a number of seminars this year on Social Networking in general, as well as Social Networking for Business. As a result I have had a number of requests for a sample policy that can be used to start from. After reviewing many of these which have been implemented by businesses today, I have compiled a simple brief policy example that I believe fits the need. Keep in mind that this is only an example, and not a recommendation. You should develop your own policy and pass it by legal to review and confirm or suggest more appropriate language for your business. I also welcome comments or suggestions that make the policy better. You can pick up the PDF of the sample social networking policy here.

iPad Making Inroads with Corporate America

For a long as I can remember, which is a very long time, Apple has been the step-child of corporate technology. Often relegated to those "strange people" in marketing or engineering, Apple products where never seen as business tools. But, it seems the iPad may be changing that. From banks to retail, iPad's are entering the business world with a bank. I think there are a number of applications, besides just having fun, where the iPad can be useful. First, understand that it is NOT a PC, and it is not a Smartphone. It is something else. If you are considering purchasing an iPad, or have one and want to know what great business apps are available, read the rest of my article...

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