Small Business and the iPhone go Hand in Hand

I’ll admit it right upfront: I’m Mac trapped inside PC’s body. I’ve been operating on Microsoft based PCs since they were invented. Being a software developer for Microsoft Windows based software a majority of my adult life, I’ve come to know Windows very well. However, through no fault of my own, I’m now a Mac fan. Much of my happiness with Apple stems from my purchase of an iPhone on release day nearly 1 year ago.

OK - So, I’m also an early adopter. I can’t help it, I love technology; I also love to stand in line. Put those two together and I’ve done my fair share of waiting in line for the next “big” thing. But most small business owners are probably not early adopters, and hate standing in line. Since the iPhone has been out for nearly a year, it’s safe to buy one now and not look like a geek. But, it’s time to take a good look at if and how this device can help you and your small business.

Many small business owners and operators wonder if the iPhone is actually a worthy purchase for business purposes. It runs in the neighborhood of $400 and requires a 2-year AT&T contract at a minimum of $60 per month (includes unlimited data). Well, from personal experience, it has become an indispensable part of my business life. I’ll start by saying that any business owner who likes to keep in touch with other business contacts (vendors, customers, etc.), but cannot always be in front of a computer and telephone, should own an iPhone.

First of all, the iPhone is hands down the simplest and best smart phone in existence. I’ve owned a lot of smart phones, personal digital assistants, and cell phones. I’ve used many more. Without a doubt, I use the iPhone far more than I ever used any other portable device. The simple fact is that it integrates the Internet with your communications so much better than any other device.

Every business owner owns a cell phone. But with more and more communication migrating to emails, text messages, and social networking, it’s time to look at a device that can help you keep in contact in the myriad of ways that you need to, but also keep it simple. That’s what it comes down to isn’t it? How simple can you make communications with customers and vendors?

Here’s some of the major ways you can communicate with your iPhone. You can send and receive emails as easily as you do on your computer. You can make and receive telephone calls. You can review voice mails out of order with the caller visually identified. You can text message another cellphone. You can get mapped directions with a satellite view to any address in the US. You can take and email pictures. You can check and update your schedule. You can save and review contacts. You can visit any web page on the Internet.

If the iPhone were what it is out of the box it would be worth every penny. However, it’s not just what it is out of the box. There are hundreds of websites and applications already specially designed for the iPhone. Everything from games to improving productivity. In addition, they are about to start selling software made specifically for the iPhone. The possibilities are endless.

At this point there is only one reason for a small business owner to NOT own and iPhone: cost. If you have to get out of a contract with another carrier, or you can’t afford the upfront phone cost, or you can’t afford the increased cost of unlimited data access, then the iPhone is not for you. But, if none of those issues are yours, go get one - you will not be disappointed.

According to many rumors floating around the Internet, iPhone version 2 is about to hit the streets. Rumors say it will have faster Internet, include GPS, and allow for video conferencing. In addition, rumors are saying that AT&T will start subsidizing the iPhone like they do with other phones. Making it even more economically feasible for small business owners to purchase an iPhone. Melanie Brooks in this blog on MaineBusiness.com wonders who’ll be getting the next iPhone. I’ll see you all in line! Oh, and if you’ve got spare time and you like to laugh, click my signature.

Dan
Hi my name is Dan Freeman and I’m an Apple fanboy