So, back to my iPad. I've been asked numerous times if it was worth the money. Here's my answers and experience with it so far...
Do you need one?
Put simply, no, I don't need one but I certainly can see the benefit in having one and I am quickly finding that I'm becoming more and more dependent on it!
I've always been the type of person who likes a written diary - something that everyone I spoke to said was old school! Since getting my iPad I've migrated to an electronic diary. I'll be honest, I struggled with this at first but I'm starting to trust that my appointments will not just disappear if the system crashes (or I accidentally delete them which would be the most likely cause).
It's fantastic for using the Internet and loads up in just a few seconds. I'm sure you've had those moments when you need to quickly look something up but can't be bothered to boot the computer - the iPad is the perfect solution.
I like to read and personally prefer reading from a screen (although I know this is not the case for a lot of people). I've always thought that I didn't have time to read but the iPad has resulted in me finding time. You can also try books before you buy - a great feature that comes as part of the Kindle app. E-books are also often a lot cheaper than print books and take up a lot less space!
There's also the iPod. I've begun using the iPad as a music player for my apartment as my CD player packed up a while ago and I didn't feel a need to replace it.
Is it worthwhile for business use?
Definitely! It's quickly becoming a vital part of my working life! I would recommend downloading the Pages, Keynote and Numbers apps though.
When attending meetings to discuss proposals I take my iPad as everything I need is at my fingertips. It's also great for meetings and interview as you can add your agenda or questions and take notes without having to keep switching pages (I think this is only something I appreciated once I began using it). It's also great for small presentations.
If you travel regularly, the size and weight of the iPad is ideal for taking on trips. It fits in my bag, is ideal for travelling on a train or plane and it doesn't take up much space when you're using it.
The battery life is fantastic - I believe you're looking at around 10 hours although I haven't put this to the test yet!
And the negatives...
I generally don't use the iPad for my emails as I find my BlackBerry is more effective. I also find that not being able to use folders in the Numbers, Pages and Keynote apps is a huge downfall as your documents are not well organised.
One massive frustration is transferring documents between these apps. You cannot save over old versions of documents and subsequently have to save a new copy each time you transfer a file from your computer to the iPad, or vice versa. I do believe there are apps that provide a solution to this issue.
Both of these issues are down to the apps and not the iPad though.
The other point I would like to highlight is that I'm currently using this alongside my MacBook and iPhone. I'm not sure how well the integration works when using with Windows. Please feel free to leave any comments if this is something you've done.
Do I go for WiFi or 3G?
I decided to go for the 3G version as I thought it was better to have the functionality than not. I was given a sim card with this and believe I can pay a one off charge of £2 per day should I need 3G access. This often proves to be cheaper than paying for hotel WiFi when I'm working away.
I could go on longer but hope this has helped if you're considering buying one.
The iPad is not a replacement for a laptop but definitely provides a range of benefits and improved convenience - especially if you travel a lot or sometimes find yourself printing unnecessary documents whilst at work.
I'd be happy to hear any comments and please do contact me if you have any further questions or would like any advice.
I'd also like to point out that I'm currently writing this post in the car whist travelling back from London as I've unfortunately missed my flight! Very glad I have it with me tonight!! :-) It's currently 1am so I hope it makes sense!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Didn't your diary help you to remember your flight then?
ReplyDeleteGreat review Jerri. We're thinking of getting an ipad for work/presentations. Have you used yours for presentations at all? If so, how did you find it?
ReplyDeleteYes Michael. I've used it for presentations and it's good. They've normally only been to small groups, however I believe you can buy a lead if you want to link it up to a screen/projector. I would recommend getting one!
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately it does have its limitations! I knew what time the flight was but the meeting I was at finished late. It allowed me to do lots of work on the way home though.
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