With my Web phone I can connect myself quickly and without bothering my client. And my ability to connect so quickly and easily makes a VERY good impression on even most reluctant potential client! After I'm done they all want to know how I "did that"! I had one client take a sour look at his own cellular phone and toss it across his desk. "Another 18 months on that contract but I don't care. I'm getting one of these," he said as he admired my Sprint PCS setup.

There must be dozens of circumstances where almost anyone doing business on Net could benefit from a Sprint PCS phone and Web Connectivity Kit. Some I've mentioned here from my own experience, and other circumstances may be unique to your own business or situation. Whether you have been thinking of getting a wireless connection for some time or you are just learning that it’s possible today, don't let a fear of technology stop you. As I've said before, this is almost "dummy proof" to set up, and connecting to Net is really as simple as anything you may be using currently.

The cost involved isn't that bad either, unless you don't already have a laptop. I can't imagine lugging that faithful old Gateway CPU and 21-inch monitor off to park. Besides, where would your desktop power plug go, unless you have a 16-mile-long extension cord. No, a laptop is pretty much a requirement, to use this neat new technology while you also enjoy fresh air and life outside cubicle.

In addition to laptop, all you will need is a Sprint PCS Wireless Web phone and Connectivity Kit. No, a regular PCS phone or a PrimeCo phone won't work. The phone HAS to be a Sprint "Web ready" phone in order to be able to receive data.

I spent about $175 on my phone and Web Connectivity kit was just $99. The kit includes cable you need to connect your phone to your laptop, a setup manual, a CD with software you need, and a cable adapter for connecting handheld and palm-sized computers.

On Sprint site there is a four-step tour that explains just how easy it is to set up and use. Have a look around and see for yourself. Just click on Wireless data link and take tour:

http://www.lrsmarketing.com/wirelessweb.htm

So if you're like me and want a little freedom this summer, without abandoning your clients, or you'd just like to make your job a little easier, indoors or out, I definitely recommend getting connected with a Wireless Web phone. I haven't regretted it for a minute, and I may even have to apply a little sun screen lotion while I’m working with my clients this summer!

Services, not products - With emergence of Application Service Providers or ASP's and downfall of e-tailer, it is becoming increasingly clear that Internet will primarily provide services and applications in three areas: information, entertainment and communications.

Despite its flaws, Internet still serves as best way to find and collect information on any topic. Currently, this is primary use of Web, but for entertainment, we still rent videos or turn on TV, for communications, we still pick up phone.

In communications, growth of VoIP, v-commerce and wireless Internet technologies will ultimately pull us into using Internet as our primary source of communication. For entertainment, Internet already offers gaming, streaming video and downloadable audio, but these suffer from slow download times and Internet, application or browser bugs. Yet, higher bandwidth and broadband will ultimately make them as smooth and quick as a broadcast signal. Further, with merger of AOL and Time-Warner along with proliferation of cable modems and set top boxes, Internet will consume a greater chunk of entertainment pie. On demand movies, games, music, even Internet "television" shows will rival networks, video stores, satellite TV, merchandise, etc.

Simply understanding emerging trends in technology can be a competitive advantage. But building that knowledge and further applying it to your strategy, website or company can help you adjust, position and succed in changing, chaotic landscape.