Farm Progress

Make your tech life easier in the new year.

Jessica Michael 1, Blogger

January 4, 2017

2 Min Read
ijeab/Thinkstock

It’s a new year and a fresh start, and while you have some downtime, it is an excellent opportunity to think about technology resolution for a better you and a better smart office.

Empty your inbox

If you have let your email pile up throughout the year, now is the time to trash, spam, unsubscribe and organize your inbox. Want an easy way to start fresh? Move all of those files into a folder labeled “2016 and prior.”

Meet your digital assistant
Whether you use Siri, Cortana, Google Now or Alexa, spend some time getting to know your digital assistant better. Use the tools provided by Apple, Microsoft, Google and Amazon to learn more about their capabilities and how they can aid you in a more efficient smart office. From weather and market updates to scheduling appointments, these digital agents can help you to get information and get things done!

Get smart

Smart tech can assist you in managing your security, lighting, locks and your thermostat. Moreover, it can add convenience and save you money. Consider one piece of smart technology to integrate into your farm office this year.

Secure your digital presence

Stop using the same password for every login, and utilize a password manager like LastPass. Also, check if your accounts have authentication options – especially your financial accounts. Are your files secure also? Consider backup options for your digital files this year.

Replace and recycle

Have old technology laying around the office? Perhaps you have too many devices – you can consolidate your fax, printer and copier into one! Or maybe you need to get a smartphone – take the leap in 2017. Check out these tips to purge old office technology.  

Keep learning

Learn something new this year. Technology is constantly evolving, and new products emerge every day. It’s okay to ask for help so that you can become more familiar with the tools available to you. Follow the blogs at FarmFutures.com, get a how-to from a vendor, take a class or ask a tech-savvy friend to help.

What’s your new year’s technology resolution? Tell me about it in the comments below, on Twitter @nerdsquawk or via email at [email protected].

 

The opinions of the author are not necessarily those of Farm Futures or Penton Agriculture.

About the Author(s)

Jessica Michael 1

Blogger

Jessica Michael is a certified nerd who owns a technology solutions consulting business in Decatur, Ill. She has studied technology and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Studies and a Master’s Degree in Communication from the University of Illinois. Do you have a farm office or tech question?  Connect via Twitter @nerdsquawk or e-mail her at [email protected]

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