Seven Technologies I Really Like

January 11, 2009 Dennis D. McDonald

OK, it’s list time. Here are some technologies I really like, and why:

iPod
Music eCommerce sites
Wireless computer networks
Cellphones
Online Library Catalogs
Podcasts
Google Docs

iPod

Imagine carrying a couple hundred music albums around, indexed every which way, with an easy to use interface that allows quick navigation of a huge volume of music. Plus I can copy my contact list with phone numbers on to it.

I look at my old albums and CD’s and just shake my head.

Music eCommerce sites

I’m reading “Music, History, and Ideas” by Hugo Leichtentritt. I come across a reference to a composer I have no familiarity with. I log onto eMusic, locate the work, download it into iTunes on my PC, then I copy it into my iPod.

No gasoline expended.

Wireless computer networks

I can sit outside on my deck in warm weather and update my blog while I smell the fresh air.

Side benefit: no tripping over cables.

Cellphones

When my plane touches down at DCA I call home. When I emerge from the terminal with my luggage my ride is there to pick me up.

Online Library Catalogs

I hear about an interesting book and go online to the Alexandria Public Library’s catalog. I request the book from the collection. A few days later I get an email saying it’s ready to borrow at the main facility.

To think I once made a living hand lettering labels for a public library’s card catalog!

Podcasts

I set up my subscription in iTunes for the BBC History Magazine Podcast. When the next issue is available it’s automatically downloaded to my connected iPod.

Google Docs

I complete a draft of a client document on Google Docs. I send the client an email with a link to the document. He can start reading it online even as I continue to make edits and changes.