Tag Archives: Office Productivity

Hybrid working tools

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COVID changed a lot in our society, especially the acceptance of working from home. Although many never want to leave home again, a vast majority now look for some type of hybrid work environment requiring hybrid working tools where they split the week between the office and the home office.

Research has shown that working from home is more efficient, saving a lot of commuting time but removing office socialising and interpersonal communication and ideas.

In this guide, we will look at some products and services that make life easier for the hybrid worker

Hybrid working tools are more than just a laptop

Many organisations are now seriously considering their real estate needs, and the hot desk, although previously popular, is now becoming the norm. This means that the worker no longer has their own desk, and anything they need will be kept in a locker in the workplace, transportable in their bag or at home.

Suppose you are going to carry around your desk. In that case, it is important to consider your back and the implications of lugging around a big bag full of tech and stationery. The good news is that, in theory, we are now living in a mostly paperless world, so you should not be carrying around reams of paper.

Below is a list of products and services that you might consider for your hybrid working tools:

Small lighter PCs

In a soon-to-be-published GadgetGuy review, we looked at the merits of replacing a PC with a Chromebook. With so much of our work now being cloud-based, it removes the need for a powerful client device to do our work. A Chromebook is lighter, has a longer battery life, and is much cheaper. Chromebooks aside, if you are going to lug a laptop between home and work best, go for one that is light and, as a result, has a smaller screen. Look for models that boot up fast with SSD for storage.

Monitor

Hopefully, you will have a monitor available to staff on shared work desks and a provision for them to also have a monitor at home. At around $300 each, these are a worthwhile investment. A large monitor enables easy viewing of documents and spreadsheets if you have a small-screen laptop.

To connect the monitor to the laptop, you must consider different models and connection standards like HDMI or USB-C. This will ensure all workers can take advantage of the monitor.

PC Stand

Probably not a product you would think of, but a laptop stand allows you to elevate your screen to eye level, so you are not hunched over and end up with back issues. The second advantage is it raises your inbuilt webcam to a more flattering angle. Hence, others are not literally looking up your nose.

Twelve South has just launched a potable desktop stand that can raise your laptop by up to 55cm and weighs less than 1kg. Included is a travel sleeve so you can easily transport the stand between home and work or even the coffee shop. The keyboard angle can be adjusted between 0 and 45 degrees, and the stand allows you to easily align with an external monitor.

Keyboard

A Bluetooth keyboard removes wires and makes typing with a laptop much more productive. Small Business Answers looked at the Logitech MX Mechanical keyboard, which is pricy but fantastic. Still, more economical models can easily be found.

Although carrying a keyboard between work and home is not something we would suggest. You can purchase lightweight Bluetooth keyboards weighing the same as your mobile phone that will work with your PC, tablet and smartphone.

Mouse

Even though a laptop comes with a trackpad, a wireless mouse will make life much easier. Having extra buttons and wheels will increase productivity, and a quality mouse will be far easier to use. This is one of those products you say; why did I not get one of these sooner? We have reviewed the Logitech MX Master 3S mouse, which gives you a new level of precision. An alternative to look at is the Logitech Lift mouse, which offers an ergonomic solution by taking the controls into a more vertical position. The benefit is less wrist strain.

Headphones

When in the office, chances are you will be in a high-density hot desk environment. The downside of this is the noise generated around you and the impact that will have on any phone calls.

Using a headphone solution for calls with noise cancelling technologies will help you hear the telephone conversation better and allow you to be heard by the other calling party.

We have reviewed an on-ear solution from Poly. The Voyager 4320 will function with or without a base station and even detect if they are picked up or removed to answer a call or mute a call automatically (respectively).

A more portable solution that is just as handy on public transport is the Jabra Elite 7 pro. They are in-ear earbuds with noise cancellation and can be paired with multiple devices such as your PC and smartphone.

If you are a mobile worker spending a lot of time in a vehicle or in a situation where you want to ensure your voice is heard, look at the Jabra Talk 65. Note this is a one-ear device.

Internet access

As a hybrid work, you or your staff will need reliable internet to complete the job. Hopefully, this is already covered at home or in the office, and an NBN-type solution will be your best bet. Note a wired ethernet connection to your PC will always give video calls a better quality.

A wireless broadband solution is also important as a backup, enabling you to work on the move. Most mobile data solutions will do the job if living in a major city.

If you work in a remote area or one with poor coverage, we recommend you read the following guide.

Cloud applications and storage

Unfortunately, becoming a hybrid worker means you are putting your company’s data at risk. This risk can come from losing your PC on a commute to a piece of hardware failure due to being bumped or dropped.

Keeping your data on the cloud is a safe and efficient solution to overcome this. This can be done either via your office productivity suite like Microsoft Office 365 or Google G suite.

Alternatively, you can look at a cloud storage provider that provides you with a virtual hard drive to keep your files safe.

The advantages of cloud storage are that you can easily collaborate your work with others and even all work on the same document simultaneously. Especially if your team is all working remotely, this is advantageous.

Hybrid working tools

If you are now working or planning to work in a hybrid way, then working the old way with tools designed for a fixed office location may not favour you. Kitting yourself out with a few hybrid working tools should provide you with productivity and ergonomic improvements.

Office Productivity Software

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Your new PC has arrived, and this will be your tool to run your business. It powers up, you find a browser and then look for an email and spreadsheet app. Disappointingly, you cannot find any obvious software solutions preloaded. That’s because they don’t come included, and if they are, they are probably not very good, or you have paid extra to have something added! This guide will discuss your options for adding office productivity software to your computer.

If we cut to the chase, you will most likely consider products from Microsoft or Google.

Office productivity software is application software used for producing information such as documents, presentations, spreadsheets, databases, charts, graphs, etc.

WHY do I need Microsoft Office or Google G Suite?

Suppose you want to create these documents. You have to have some sort of office productivity solution. Whether you will pay to be able to use the software will depend on how you use it.

Your choices are:
  1. Free: Both Microsoft and Google allow you free access to some of their applications from a browser connected to the internet. These will enable you to read, edit or produce files via a cloud solution.
  2. Buy: You can buy Microsoft Office as a once-off price for installing onto your PC (1 device only). The cost will depend on which of their applications you want to use and how many copies.
  3. Subscribe: You can subscribe to Google G Suite or Microsoft Office in different variants and costs. The subscription version of Microsoft Office is called Microsoft 365, and it can be used across multiple devices.
    1. Microsoft is PC installed software with web app also available
    2. Google is a web-based app but can also work offline
    3. Both offer cloud storage and collaboration (you can share files between workers)
    4. Both always have access to the latest features and productivity enhancements.

If you can get a free version, why pay? Because the paid version will offer improved security and management, collaboration, and flexibility for your business. A simple example is being able to use your email domain correctly, i.e. Fred@gmail.com vs fred@yourbusiness.com

WHAT type of applications do office productivity software provide (in some combination):

  • Word processing – create documents such as a letter
  • Spreadsheet – numbers can be arranged in grid patterns to manage calculations
  • Presentation – used to create a pleasing document to back up a speech or sales pitch
  • Email – read and compose emails
  • Calendar – control your weekly schedule with possible sharing with office colleagues
  • Contacts – database of your contacts
  • Video conferencing- allows video calls with others
  • Messaging – instant text-based messaging between workers from their PC
  • Note-taking – ability to produce to-do lists and capture content for later reference
Microsoft Office/365Google G suite
Word ProcessingWordDocs
SpreadsheetExcelSheets
Presentation PowerPointSlides
EmailOutlookGmail
CalendarOutlookCalendar
ContactsOutlookContacts
Note TakingOneNoteKeep
Video conferencingSkypeMeet
Cloud StorageOneDriveDrive

HOW to decide between Google and Microsoft?

Both companies’ solutions are great, but both have differences. When comparing, consider the following questions to help you choose between the two:

  • If you will use file collaboration, do you need it in real-time? (Google better)
  • How does security compare? (Microsoft better)
  • How do the costs compare to what you need? (See links below)
  • Is there good integration between email, contacts, and your calendar? (Microsoft better)
  • How much cloud storage is included? (Depends on edition)
  • Do the features of each application support your working needs?
  • What extra apps are included, like to-do lists? (Google offers additional)
  • What support is available?

Microsoft pricing link here.

Google pricing link here.

SUMMARY – research which office productivity software

One thing is for sure, with this software, you will never use all the features they offer, but with continual updates and fierce competition, your life will continue to get easier. You can find a feature-by-feature comparison here.

Logitech MX Mechanical keyboard review

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For 10 years, I have used a keyboard that came with a PC from a major brand. The letters are painted on, and you can no longer see some of the keys. A and S, to be specific. I liked the mechanical feel of it, and the other keyboards did not feel quite right. Then a week ago, I received a Logitech MX mechanical keyboard. Suddenly my old keyboard did not feel right.

The Logitech MX mechanical keyboard is wireless, battery powered and has illuminated keys. It has a sturdy design and each keystroke has a reassuring feel and sound.

Be sure to read Small Business Answers buying guide to keyboards.

What is a mechanical keyboard?

You are probably using a chiclet keyboard. A chicklet keyboard is a soft touch keyboard where the buttons are part of a membrane of switches.

A mechanical keyboard is one where each key is a physical button, and each time you press a key, there is a distinctive typing sound. When typing on a mechanical keyboard, the amount of play or the depth the key recedes is greater than on other types of keyboards. This gives a very responsive feel to typing. Mechanical keyboards also make the familiar click noise.

What’s in the box?

At an RRP of $269.95, this keyboard is certainly at the top end. A Mechanical mini is also available for $229.95, removing the number pad.

Opening the box, you will find the keyboard, a Bluetooth dongle (in case your PC does not have Bluetooth built-in) and a USB-C charging cable (USB-A to USB-C).

You can customise your experience by feel and sound when ordering this keyboard. You can choose between three customised switch types that each have a distinct feel and sound, and your choices are tactile quiet, linear or clicky. See the website before you make your purchase to understand the differences.

Why should you buy the Logitech MX Mechanical Keyboard?

When you remove the keyboard from the box, it seems very heavy. This translates to what appears to be a very sturdy construction, but more importantly, it sits solidly on your desk and does not move around. This gives you a very solid platform to type from. Not being a touch typer, I find the illuminated keyboard a welcome addition. I have this on my notebook keyboard, and as it gets dark at night, I forget to turn the light on as I do not need it.

The keyboard has many shortcut keys which boost productivity. Microphones can be muted, PC locked, video fast-forwarded or snip instantly activated. If the 24 predetermined keys don’t suit, you can customise the keys to perform other shortcut tasks.

The biggest advantage this keyboard has is my typing speed increased. Not because I did some courses but purely based on the tactile interaction. $270 seems a lot, but if my productivity increases, this cost will be covered in less than a month.

Other features of MX Mechanical

If you have more than one computer or a TV or tablet, you would like to connect this keyboard. You can have up to 3 separate devices and seamlessly switch between the three with a simple press of one of three buttons. The keyboard will also suit a Windows or Mac environment with familiar keys symbols for both. If you also have an MX mouse and Logi software. You can control different devices simply by moving your mouse between screens even though they are other PCs. The keyboard will respond to the device your mouse pointer is on.

A handy feature when you forget to regularly charge is that a 15-minute charge will power the keyboard for a full day of use. However, you’re probably sitting at a fixed desk anyway, so you could run the supplied cable permanently if you wanted

The keyboard is made from almost 50% of recyclable materials.

Setup

The MX mechanical uses a low-energy Bluetooth wireless connection. My PC is six years old and runs Windows 10. To set up the keyboard, I charged the keyboard to full and turned on the power switch. With no software being downloaded, my PC immediately produced a popup box asking if I wanted to connect the keyboard. I said yes, and it was operational in seconds.

Logitech has a PC application Logi Options+ from which firmware can be upgraded, keyboard shortcuts can be customised, backlight turned on/off, and battery saving mode toggled. A handy feature is the customised settings can be backed up to the Logi cloud.

Customisable keys can also be application-specific which is extremely useful to those in creative or engineering type fields.

The battery percentage indicator is shown in the app and the windows Bluetooth page. My Battery usage so far has been around 2% a day.

Logi quotes up to 15 days of usage with the backlight setting or 10 months with the backlight off between charges.

Should you upgrade your keyboard to a Logitech MX mechanical

If you could be more productive by typing and activating functions faster, would that be worth spending $270? The Logitech MX mechanical keyboard was a surprise as I did not believe it would have such an impact on my productivity.

The backlit keyboard and shortcut keys enhance its capability. Its sturdy construction and weight ensure its stability as you type. Keys are responsive and give a reassuring tactile feel and noise.

The setup is seamless, and within minutes you could also have customisable keys to suit specific application functions.

Note if you want a silent keyboard, this is not the one for you.

Access files remotely – anywhere anytime

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When you are on your work or home network, it is very easy to share files between PC’s but what happens if you want remote access to files?. This guide will look at why you would access files remotely and understand what is possible and how we can set up a solution to access files remotely.

Remote file access or remote file sharing is the ability to access your computer files anywhere and anytime you are connected to the internet.

WHY would I want to access files remotely?

The requirement to work from anywhere is not something new. However, recent events have certainly accelerated the need to be able to work from home. The modern business world is all about collaboration and sharing information, and having files just on 1 PC goes against that. It also creates a security and continuity issue. The sharing of files and remote access ensures workers are always up to date and can immediately respond to business needs. Typical drivers for remote access include:

  • business travel
  • working from the client’s premise
  • working from home
  • work whilst commuting – meaning you get home sooner.

Remote access to files creates a security issue. If you can access those files remotely, who else might also be able to access those confidential files?

WHAT do I need to understand about remote file access?

If you are unfamiliar with a network or file sharing, read our guides on a computer network for small offices and storage and sharing files.

There are many ways to access files remotely using the internet.  The real challenge is to ensure that your files are kept secure, and the solution is easy to use.

There are two key methods to secure those files: to encrypt the individual file or create a secure connection for traffic between your office and your PC over the internet.

The technologies to secure files are:
  • To protect the individual file by encryption or the use of a secure sockets layer (SSL). This essentially means if someone could get a copy of your file, they could not read it.
  • Creating a secure connection to your office is most likely done with a Virtual Private Network (VPN). VPN uses the internet to create a secure pipe between your device and the business files/systems as if you were actually sitting in your office.

Keep in mind that hackers continue to exploit security vulnerabilities. Your choice of a remote access solution should be influenced by the importance of the data that can be accessed remotely. E.g. a customer quote letter falling into the wrong hands is an inconvenience versus the design plans for a new widget which could send you broke. Always ensure your tech devices have the latest security patches loaded.

A scenario can also be created where you cannot download a file. Still, through a secure link, you can view the information whilst you are connected only.

HOW do I access my files remotely?

The key factor here is the place/devise where your files are stored must be available all the time. Thus if the files were stored at the office on a PC and that PC was turned off when someone went home, you can no longer access those files.

For this reason, we recommend that you have a dedicated solution specifically designed to share files. Also, see our guide to file sharing where we compare Cloud vs NAS. The three options you should consider are:

Cloud Storage Solutions

You will be familiar with Google Drive, iCloud, Microsoft One Drive, DropBox etc. All of these allow you to set a special folder on your PC that automatically synchronise files between your PC and the cloud storage location. Any authorised users can also share this file to their PC, tablet or smartphone. Note you are relying on an outside company to store and protect your file. The file within your business is only a copy. Being a cloud service, you will pay a monthly subscription based on the amount of storage you require

Networked Attached Storage NAS

A NAS Device allows you to share files and backup files and computers within your office (or home) network. In addition, it can also allow those files to be shared anywhere anytime, just like the cloud storage solutions. The key difference is that you have full control and responsibility for your own files rather than risk being stored in another country like cloud solutions. NAS boxes are simple to set up and maintain and offer the flexibility to provide additional functionality and customisation for those more technical. A NAS must be purchased upfront, with solutions being available from Officeworks or electrical retailers. We strongly suggest you buy a system capable of using 2 or more hard drives.

Router

This solution is a little more complicated, and we only recommend it to those more technical. Assuming your router supports this functionality, you can attach a hard drive to the router. You can share files from that hard disk both within your network and out to authorised people via the internet through setting changes. This is a cost-effective way to access files remotely but is not a dedicated solution like the above two, which will be simpler.

HINTS

It is possible to share a single file with a 3rd party outside of your business on a one-off basis. This is commonly used to transfer files too big for email.

Small Business Answers has remote access to files vis a Synology DiskStation DS420+ NAS. This access can be achieved via two methods. The Synology NAS can be used as your own private cloud with 100% data ownership and zero additional cost. Like the cloud solutions mentioned above, you download an application called Synology drive, which sets a folder up on your desktop that seamlessly synchronises files to your NAS. These same files can also be accessed from a web browser, smartphone App or another Synology NAS. The second method is to use the Synology File station to customise access permissions to optimise security to share your files across multiple platforms. Whether it’s Windows, macOS, and Linux computers or mobile devices.  File station will also allow you to have a hybrid storage configuration allowing duplication with public clouds like Google drive.

Synology provides a handy NAS selector to help you determine which model is right for you.

SUMMARY – remote file sharing

The ability to collaborate and have the most up to date information via a shared file saves time and effort in this fast-moving connected world. A shared file is also one that is backed up in the event of a disaster.

Securing files that are shared is a critical consideration ensuring non authorised people cannot read what is contained.

The two simplest methods of remote file sharing are investing in a NAS solution or subscribing to a cloud storage solution.

Webcam, Mouse and Keyboard for productivity

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If you are like most people, you will have bought a new PC or laptop and never considered those extra computer peripherals.  After all, they probably came with the unit or were built into your laptop. Specifically, we are talking about a webcam, mouse, keyboard or even a headset or separate microphone.  In this how-to guide, we will look at why you should consider spending some more money, what you need to understand about peripherals and how to buy the right item.

WebCam: A video camera either integrated or connected to a PC allowing images to be seen normally over the internet.
Mouse: A small handheld peripheral that when moved will cause the cursor on a computer screen to also move.
Keyboard: a set of keys allowing alphanumerical communication on a PC.
Microphone or Speaker: A mechanical device to turn audio sound waves into signals that can be transmitted by your PC or vice versa.

WHY should I buy a Webcam, Mouse and Keyboard?

 Your brand-new PC comes with an included mouse and keyboard.  Your brand-new laptop comes with a trackpad (mouse), keyboard, webcam and microphone.

However, there are a few reasons why you should consider buying a separate Webcam, Mouse Keyboard, Microphone, Headset, Speakers etc

  1. They did not come in the box
    Chances are if you bought a freestanding computer an accessory such as a webcam is not included.
  2. Quality
    A PC manufacturer will typically only ship the most essential quality accessories to keep their and your costs down. This would influence the touch and feel or how the product looks. In the case of a microphone or webcam, it will impact how you look and sound.
  3. Ergonomics
    This can be considered two ways:
    • With a laptop computer, the peripherals are build-in; therefore when you use it remotely it is convenient, but if you are at home, ergonomically a separate keyboard and mouse will allow you to find a much more comfortable position
    • The design and shape of a keyboard can reduce the stress and strain placed on your hands, fingers and back.  Many people, after years of operating a computer develop an RSI or repetitive strain injury.
  4. Functionality
    A third party peripheral may come with extra buttons or features that allow you to become more effective. Examples include scrolling left and right from a mouse, zooming a webcam, and pressing a button on your keyboard to open an app.
  5. Durability
    A cheap accessory is built to a price, and its performance may deteriorate quickly with use.  Ensure your products will survive a fall and potentially put up with the abuse from working at home.

More and more people are now working from home (COVID has undoubtedly accelerated that) but for most small businesses that was already a reality.  However, what has changed is the use of your computer to make video and voice calls.  To be seen as a professional, you need to ensure your video image is sharp and your voice is heard clearly.

WHAT do you need to know about computer peripherals?

An essential product we have not covered in this guide is computer monitors. We have a separate guide available here.  If you are also in the market for a new computer, be sure to check out our guide on buying a new PC.

No matter what accessory you buy for your PC, they will be connected to your PC in some way and also powered.  This is likely to occur in one of two ways.

A wired connection will pass information back and forth and also provide power for the device.  The advantage is you don’t have to worry about batteries or to recharge. Still, you do have to worry about an ugly cable.  You also need to consider whether your PC has enough USB sockets or buy a hub (same concept as a power board).

The second method is a wireless solution that will typically connect to your PC by Bluetooth and require disposable or rechargeable batteries.  The significant advantage here is no cords, especially for a mouse.

HOW to pick the right Webcam, Mouse and Keyboard

Below we have listed the key features you should consider when buying a:

Webcam
  • Quality of video capture. Measured as resolution and frame rate. Look for HD or Full HD at 30fps.
  • Field of view. Measured in degrees will determine if you are captured as a wide (> deg sees more of the room) or closeup shot.
  • Autofocus. Ensures the image of you is clear
  • Light correction. If you are in a dark or bright room, how well the camera compensates
  • Quality of lens. Glass is better
  • Compatibility with Zoom, Teams, Skype etc
  • Mounting. Does it come with a bracket to attach to a monitor or tripod
  • Microphone. Determines how you sound and what other noise is picked up. Consider a stereo mike for natural sound with noise cancelling.
  • Software control.  Manual adjustment, video capture, and even changing the background, so people do not see your unmade bed.
Mouse
  • How you hold the mouse – fingertip grip, palm grip or claw grip.  Also consider if it will be small enough to travel with if required.
  • Feel – comfort, scrolling action and buttons
  • Cable or wireless
  • Sensitivity – for precision mouse movements if editing images, video or audio.  Measured in Dots Per Inch, look for one with at least 1200 DPI
  • Will it work on different surfaces?
Keyboard
  • Cable or wireless – if wireless consider battery life
  • Compatibility with Windows PC or Apple Mac
  • Extra function keys – to open apps or perform tasks
  • Ergonomics of keys – position and feel
  • Sensitivity and noise – avoid mistypes and disturbing others
  • Do you want illuminated keys for night use
Headset
  • Over-ear – on-ear – in-ear. – Personal preference
  • Sound quality
  • Comfort including lightness and after long periods
  • Fashion – How will you look on a video call
  • Microphone quality and placement
  • Features including mute, volume or even noise cancelling
Microphone (stand-alone)
  • More expensive the better you sound
  • Usage – video calling versus recording a podcast
  • Size
  • Does it connect via USB or 3.5mm jack and include software to adjust the sound
  • Portability if you need to travel
Speakers
  • More expensive may not mean better but cheap is generally cheap
  • Do you just need noise or will you also listen to music
  • Cable or wireless connection
  • Dedicated volume and possibly base control
  • How big and how do they look
  • Other uses such as a smart speaker
  • How loud they are, measured in wattage
  • Try to listen before you buy

HINTS

If you are in the market for a new computer accessory, unfortunately, you are unlikely able to test drive it at your local retailer or office supply store.  We do recommend you visit our sister site Gadgetguy.com.au for unbiased reviews and comparisons.

The key players in the peripherals market are Microsoft and the key PC makers themselves like HP and Dell. Still, we highly recommend you check out the vast range available from Logitech. The latter specialises in this market and make products to suit many needs.

SUMMARY – Improve your PC productivity

Buying a new Webcam, Mouse ,Keyboard etc for your computer is one of those things that you do not know what you are missing out on until you experience what better looks/feel like.  The accessory may seem expensive but remember it is the primary connection for you to connect with your PC and possibly your customers.

When deciding what to buy always consider what you need, how it will help your productivity, improve your impression on others, and be more comfortable for you to use.