Getting Buried by the Beeps, Buzzes and Blips of Tech

By Leonard Toenjes

Q: I know a guy in construction who showers in the morning with his BlackBerry. I have only picked up the basics of computers. What is a quick and easy to get up to speed on wireless technology?

A: While I am concerned enough about the moisture impact on my personal communication device to leave it outside of the shower, I also am dependent upon this tool to help me do a better job.

There is no doubt that effective use of the most current communications technology can make you more productive and your customers more satisfied with your performance and response time. Building your technology knowledge-base will pay significant benefits in the long run.

Hard Work, High Rewards

I’m sorry to report that there is no quick and easy way to get up to speed on this technology. It is hard work, but worth the effort.

First, assess your real communications and technology needs, not your wants. Do you travel out of town a significant portion of your time? Is your office structured to allow for remote file access through such technology as a virtual private network? Is a camera phone a necessity or a frill? Do you have a laptop computer that could benefit from broadband access to the internet?

Discuss these questions and others with those in your company team. Work together to figure out which improvements could help build a more cohesive business unit.

Second, after this needs assessment, do some reading and online research related to different products available on the market. The Web site pdabuzz.com shows a variety of communications devices with an overview from manufacturers and suppliers.

Take you time to understand all the features and buzzwords related to the device or devices you may finally decide to purchase and use. Believe me that once you have the device in hand, it will only serve you to the extent that you are familiar with the features and comfortable with its usage. Also during this research, ensure that the service coverage is strong in your geographic region, as this is still a significant variable between providers.

Third, after you have narrowed the choices, do some trial and error. Many service providers will allow you to use their equipment on a short-term trial basis for no fee. This trial usage period can really help you determine if you have selected the technology that fits you, meets your needs, is easy for you to use, and has effective connectivity.

As with so many things in life, the balance of keeping in touch and knowing when to tuning out is a critical personal decision. I’m reminded of a two panel cartoon.

In the first panel, the executive is shown working at his desk, while the thought balloon above his head shows a picture of him dreaming about fishing with his grandson. In the second panel, he is shown fishing with his grandson while the thought balloon above his head shows him thinking about working at his desk and the tasks that need tending.

This is the trap that needs to be avoided with the technology access that is available. Balance and prudent usage judgment are not technology issues.

Do you have questions on construction human resources, safety or management? E-mail them to Leonard Toenjes at ltoenjes@agcstl.org or craig_barner@mcgraw-hill.com. If Len picks your question, he will answer it in a future issue of Midwest Construction.)