Are you a gadget junkie?

I admit it: I'm a gadget junkie. I really like new, fun technology and if I can write it off, er, I mean, use it for business, that's a bonus. We all use gadgets such as laptops, smart phones, wireless headsets and Bluetooth. I've added other “toys” in my office, including a giant, flat-screen smart TV in the conference room, intra-office messaging, a portable mini-projector, VoIP phones, and dual monitors and scanners at every desk. Lately, I've been thinking about going further with technology. I'm pretty sure I'll follow through with my first two initiatives. I will need to do more research on the latter two. Here they are: 1. Tablets for each employee: I have a goal of totally eliminating paper at work. At this point, we use paper primarily for note-taking. Having tablets with a wireless connection to our computers would allow for electronic note-taking and easy, one-step file saving. The tablets could also be used for presentations as an alternative to printing documents. (Client copies can be emailed.) 2. Cameras and microphones on each computer: To encourage video meetings, this is a must! 3. Electronic whiteboard: These are cool. When speaking to a group, a presenter can illustrate points on the whiteboard, which will capture images electronically. The benefits? Easy file saving and sharing. And … it impresses the audience! 4. Large touch-screen “all-in-one” computer: This is way cool, reminding me of sci-fi movies! The huge screen can even be a table top, allowing for interactive presentations to clients. Imagine the fun of playing with live “what if” financial planning scenarios with clients! Should I take the leap? All of them? Maybe I should consider other gadgets as well... Sheryl Rowling is chief executive of Total Rebalance Expert and principal at Rowling & Associates. She considers herself a nontechie user of technology.