Some Considerations for Your iPad 2
Yep, I did it. I bought an iPad 2.
I didn’t get the first one. Although I did experience a lot of iPad envy. I’m a girl who loves the latest technology gadgets. But honestly, I just didn’t see the first one being more than a big game console and/or eReader. Not that there’s anything wrong with that…but I wanted slightly 
As much as I wanted the new iPad, it was still a very difficult decision for me to finally take the plunge and buy one. Not as much because of the cost – although an iPad isn’t cheap and of course you have to get new accessories and new apps to go with it – but because I felt like I was committing to some sort of new lifestyle change at the same time. For example:
Books – I love reading. But I hate schlepping around books. So with the new iPad comes a commitment to buy digital books. Or check out digital books from the library. One thing I’m hoping to do with my iPad is share the books I mention during my training sessions. This would allow participants to flip through a few pages on a break and see if they want to buy the book.
Subscriptions – Same goes here. I have my favorite magazines but if I’m not going to carry around books…then I shouldn’t carry around magazines. I think it will initially be a challenge to find digital magazines but ultimately, it will save trees.
File Storage Apps – I already use Box.net to store a handful of files when I’m out of the office. But I’ve decided to take it a step further and add a folder for all of those PDF Executive Summaries I receive. No more printing them out to carry on the plane.
Cloud Computing – I really need to spend more time understanding how cloud computing can benefit me personally and in my business. I feel behind the curve on this one. The iPad is so light (smidge over 1 lb.) there’s really no excuse not to have it with me all the time. (My cosmetic bag might weigh the same, how sad is that.)
Which leads to my last thought, accessibility. I like my technology, no doubt about it. But it’s equally important to disconnect. Talk with people face to face and give them your complete attention. While I’m looking forward to all of the benefits my shiny new iPad will provide, I need to take my own advice and make sure I manage my iPad. Versus the other way around.
It’s hard to believe we weren’t even talking about tablets a few years ago. Now, Forrester Research is predicting tablet computers will account for 23% of all PC sales by 2015. While it might seem fuzzy where the market is headed, the picture is getting clearer all the time. Especially when I hear colleagues sharing how their kids are using iPads to learn geography and how tablets are so intuitive to use.
Even though I must admit there will be some Words with Friends being played on my iPad (you can find me at HRBartender), my goal is to challenge myself with the technology to create efficiencies for me and my business. I’m curious, what do you think of the tablet craze? Is it the fad du jour or the beginning of a change in the way we can do business? Leave me your thoughts in the comments.
Image courtesy of Pedro Eugenio Antunes
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