Personal Information Management (PIM) Software

Powerhouse Technologies Group, Inc.

Guide to PIM Software

How the latest hand-held technology can boost your productivity
By Diane Benson Harrington

The more successful you are, the more apt you are to discover that pen and paper just doesn't do the trick anymore. The good news: You're just three steps away from letting pocket-sized technology make you organized and even more dynamic:

1. Evaluate your needs.
2. Take some test-drives.
3. Spend upfront time wisely.

Action Steps

The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Define your tasks PIM software can come packed with everything from Web browsers to document creation. Prioritize what you need the software to do for you.

I recommend:  If you just need a nudge for appointments and special dates, Unforgettable can work. To manage names, numbers and to-do's, look at a product like EssentialPIM. SoftForAll and FindApp.com provide reviews for dozens of PIM programs.

Check memory allocation Don't just consider your desktop's capabilities. Many PIM programs pack in a lot and take up substantial memory. Be sure your handheld device is up to the task.

I recommend:  The newer your handheld device, the more likely it is to have a larger storage capacity. MemoryTen lets you buy more memory for your product. Some handhelds, like Palm Tungsten, have flash memory that saves your information even if you haven't recharged.

Try before you buy User-friendly is subjective. Take advantage of product demos that let you test-drive software to be sure it works well for YOU.

I recommend:  EssentialPIM and AMF's PIM and Daily Planner have free downloadable demos. Others, like UltraRecall, have demo screenshots you can view.

Make sure it plays well with others Carve out plenty of time to plug in all your information and learn how the program works on its own and how it interacts with your other applications. Good PIM software will work seamlessly with your other programs to save you unnecessary keystrokes.

I recommend:  The more recognizable names tend to have the most crossover potential: ACT, Now Up-To-Date, Outlook and others.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• For the ultimate versatility, choose software that works with both PCs and Macs.
• Bells and whistles are great, but they take up space. If you don't need them, look for more streamlined software.
• Talk to your tech guy. He may have strong opinions on which software syncs best with your company's computers.
• Don't skip the tutorial. The more you know, the better your software will work for you.
• Tuck spare batteries for your palm-sized device in your briefcase.