Q/A Friday: What are 5 essential pieces of technology that I shouldn’t be living without?

Q: Tech is amazing, but also expensive and ever-changing. Without bankrupting myself, what are five pieces that I absolutely must have to improve my professional (and personal) life?

A: It’s no lie... I am definitely someone who would have the latest-and-greatest everything if I could! Unfortunately, that’s not always possible, but there are five pieces of equipment that I absolutely CANNOT live without, and any agent worth their salt shouldn't either.

1. SMART PHONE

iPhone? Android? Whichever you prefer. The really key thing is that you get a data plan- without one, a smart phone is really rather dumb, wouldn’t you say? Make sure you get a data plan that will fit your needs. Be sure you monitor your usage as overage charges are no laughing matter! Key Ingredients: Data Plan, Web Capable, Email, Texting, Camera Anything more only matters if you will use it. The same goes for apps. Things that should be second-nature: Email and texting, getting a map or navigation, taking and sharing photos/video (via email, text or social network), using any app that you download

2. LAPTOP

I wish I didn’t have to have this in the list, but it continues to surprise me how many people either don’t have laptops or don’t take them out of their homes… that’s why you got a laptop! The good news is that pretty much every lap top made today comes standard with the key ingredients below. Key Ingredients: Plenty of hard drive space (at least 320gb), Decent Processor & RAM, Built-in camera, WiFi/Bluetooth capable, CD/DVD burner, Enough ports for your peripherals (USB/Firewire are essential, eSATA and HDMI are a bonus) Things that should be second-nature: connecting to a wireless network, opening and using programs, organization & folder structure (where you save your documents) Regarding Size: I love my 17.1” desktop replacement enough that I don’t mind lugging it around, but if size/weight are what keep you from bringing your laptop to the office or into the field, don’t go for something that big! A 15" screen will suffice. Regarding Macs: If you would prefer a Mac, make sure you are aware of any restrictions with the systems you currently use. For example, it has historically been difficult to use a Mac with the MLS. Be aware of  limitations and bring a list to the Apple Store to discuss with a Genius.

3. BACK UP PLAN

That lovely laptop full of your data is useless if it is lost, stolen, or damaged beyond repair. If you only take one piece of advice from me, please let it be to back up your data. You truly never know if (or when) something might happen. Key Ingredients: Automatic/Scheduled Backups, Backup Software (for external drives), Ability to back up large or hidden files such as an Outlook PST file External VS Cloud-based: If you are picking between one or the other, I would recommend cloud-based storage such as Carbonite. An external drive is great for quick, local file recovery, however that will only be effective if a) you make sure it is backed up on a regular basis and b) the external drive is undamaged or not taken in the event of theft. Bonus: Most cloud-based storage comes with a web interface and smart device apps, allowing you to access your data from anywhere.

4.  CAMERA 

Still camera? Yes. Video camera? Yes, that too. Got one that does both? Even better, but is it easy for you to edit that video or put it on YouTube? If not, you might want to consider a pocket camera such as a Creative Vado or Kodak Zi. Key Ingredients: Easy for you to use, Easy to upload, Easy to edit, High Definition video (at least 720) A note about phone cameras: As I said above, you should absolutely have a camera on your smart phone, but you should still consider a standalone. Does your take high quality pictures for your listings? Is the video clear and easy to edit? If the answer to these questions is yes, I give you permission to skip this category. If not, you know what to do.

5. CLOUD-BASED SYSTEMS

Do you keep notes via scraps of paper and Post-Its? Stop! There are plenty of cloud-based (meaning accessible via the internet, and usually with an app for your smartphone) services to help keep track of notes, tasks and contacts. Not only are these cloud-based systems convenient, they help to ensure that you have the same information available on your computer or phone or between teammates and assistants. I've named several task management apps below; test them out to decide which one best fits your needs. Key Ingredients: Easy for you to use The Big Key: Force yourself to commit to these systems. Resist the urge to write something on a note pad and instead take out your smartphone or enter it on your computer. Systems I recommend: Google Apps (Contacts, Calendar, Documents), Evernote, Springpad, Astrid Tasks, Producteev, TaskOS, Any.Do Bonus: Many of these systems are free; some have a Pro option for more capability.

So, tell me: What are your most essential pieces of tech?