Tech Blog

As a small business owner, you wear many hats. You are the CEO, the janitor, the marketing department, and everything in between. When it comes time to create a website for your business, you may be tempted to go the DIY route and build it yourself. However, there are several reasons why you should hire a professional website designer instead.

If you need a new or revamped website, check out our website service page or contact us for more information! Website Design

Designing a website is more complicated than it looks. It requires a keen eye for detail, an understanding of branding and marketing, and the ability to code (or at least work with someone who does). While it is possible to learn all of these things yourself, it will take away from time that could be spent running your business. A professional website designer can take care of everything for you while you focus on what you do best.

Let’s take a look at three reasons in more detail:

1. A Good First Impression is Important

Your website is often the first interaction that potential customers have with your business. First impressions are important, so you want to make sure that your website makes a good one. A professional website designer will make sure that your site is well-designed, easy to navigate, and responsive (meaning it looks good on both desktop and mobile devices).

2. Your Website is an Investment, Not an Expense

Nike didn’t design their own shoes; so why would you try to design your own website? Just like any other product or service that you offer, your website is an investment. And like any other investment, you want to make sure that it is done right. Hiring a professional website designer is an investment that will pay off in the long run with increased traffic and conversions (sales).

3. Professional Website Designers Save You Time (and Headaches)

Websites are not static; they need to be updated on a regular basis with new content, images, products, etc. Unless you have experience designing websites, chances are that making even small changes will take up more of your time than it should. A professional website designer can make changes quickly and efficiently so that you can spend your time running your business instead of trying to figure out how to change the color of your text or add a new photo gallery. 

As a small business owner, your time is precious. You can’t afford to waste it by trying to design your own website. Hiring a professional website designer is an investment that will save you time and money in the long run. A well-designed website will make a good first impression on potential customers and help increase traffic and conversions. So what are you waiting for? Contact a professional website designer today!

If you need a new or revamped website, check out our website service page or contact us for more information! Website Design

If you’re like most people, you probably use your laptop for hours at a time without giving much thought to the amount of battery life you have left. And then, when your laptop finally dies and you’re in the middle of an important project, you curse yourself for not being more mindful.

But there is something you can do to extend your laptop’s battery life, even if you’re not very mindful about it. All it takes is a few simple changes in how you use your computer. Here are four easy tips that will help save battery life on your laptop.

1. Reduce screen brightness.

It may seem obvious, but reducing your laptop’s screen brightness is one of the easiest ways to extend its battery life. The brighter your screen is, the more power it draws from your battery, so turning down the brightness can make a big difference. You might be surprised by just how much you can save by turning down your brightness a few notches.

2. Close apps that are running in the background.

Many of us have become accustomed to having dozens of apps open on our laptops at the same time, but all those extra programs take up valuable resources and drain your battery quickly. Instead, close any apps or tabs that you aren’t currently using, as this will help your laptop to run more efficiently and conserve battery life at the same time.

3. Use power-saving settings in your operating system.

Many laptops come with built-in power saving features that you can take advantage of to save even more battery life. These settings are usually accessed through your operating system, such as Windows or MacOS, so take some time to explore them and find the ones that work best for you.

4. Invest in an external battery pack or charger.

If you’re really serious about extending your laptop’s battery life, consider investing in an external battery pack or charger. This will allow you to charge your laptop while you’re on the go, without having to worry about running out of battery in the middle of your workday. Whatever option you choose, just be sure that it is compatible with your particular model of laptop.

If you want to save battery life on your laptop, follow these simple tips. Whether you turn down the brightness, close unused apps, or invest in an external battery pack, you’ll be well on your way to a longer-lasting laptop and less stressful workdays. And isn’t that what we all want?

Introduction

A cluttered desk is not only unsightly, it’s also a productivity killer. If you work at a desk all day, it’s important to find ways to keep your space organized so you can stay focused on the task at hand. Fortunately, there are a number of simple hacks you can use to get your desk into tip-top shape—and you don’t have to go out and buy a bunch of fancy organizers to do it. With a little bit of creativity and some basic office supplies, you can declutter your desk once and for all. Here’s how. 

Use Cable Ties to Keep Cords Under Control 

If you’ve got a jumble of cords running across your desk, it’s time to get them under control. Cable ties are an easy and cheap way to keep cords neat and tidy. Simply group all of the cords together and then secure them with a cable tie. You can also use cable ties to route cords along the back or side of your desk so they’re out of the way. If you want to be able to access your cords easily, just leave a little bit of slack when you secure them with the cable tie. Once everything is nice and tidy, give your desk a quick dusting and vacuum, and you’re good to go! 

Designate a Drawer for Supplies 

If your desk is cluttered with pens, paperclips, Post-Its, etc., it’s time to designate a drawer for office supplies. That way, instead of having everything strewn about, everything will have its own place. And when everything has its own place, it’s much easier to keep things tidy. You can either use an existing drawer that’s empty or purchase a small organizer that fits perfectly into one of your desk drawers. Once you’ve got everything sorted, be sure to put everything back in its place after each use so your space stays clean and clutter-free. 

Use Baskets or Boxes for Loose Papers 

Piles of paper are one of the biggest culprits when it comes to desk clutter. To corral all those loose papers, try using baskets or boxes. You can either purchase some cute boxes or baskets specifically for this purpose or upcycle some that you already have around the house. Once you’ve got your papers sorted into baskets or boxes, label each one so you know where everything is. And when new papers come in, be sure to deal with them right away so they don’t end up as part of the mess. 

Conclusion

A tidy desk equals a productive mind—or so they say. If you find yourself constantly fighting against a sea of paper clutter or struggling to find things because your space is such a mess, it might be time to reassess your organizational strategy. Luckily, there are plenty of simple ways to declutter even the most hopelessly messy Desktop—and most of them don’t require spending any money whatsoever. By utilizing some common household items and being conscientious about putting things away after each use, you can turn that cluttered space into an oasis of calm in no time flat. 

Backing up your data is important. Whether you have a personal computer or a business computer, there is always a risk of data loss. Viruses, malware, ransomware, and even hardware failure can all lead to data loss. That is why it is important to have a backup plan in place.

For those of you who are not subscribed to our computer repiar service, Active Protect, wich includes industry leading backup software we will focus on backing up your data using Microsoft’s built-in tools in Windows 10.  

File History 

Windows 10 has a feature called File History that allows you to backup files stored in the Documents, Pictures, Videos, and Desktop folders. File History automatically saves copies of files as you work on them and stores multiple versions of files so that you can go back to an earlier version if necessary. File History works best if you have an external hard drive or USB drive connected to your computer because it saves copies of your files on the connected drive. You can also use File History to restore files that have been lost or deleted by mistake.  

To turn on File History, go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Backup and then select the “Add a drive” option under “Back up using File History.” From there, you will be able to select the external hard drive or USB drive that you want to use for your backups. Once you have selected the drive, make sure the “Turn on” switch is turned on and then click “Ok.”  

System Image Backup 

System Image Backup is a feature in Windows 10 that allows you to backup everything on your computer—including your operating system, installed programs, and personal files—to an external hard drive or USB drive. A system image backup is different from a file backup because it contains everything on your computer—not just specific folders or files.  

To create a system image backup in Windows 10, go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Backup and then click the “Create a system image” link under “See full set of backup options.” From there, follow the prompts to select the external hard drive or USB drive that you want to use for your backups and then click “Finish.”  

Conclusion

Backing up your data is important because there is always a risk of data loss due to viruses, malware, ransomware, and even hardware failures. Windows 10 has two built-in features—File History and System Image Backup—that allow you to easily backup your data to an external hard drive or USB drive.

Links on this site are Amazon affiliate links and we may earn a small commision on products purchased.

Artificial Intelligence 

Artificial intelligence, often abbreviated as AI, refers to the use of computer technology to perform tasks that otherwise require human intelligence. This includes activities such as visual perception, speech recognition, decision-making, and translation between languages. In recent years, there has been an upsurge in the field of AI. 

There are two main approaches to AI, known as weak and strong AI. Weak AI is designed to mimic human behavior but does not have human-level intelligence or awareness. On the other hand, strong AI is aimed at developing thinking machines that possess consciousness and can perform tasks better than humans. Many people are excited about the future of artificial intelligence and are optimistic that it will lead to many positive advances. However, others are concerned about how AI can be used to harm humanity, as in the case of autonomous weapons or “killer robots.” 

Regardless of people’s opinions on the topic, one thing is certain: artificial intelligence is here to stay. As we continue to see rapid technological advancement, it is important to understand how this technology can shape our future and the impact that it may have on society. 

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been a hot topic in recent years, with many people excited about its potential benefits and others concerned about its risks. There are two main approaches to AI: weak AI, which is designed to mimic human behavior but does not have human-level intelligence or awareness, and strong AI, which aims to develop thinking machines that are conscious and can perform tasks better than humans. 

There is no doubt that AI will continue to play an important role in our lives as we see rapid technological advancement. Whether we are excited or concerned about this technology, it is important to understand how it can shape our future and the impact that it may have on society. After all, AI has the potential to bring about both positive and negative changes, and we must be prepared for whatever comes our way. 

Augmented Reality 

Augmented reality refers to the addition of digital elements to the real world. These elements can be anything from text or images to sounds or videos. AR applications are often used to provide additional information or context about what the user is seeing in the real world. One popular example of augmented reality is the Pokemon Go app, which allows users to view and interact with digital characters that appear in their surroundings. 

There are many different applications for artificial intelligence and augmented reality technologies. Some companies use AI algorithms to identify patterns and trends in large datasets, while others use AR apps to provide information about their products or services. Additionally, many researchers are exploring the use of AI and AR in fields such as healthcare, education, transportation, and disaster relief. 

Blockchain 

A blockchain is a digital ledger of all cryptocurrency transactions. It is constantly growing as “completed” blocks are added to it with a new set of recordings. Each block contains a cryptographic hash of the previous block, a timestamp, and transaction data. Bitcoin nodes use the block chain to differentiate legitimate Bitcoin transactions from attempts to re-spend coins that have already been spent elsewhere. 

There is a lot of excitement around the potential applications of blockchain technology. Many people believe that it could revolutionize the way we conduct transactions online, offering greater security, efficiency, and transparency. Some companies are exploring its use in areas such as digital identity management, supply chain tracking, and data storage. 

However, there are also some challenges associated with implementing blockchain technology. For example, some experts argue that it is still too early to fully understand the impact that this emerging technology will have on society and the economy. Others point out that there are many unanswered questions about issues such as scalability and cybersecurity. 

Cryptocurrency 

Cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual currency that uses cryptography to secure its transactions and to control the creation of new units. Cryptocurrencies are decentralized, meaning they are not subject to government or financial institution control. Bitcoin, the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, was created in 2009. 

There are many different types of cryptocurrencies, each with its own unique features and applications. Some cryptocurrencies are designed for peer-to-peer transactions, while others are intended for use as digital currencies or tokens. Additionally, some cryptocurrencies are built on top of blockchain technology, while others use alternative methods for securing their transactions. 

Internet of Things 

The “Internet of Things” (IoT) is a term used to describe the growing network of physical objects that are connected to the Internet. These objects can include things such as home appliances, vehicles, and industrial equipment. The IoT offers a number of potential benefits, including improved efficiency, greater connectivity, and enhanced communication. 

Many companies are exploring the potential applications of the IoT in various industries. For example, automakers are looking into ways to connect their vehicles to the Internet in order to improve safety and security features. Retailers are exploring ways to use the IoT to improve customer engagement and track inventory. And healthcare providers are investigating ways to use the IoT to improve patient care. 

Machine Learning 

Machine learning is a method of teaching computers to learn from data without being explicitly programmed. This involves using algorithms to analyze data, identify patterns, and make predictions. Machine learning can be used to improve the accuracy of predictions over time, and it can be applied in a variety of industries, including finance, healthcare, retail, and manufacturing. 

Virtual Reality 

Virtual reality is an immersive, three-dimensional environment that can be created with a computer and a special headset. This environment can be used for gaming, entertainment, education, and training. In virtual reality, the user is able to interact with the digital world in a realistic way. 

One of the main challenges of virtual reality is ensuring that the environment is realistic and immersive. This can be accomplished through a combination of audio, visual, and tactile feedback mechanisms. In addition, companies are working to develop more advanced hardware systems for use in virtual reality applications. Some experts believe that virtual reality could eventually become a major player in many different industries, including retail, entertainment, and healthcare. 

Natural Language Processing 

Natural language processing (NLP) is a field of computer science and linguistics that deals with the interaction between computers and human languages. In particular, NLP focuses on the understanding of human language input and the production of human language output. This involves tasks such as text parsing, text classification, and machine translation. 

The applications of NLP are becoming increasingly common and varied. For example, many customer service chatbots use NLP to process incoming requests from users and respond with appropriate information. Similarly, machine learning algorithms can be used for sentiment analysis in order to understand people’s opinions about certain topics or brands. There are also a number of potential applications for NLP in the healthcare industry, such as for medical record retrieval and patient diagnosis. 

Predictive Analytics 

Predictive analytics is a process of using data mining and modeling techniques to make predictions about future events. This involves the use of historical data to identify patterns and trends that can be used to predict future outcomes. Predictive analytics can be used in a variety of industries, including finance, healthcare, retail, and manufacturing. 

One of the main benefits of predictive analytics is that it allows businesses to make proactive decisions instead of reactive decisions. In other words, predictive analytics allows companies to plan for future events rather than dealing with them after they have already occurred. Additionally, predictive analytics can help businesses improve their decision-making processes by providing insights into what actions are most likely to result in desired outcomes. 

Chatbots 

Chatbots are computer programs that can simulate a human conversation. They are commonly used for customer service, and they can be used to handle a wide variety of tasks, including product inquiries, troubleshooting, and order processing. 

Chatbots are powered by natural language processing (NLP) technology, which allows them to understand and respond to human speech. This makes them relatively easy to use, and they can be integrated into a variety of platforms, including websites, mobile apps, and messaging platforms. 

Computer Vision 

Computer vision is a field of computer science and engineering that deals with the analysis and interpretation of images. In particular, computer vision focuses on the development of algorithms that can be used to identify and track objects in images. This can be used for a variety of purposes, such as surveillance, image recognition, and 3D reconstruction. 

One of the main challenges in computer vision is dealing with the vast amount of data that is involved. In order to accurately identify and track objects in an image, a large number of parameters must be considered. Additionally, computer vision algorithms must be able to handle variations in lighting, texture, and color. 

Big Data 

Big data is a term that is used to describe the large volumes of data that are now being generated by businesses and organizations. This data can be in the form of text, images, audio, or video files. The main challenge with big data is managing and processing this information in a timely and efficient manner. 

There are a number of different tools and technologies that can be used for big data management and analysis. These include data warehouses, Hadoop clusters NoSQL databases, and machine learning algorithms. By using these tools, businesses can gain insights into their customers, products, and operations. 

Nanotechnology 

Nanotechnology is the science and technology of creating objects that are on a scale of 1 to 100 nanometers. Nanotechnology is a relatively new field, and there are still many unknowns about its potential applications. However, some of the possible applications include the development of new drugs and medical treatments, the improvement of manufacturing processes, and the creation of new materials and coatings. 

Currently, there are many challenges that need to be addressed in order to fully realize the potential of nanotechnology. These include issues related to funding, standards, and public perception. Additionally, there are many ethical considerations involved with the use of nanotechnology, such as questions about its potential impact on human health and the environment. 

While there are many benefits to be gained from predictive analytics, there are also a number of challenges that need to be considered. One major challenge is dealing with the huge amounts of data that are typically involved in predictive analytics projects. This can make it difficult for businesses to process and analyze all of this information in a timely and efficient manner. 

Another challenge is ensuring the accuracy and validity of the data that is being used. This often requires a combination of human input and machine learning algorithms in order to ensure that results are as accurate and reliable as possible. 

To overcome these challenges, businesses must invest in the right technology tools and training programs, and they must also establish clear guidelines for data management and analysis. Additionally, businesses should seek to collaborate with external stakeholders and share knowledge and best practices. By doing so, they can help advance the field of predictive analytics and achieve greater success in their own projects. 

Quantum Computing 

Quantum computing is a type of computing that uses quantum-mechanical phenomena, such as superposition and entanglement, to perform operations on data. This makes quantum computers much faster and more powerful than traditional computers. 

Additionally, quantum computers are of solving certain problems that are impossible for traditional computers to solve. This is because traditional computers rely on bits, which can only store a finite amount of information. Quantum computers, on the other hand, use qubits, which can store an unlimited amount of information. 

There are a number of challenges associated with quantum computing, including issues related to the stability and control of qubits. Additionally, there is a need for new programming languages and tools that are specifically designed for working with large volumes of data. Another challenge is managing the vast amounts of data that are typically generated by quantum computers. 

To overcome these challenges, businesses will need to invest in specialized hardware and software, as well as training for their employees. They should also work closely with experts and other stakeholders in the field of quantum computing, sharing knowledge and best practices to advance the field as a whole. In this way, they can stay at the forefront of innovation and gain a competitive advantage in their industry. 

5G Network 

A 5G network is a next-generation cellular network that offers much faster data speeds and more reliable connections than current 4G networks. It is designed to handle the high bandwidth requirements of things like streaming video, online gaming, and connected cars. 

5G networks will use a variety of technologies including millimeter wave spectrum, beamforming, and small cells. They are expected to be rolled out in 2020, and businesses should begin preparing for them now. To take advantage of 5G networks, businesses will need to update their devices and software to be compatible with 5G technology. Additionally, they will need to ensure that their infrastructure can handle the increased bandwidth demand. 

Edge Computing 

Edge computing is a type of computing where data is processed and analyzed near the edge of the network, as opposed to being sent to a centralized data center. This allows businesses to reduce latency and improve performance for time-sensitive applications. 

Edge computing can be used in a variety of settings, including industrial IoT applications, smart cities, and autonomous vehicles. It requires a network of distributed computing nodes that can process and analyze data in real-time. 

To take advantage of edge computing, businesses will need to update their devices and software to be compatible with edge computing technology. Additionally, they will need to ensure that their infrastructure can handle the increased bandwidth demand. 

Blockchain Technology 

Blockchain technology is a distributed database that allows for secure, transparent, and tamper-proof transactions. It is based on a network of computers that all agree on the validity of transactions. This makes it ideal for things like financial applications and supply chain management. 

To take advantage of blockchain technology, businesses will need to update their devices and software to be compatible with blockchain technology. Additionally, they will need to ensure that their infrastructure can handle the increased bandwidth demand. This may require investing in new hardware, software, and IT support. 

Virtual Reality 

Virtual reality refers to a computer-generated environment that can be interacted with using special headsets or gloves. It is used for training purposes, immersive gaming experiences, and other applications where 3D immersion is important. 

Cloud Computing 

Cloud computing is the ability to access information and applications over the Internet. This allows businesses to reduce their dependence on in-house IT infrastructure and save money on hardware and software. Cloud computing also makes it easier to scale up or down depending on your needs. 

Cybersecurity 

Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting your computer networks and data from unauthorized access or theft. It involves implementing security measures like firewalls, antivirus software, and user authentication protocols. 

3D Printing 

3D printing is the process of creating three-dimensional objects from a digital model. It involves printing successive layers of material until the object is complete. This allows businesses to create prototypes, models, and other customized products quickly and cheaply. 

Drones 

Drones are unmanned aerial vehicles that can be used for a variety of purposes, including surveillance, delivery services, and search and rescue operations. They are often equipped with advanced sensors and imaging systems that allow them to capture data more efficiently than humans. As such, they have become an important tool for businesses looking to improve efficiency and reduce costs. 

Many businesses are exploring the use of drones as a way to improve their operations. To take advantage of this technology, they will need to invest in drone hardware and software, as well as develop the capabilities needed to manage these systems effectively. Additionally, they will need to ensure that their infrastructure can handle the increased bandwidth demand from drones