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Chapter Two: The right equipment, and the right attitude
Perhaps you already have all the equipment you need
If you have an employer, the chances are that your employer set you up with all the equipment you need to be a productive telecommuter. Many companies set up Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), so that their mobile workers are always in communication. A VPN is a data network. While it uses public communications, it secures privacy by using a special protocol and extra security procedures.
If you're setting up on your own, in this chapter we discuss must-haves and useful equipment. You may well have most of the equipment that you need already. If you don't, getting your gear needn't be costly: you can find bargains on everything from computers to office furniture at eBay.
Don’t have a home office? You can telecommute from the smallest space, including your lap: your office can be packed in a bag.
The heart of your office in a bag:
your notebook computer
Every year notebook computers become ever smaller, lighter, and more powerful, so it's possible to take your entire office with you in a bag.
If you're buying a new computer to use as your go-everywhere office, look for specifications which include a fast processor, ample hard drive space and Random Access Memory (RAM), and a DVD burner (which will also play and burn CDs). Your machine should have multimedia capabilities, so that you can give presentations, and an integrated wireless Local Area Network (LAN) or Ethernet card, so that you can plug into the networks of companies that you’re working with. If you're in sales, a Wi-Fi card, is a must, so that you'll be able to access the Wi-Fi hotspots in all large Australian cities. These hotspots give you instant, free wireless Internet access.
If you buy your computer online, you can save money, and build a machine to your exact specifications. If you're not technologically savvy, ask a friend or consultant to help you. Look for special deals, where items like a multi-function printer, a larger hard drive, or a digital camera are often included in the package.
Web applications extend your office in a bag around the globe
Telecommuters don’t need three-drawer filing cabinets: Web applications like Basecamp ™ have made them obsolete. Basecamp™ is a complete project management application, which lets you communicate with clients, post files for review and comment, and store information online, so that it's instantly accessible from any computer.
If you don’t need all the functions that a Web application gives you, sign up for a free Web-based mail service, so that you have access to your email and documents if you're using a computer in a business, or a public computer in a library, or an Internet café.
Additional Web applications to consider:
LinkUAll: helps teams to share files, coordinate calendars, participate in online chats, manage content and much more;
Microsoft SharePoint Services: offers many tools, including bulletin boards, image libraries, information services, and IT management services. This product is excellent for Microsoft Office users with little IT experience;
SiteScape: offers workflow, document management, and action-item management.
For more information, simply fill in the survey below and we will send you a free ebook on "Telecommuting" Today!
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