Biz Bits
The latest essential buys for business travelers
While an assortment of ports was once required to connect keyboards, mice, printers and joysticks, the advent of the USB port has simplified the process, making connecting devices easier than ever. In many cases, the drivers for USB devices are already installed in the system, allowing for true plug-andplay compatibility.
On the Go Plantronics Voyager 510 USB
www.plantronics.com • $199
This headset off ers wireless connectivity and is ideal for professionals on the go, in or out of the office. The system features a USB Bluetooth adapter, enabling instant, wireless access to desk phones. With exclusive multipoint technology, users can seamlessly switch between their desk phone and mobile phone at the touch of a button.
Big Top VAT19 USB Cannon www.vat19.com • $34.95
Relieve stress not only through exercise and yoga, but also by bringing a bit of circus fun into the office. Plug this cannon into your computer and use the keyboard to aim and fire foam shells at workmates. It will tilt, rotate and fire at your command.
Cup of Joe USB Geek Café Pad www.usbgeek.com • $17
Rather than having to gulp down tepid tea or sip on cooled coff ee, keep everything inside your morning mug at just the right temperature. This stainless steal heating pad is USB-powered and serves as the perfect coaster.
No Strings Attached Belkin Network USB Hub www.belkin.com • $130
The Hub works with an existing router to provide wireless access to printers, media readers and external hard drives. It simulates a direct USB connection, so the computer thinks the devices are attached directly.
According to U.S. News & World Report, the following universities have been rated as America’s top five business schools for 2008
It’s not easy being a marketing professional these days, with a whole host of challenges making it tougher to reach today’s more savvy and cynical customers. However, in Truth: The New Rules for Marketing in a Skeptical World (AMACOM Books, $24.95), brand and marketing consultant Lynn Upshaw shows that it is possible to still achieve marketing success. Upshaw’s straightforward strategy revolves around one thing: integrity. Here are some tips from the man himself, also a member of the MBA faculty at UC Berkley’s Hass School of Business
Nothing BUT THE TRUTH
1. Customer Strategy
“It’s not just about selling to people anymore. We’re in the business of creating partnerships with customers that are driven by integrity, where there’s a mutual reward for our customers and ourselves.”
2. Product Strategy
“I recommend marketing products with integrity, meaning marketers need to put themselves in the position of the consumer. Ask yourself, ‘Would I sell this product to my best friend? Does its performance hold up under the toughest scrutiny?’”
3. Competitive Strategy
“We’re always going after a bigger share of the market. What we should be looking for is credibility. Certain auto companies, for example, have more credibility than others. That’s the share of the market we should be thinking about, not just in terms of sales, but in terms of credibility.”
4. Value Strategy
“Value is defined as two things: price and quality. If you can convince the customer that you are operating with integrity, your value in the marketplace goes up significantly.”
5. Communications Strategy
“Promoting honestly, and not invasively, is a big issue now. The consumer is saying you’re not invited to my party, and we’re surprising them in the shower. There are so many instances with people seeing commercial messages when they don’t want to. You have to respect your consumer’s privacy.”