What is the Chicago Tourist App?

Are you looking for pop culture sights or politically charged and historically significant locations? What about meeting your need for all things musical or finding out more about Chicago sports’ history? Make your next trip to the Windy City the most exciting, relevant tour you’ve ever taken when you download the $2.99 app to your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. Using your current location, the app displays a map with a list of nearby events and the distance from your current location to events that interest you. The app also reveals the event’s website, if applicable, where you can find additional information like tour hours or costs.

In addition to visiting great sights, the app helps you create a customized tour and assist future travelers. The app allows previous users to leave feedback like detailed descriptions of a sight or a rank from one to five. Use this feedback to search for interesting sights. For instance, if you love musicals but are not interested in sports, search for musical sights of all ranks but select sports sights with a rank of three or higher. While you can easily customize your experience, the following list offer a few suggestions to get you started.

Broadway

For musical enthusiasts, Chicago’s theater district offers unparalleled opportunities. View a show at one of several theaters along the Broadway in Chicago or take a behind the scenes Chicago Theater Tour. In addition to live theater, enjoy live music when you visit Buddy Guy’s Legends or other clubs. You can also use the Chicago App to visit the locations where your favorite performers and show participants live, work and eat.

Chicago Art Institute

Admire great works of drawn, painted and sculpted art completed by artists throughout the centuries when you visit the Art Institute of Chicago. You can also sign up for a family-friendly activity like painting or yoga that your entire crew will appreciate.

Second City

Not only will you laugh aloud, but also you will see the stage that introduced Alan Arkin, John Belushi, Martin Short, Tina Fey and other legends to the world. Visit Second City for a behind-the-scenes tour and to meet up and coming comedy stars.

Shedd Aquarium

Explore exhibits and meet animals from every ecological location in the world at Shedd Aquarium. Use the app to connect to the aquarium’s website where you learn more about their discount program or purchase advance tickets.

Sports Teams

Sports enthusiasts love Chicago. Find professional baseball, basketball, football, hockey and soccer games as well as sports-related sites throughout the city. If you would rather play, find local parks and recreational centers where you can participate in a friendly game with locals.

Taste of Chicago

If you love great food, coordinate your trip with the Taste of Chicago event held in July. Don’t miss the live musical and theater performances that allow visitors to explore Chicago’s musical roots and culinary masterpieces.

Bring Chicago’s history, culture and traditions to life when you use the Chicago tourist app. Customize your tour, leave feedback for other travelers and share your adventures via Twitter and Facebook. If you’re looking to explore the heart of Chicago, download this app and enjoy a personalized travel experience.

While it’s plausible that business-driven mobile apps can help boost revenue, the details are a little fuzzy as to what they actually accomplish.

Problem #1: Developing Your Own App May Not Be a Sure Thing

In the age of digital, accessibility is a driving force behind everything we do. With a few taps on your smartphone’s touchscreen, you have access to your favorite games, products and services. With this in mind, many small businesses are turning to app development as a revenue driver. The problem with the assertion that mobile apps drive revenue has to do with resource management. Most small businesses do not have a large surplus of cash to throw at smartphone application development. Not only must you pay a developer to create your app, but you must also pay for regular updates, and the implementation of new features to meet the demanding needs for new mobile operating systems.

Problem #2: The App Marketplace is Overcrowded

According to a recent CNBC article, there are over 1.1 million apps in the Android, BlackBerry, Windows and iOS app stores combined. While you may have deployed a sexy new smartphone app, your customers must be able to find it. The problem doesn’t end there, unfortunately. According to the mobile app analytics firm, Localytics, more than 26 percent of all smartphone users download an app, and never use it again.

Some Good News

Fortunately, there is some light at the end of the mobile development tunnel. The reality is that we live in an increasingly mobile world. There’s a reason there are over a million apps available for smartphone users — because there are a ton of smartphone users out there. On top of that, over 61 percent of smartphone users use their phones to find local businesses. This means that mobile users are a prime target market for small business owners.

The Mobile Website: A Plausible Revenue Driver

We’ve established the problems with using mobile apps as a sales driver, but it’s crucial to understand the importance of zoning in on the mobile market. For small businesses, a mobile website may be a more plausible solution. Many mobile websites can be built, deployed and maintained for a small fraction of what it would cost deploy a smartphone app.

At the end of the day, you must stick to what works best for your business needs. Whether this means a mobile application, a mobile website or something in between is a matter of resource allocation.

High speed internet is known as broadband. In the early days of the internet most users had dial-up. Dial up had speeds of 56k. Nowadays with broadband speeds are up to 512 kb. Broadband usually comes into your home or office via DSL, cable or satellite. Most people use either DSL or cable. Satellite can be quite a bit slower – and is usually used in rural areas where DSL and cable are not available.

When you access broadband the amount of data you will be able to access relies on the bandwidth that is available. Your internet provider should be able to inform you of your bandwidth. They may have many users on the network at one time and this may affect the bandwidth. It is worth checking that the amount they promised it what you are receiving. Testing will help you figure out your bandwidth at different times of the day or week.

Usually you can check the speed of your internet without uploading any software on to your computer. It requires a small data file being transferred to your computer from the test server and then returning it back to the server. It does not install anything on your computer. There are quite a few sites that offer internet speed tests. Look for a reliable one.

Enterprise Resource Planning solutions (ERP’s) are already used by various businesses who wish to integrate all facets of an operation into one, easy to navigate system. This means that all aspects of a company, from manufacturing systems to the marketing and retail processes are all available to use, update and add to (in real-time) so that all records remain current and accurate. This, of course, is a huge advantage to businesses; however, many make costly mistakes when educating users on how to use such a solution. In fact, due to poor levels of training, these so-called solutions can turn into computer nightmares for managers and CEO’s.

When an ERP system is used to its full potential, it acts as a revolutionary tool, however if managed poorly, the cost of implementing such a structure can become a real hindrance. When training any user or users on these types of software programs, it is important to avoid these common mistakes:

Failing to Prepare

Preparation is always, or should be, the most important part of any activity. Without a sufficient level of arrangement, training sessions can become unorganised and confusing for all those present. The people who will be using the system are not attending to sit an examination on the ins and outs of ERP solutions but are instead interested in understanding the navigation techniques and why it is beneficial to them. Detail will be needed but do try to avoid overloading trainees with irrelevant information or background about the systems as this will overwhelm and discourage them. Draw up a realistic plan of what you wish to discuss, how you intend to demonstrate and highlight what is important and what is not. After this, devise a lesson plan. If this plan is stuck to, staff will be more inclined to listen, engage, learn and be encouraged to use this new software package to its full potential.

Failing to Educate

Of course staff and users are going to need to know and fully understand how to use an ERP system to help with their daily tasks and duties. However, just knowing ‘how’ to use a type of software is not the same as knowing ‘why’. For example, a member of staff who works in the manufacturing department of a business may be aware of how to input data and information accurately into the system but unaware of why this will benefit the sales or marketing team and administrators. By being aware of why such a solution is beneficial to the company as a whole, mistakes can be reduced and accuracy will become essential for those who use it on a regular basis. Also, if a problem with the software occurs, those who understand the overall nature of the program will be able to diagnose and amend the problem.

Failing to Recognise Staff’s Worries

It may become clear, once the implementation is in progress, that a large number of staff are displaying a high level of negative attitude. This shouldn’t be punished. Change is a daunting and difficult process and many people struggle to adjust. This can be a particular problem amongst new employees or those who have only recently learnt how to use a previous software system. It is important to encourage users and remain upbeat about the new solution. If managers, IT staff and CEO’s are all enthusiastic and passionate about the implementation and are constantly informing employees of its advantages to both them and the company as a whole then staff will be more inclined to share a general interest and be inspired to learn more about such a beneficial tool.

Public Library Downloads

Since September, public libraries around the country have had the ability to lend eBooks to library patrons via their Kindle devices.  More than 11,000 libraries are part of the program that allows readers to visit the library’s website, search the available eBooks, and instantly download the chosen book.

An active library card is necessary, and often there are regional groups of libraries that will allow reciprocal privileges. This means if your library does not have what you are looking for, another close library may offer it.

When you pick the books you want, you then click ‘send to Kindle’ and the book downloads instantly to your Smartphone if you have a Kindle app, or your Kindle reader. Each library has control over which eBooks are available for download, and the length of time you have to “borrow” it. Most work the same way, however, in that the book automatically vanishes from your device and is then available in the library again after your lending time is expired. Libraries have joined the cause as a way to re-engage people with their public libraries.

Amazon Prime Lending Library

If your reading style does not align well with your public library’s catalog of available eBooks, you can check into the lending library at Amazon, by paying a premium for membership in Amazon Prime.  It is a digital lending service that is akin to Netflix; in other words, a “pay to borrow” concept.

For a nominal subscription fee, subscribers have access to borrowing books from an extensive list of titles (5,000 at last count) and you can keep it for as long as you want. Amazon does not delete the files from your device at any point, as with the public library programs.  A couple of drawbacks are that you can only use it on a Kindle device, and not a Smartphone or other device with the Kindle program, and you are limited to downloading one book per month.

Amazon Prime is a comprehensive service that allows free two-day shipping on items ordered from Amazon, unlimited movie and TV show streaming, and now free borrowing of Kindle books. It is an enhancement to a loyalty-building program, and not just a stand-alone subscription to the library, and the annual cost is $79. If you order from Amazon a lot, it is probably a good deal for you. It is easy to find streaming TV shows and movies free online, and the library programs can handle most of your reading reads. Weigh your options before you commit to this paid program.

Denise Gabbard is a writer and blogger; she likes to tackle topics about saving money in all areas, from technology to travel, and personal finance to motor fleet insurance.

The most safe and well known way to provide IT security is through digital encryption. Digital encryption scrambles data so that it can only be accessed by those with specific authority. This usually involves security optimised passwords and helps prevent potential data thieves from getting their hands on anything at all.

However, in the past software encryption as been attributed to factors such as: A lack of performance, a reduced level of interoperability, complex management systems and maybe most importantly, a much higher cost. Because of these reasons, software encryption has at times, failed to meet the high expectations required of it and as a result, been slow at entering the market as a viable, secure solution.

More recently these issues are becoming a thing of the past as technological advancements as encryption developers have set about fixing these issues and eradicating the problems that were once associated with the technology. The overall effect is that encryption systems more affordable, easier to use and much more efficient and reliable. This couldn’t be happening at a much better time; with high profile hacking cases and security failures taking place within the public sector, the demand for efficient protection is at an all time high.

One of the major changes in encryption is the development of “evolving” technology that operates underneath a computer’s OS.  This approach uses hardware encryption drives which can be fitted as either a component in a new system or installed to act retroactively within an old system.

The way hardware encryption operates under the application level of a computer results in a minimum reduction is computer system performance, which is far superior to the results of encryption software. Also, due to the fact the encryption comes as hardware, there are no annoying licence agreements or maintenance and programme updates. Once the hard drive is fitted, all data will be automatically encrypted.
Unlike a software solution, hardware encryption methods do not rely on the OS for the creation and storage of security passwords. Instead, encryption hardware will store passwords within the protection of the hard drive itself. This reduces the complexities associated with password management, creating a more advanced and secure security option.

On the cost front, you could be forgiven for assuming hardware encryption solutions would be absurdly expensive, but you couldn’t be more wrong. Hardware encryption devices may seem expensive due to the initial cost, but are much more likely to prove less expensive in the long run as encryption software comes with many hidden costs that include: necessary updates, annual license fees, staff training and tech support and even server infrastructure changes you may have to make to accommodate your encryption software. With all this in mind, encryption hardware is definitely one of the more, pardon the pun, secure investments you could make.

Initially, Netflix had split its services into distinct DVD and streaming services, but kept them both within the same company. This time, however, users would need separate accounts, separate queues and separate charges on their credit cards in order to enjoy both physical discs and streaming. News sites and blogs, however, focused on the future of the company, seeing the split almost as a death knell for DVDs, if not for Netflix as a whole. Some of the theories being floated around are that Netflix is looking to sell to another company. The two top companies people seem to be looking at are Facebook, one of the major hubs of any good social media marketing campaign, and Amazon, the biggest online retailer in the world. Why these two?

Facebook

Facebook’s latest Open Graph update has provided content providers easy access to the company’s hundreds of millions of users in addition to the powerful marketing capabilities of the platform. When Facebook users perform any action, their friends are alerted to it in the ticker, which allows media providers to increase the chances of people using their services. This would be a perfect platform for Netflix to use and a good addition to Facebook’s arsenal. Earlier this year, Facebook announced a forthcoming streaming movie service. Though that service doesn’t seem to have materialized, it could be a glimpse into the possible future of Facebook, which could gain the library, licenses and infrastructure already owned by Netflix, allowing it to quickly integrate streaming movies into its already robust social services.

Amazon

Amazon’s streaming video service already offers current television shows and many blockbuster movies, but they’re all on a per-view or purchase basis. Further, the library of content Amazon has is only a fraction of that offered by Netflix. The only real drawback to Amazon purchasing Netflix before was that, if they had a physical presence in the states they service—as they would if they offered physical DVDs to customers—they would be required to charge sales tax on orders, eliminating one of the main benefits of ecommerce. With Netflix spinning Qwikster off into its own service, however, that difficulty is eliminated. Netflix’s content coupled with Amazon’s considerably larger pocketbook would give both companies a serious boost and help Amazon secure another area of ecommerce dominance.

By using the Internet to search for life insurance quotes you can immediately compare prices between different companies.  Many companies offer a side by side approach where you can see instantly the items that are on the different policies and the price of the different options.  This will give you the opportunity to explore policies from around the country as opposed to businesses in your local area.

Whether its short term insurance or long term, whether its temporary or permanent you will get the information and quotes you need.  The information will be presented in an easy to understand way that will help you to understand, rather than to confuse you.  These programs are designed so that you know what information to provide when asked and then the program will spit out the information that you need.

Also the best rates may not be in your area and so by looking through a larger group of providers that chances increase that you will end up with the best price.   These companies know that the field is competitive and so will usually put their best rates upfront to ensure success when compared with others.

Searching online is a great time saver, especially if you make use of the side by side approach.  You only have to enter your information once and let their software do the work, rather than in the past where you had to approach multiple companies and give each of them you information.  Also you can do your research whenever you have the time.  You are not restricted to business hours.  The internet is always open for business.  And of course you are under no obligation with this type of comparison and your information is always private and for the purpose of selling life insurance.

Spectrum Insurance Group is in the business of giving the consumers unbiased, objective information on their life insurance needs.  Their goal is to inform and provide an accurate life insurance quote.  In addition to providing a comparison of quotes they will complete the work on the application, arrange free medicals and provide any follow ups to ensure that the consumer gets the best possible service and insurance planning.

What Kind of Growth Is Expected?

Making a dedicated hardware purchase locks a company into that hardware, meaning that if they need to expand more they will have to purchase additional hardware to compensate. Cloud hosts that provide, web hosting, data processing and Software as a Service have the ability to scale individual clients’ resources to match their current and future needs. When a company expects rapid growth in usage, they can reconfigure their services to match their projected needs.

How Much Will It Cost?

The cost of regular hardware upgrades can be prohibitive, particularly to smaller businesses. The efficacy of purchasing new hardware versus what is essentially renting the necessary resources from a cloud provider can be difficult to determine without proper investigation. A cloudservice provides its clients with a recurring monthly bill while the cost of dedicated, in-house equipment is spread out among several areas. The cost of the physical equipment must be taken into consideration, but it doesn’t end there. The time and money spent managing the hardware, the resources expended on providing adequate space for servers and the cost of powering the equipment can add up and should be taken into consideration when deciding between an upgrade and a shift to the cloud.

How Long Will It Be Useful?

Dedicated servers require upgrades or replacements every few years to keep up with a company’s growing demands. When the time comes to replace equipment a company not only has to pay for the new hardware, but also determine what to do with their old hardware. Sometimes the cost of the new equipment can be offset by selling the old or the company can gain tax benefits from donating certain parts to non-profit organizations, but the up-front cost remains high. By switching to a cloud provider, however, a company gains the benefit of nearly immediate upgrades while only having to pay a monthly fee. Furthermore, there is no down time or low availability during a cloud upgrade, which helps keep productivity high.

How Often Will It Be Used?

Successful businesses tend to upgrade and expand their IT equipment when they perceive an upcoming need rather than when they have reached their limits. Every company needs to have room to grow with their current server solution and must have the resources available to deal with usage spikes. When purchasing dedicated equipment, this can lead to purchasing equipment that can meet these peak needs, but that spend most of their time idling. When a company makes use of a cloud computing environment, however, they can easily scale back their resources during off-peak times and requisition more power when required, eliminating the underutilization of their servers.

What Services Will It Host?

Some services are best kept in-house, whether for low latency or security. Sensitive customer data, for instance, should remain internal and be closely guarded. For other uses, such as app development or file synchronization, a cloud solution will provide flexibility and accessibility.

Thomas Stone is a contributing author at Technected. During a recent robbery, when he lost his computer and external hard drives, he was glad that he’d backed most of his files up using anonline file storage service.

• Live Help Now
• Front Range
• SysAid
• Comm100
• Salesforce
• Kayako
• Issuetrak
• Everest Customer Service Software
• Zoho
• C3 Touch

If you investigate the above you will see the variety between them.  Do you have a customer service software package that you would like to recommend?  Lets hear from you….