(This column originally appeared in Forbes)
Here are five things in technology that happened this past week and how they affect your business. Did you miss them?
1 — Windows 11 is rolling out a new wave of features.
Microsoft is releasing new features for Windows 11 as part of the company’s “continuous innovation” model. The features — which will be introduced through Release Preview — include a new nearby sharing option for devices, taskbar overflow, Suggested Actions, and File Explorer. The first feature will start being introduced to Windows 11 users in October and to additional users in November. (Source: ZDNet)
Why this is important for your business:
Did you know that Windows 11 has been out for a year now? For me — and my business — there are no compelling reasons to force an upgrade on my staff, even with these new features. Most of us are using Windows 10 without issues, just so long as Microsoft keeps current with updated security releases. But, as sure as death and taxes, we’ll be in the Windows 11 world eventually. However, I wouldn’t worry about moving to Windows 11 until it’s time to replace hardware. You won’t have a choice then anyway.
2- Jotform Sign launches as a new, automated player in the e-signature space.
Leading online forms SaaS solution Jotform recently launched a new e-signature product powered by automation features. The new product — called Jotform Sign — enables businesses to easily send out documents with less setup time than traditional options. Jotform Sign uses automation features such as helpful integrations, limitless customization options, and advanced field detection. (Source: PRNewsWire)
Why this is important for your business:
There are many players in the document signing space but I like what Jotform’s offering for a few reasons. For starters, it’s more affordable, given the features it provides compared to its competitors. I like Jotform’s ease of use. I like how simple it is to setup custom forms with automation and integration to existing applications. There’s a reason why so many of my clients already use Jotform to capture data from their websites: it’s a very user-friendly platform that makes sense for many small businesses.
3 — A fired IT administrator crippled his former employer’s network using old credentials.
An IT system administrator recently caused a major disruption to his former employer’s operations. The Hawaii-based financial company terminated Casey K. Umetsu’s contract in 2019 after 3 years of him working there. Umetsu then used old credentials to access settings on the company website and make changes that caused several days of disruption. He said he did this in an effort to convince the company to hire him back for a higher salary. (Source: Bleeping Computer)
Why this is important for your business:
Doesn’t this story make you wonder? It made me wonder. Who — in 2022 — fires an employee, no less someone in the IT department — without taking the necessary steps to completely remove that employee’s access to systems? If you’re planning on terminating anyone make sure you plan ahead and make sure that employee has no access to your data.
4 — Here are 19 advanced Google search operators you need to know.
Digital marketing and advertising technology website Search Engine Land recently highlighted 19 advanced Google Search operators that will help business owners gain powerful insights to help inform marketing efforts. Some of the operators include site, cache, related, “inanchor,” and “allinanchor.” You can see the full list and descriptions here. (Source: Search Engine Land)
Why this is important for your business:
This is one of those articles that will come in handy when you need to do a targeted search on Google and you’re not getting the results you require. Bookmark it and share it with your employees. I did.
5- The groundbreaking AI platform Buildots has been named ‘Construction Software of the Year.’
Construction software platform Buildots was recently named “Construction Software of the Year” at the highly-regarded London Construction Awards. Buildots uses computer vision and artificial intelligence to drastically improve efficiency in construction. (Source: PRNewsWire)
Why this is important for your business:
Some of the cool features include a 360° camera mounted on hardhats to collect data that helps teams make critical decisions, a consolidated dashboard of critical information as well as scheduling and automation tools. It’s a nice platform that deserves consideration if you’re in the construction business.
