So I'm in Outlook 2010 and I had an email to send out to three different groups. I send the first one and promptly receive a reply pointing out a typo. I go to my sent mail to edit before sending the the other two groups and bam, it hits me, no "edit as new" function like they have in Thunderbird. Can they do this? Apparently they can......
Score TB 1 - OL 0
The information provided is intended to be general in nature. It is suggested that readers seek the advice of a CGA or other qualified professional for advice specific to their particular situation.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Free Software du Jour - TrueCrypt encryption software
This is a product I have been using for several months now. I originally downloaded it to address the concern of "OMG what happens if I lose my USB?" factor. Actually, what finally got me to address this concern was the purchase of a new network hard drive for the house. The network hard drive concept is totally cool - the security is ridiculous. One leetle paper clip in the reset button and that nasty problem of forgetting your passwork is handily trumped without in any way impacting on your files. Isn't that neat? So if somebody steals my hard drive, they can access a truckload of my confidential data with a paperclip. Wonder how much the credit card numbers are worth to the identity theft people? Enter TrueCrypt.
The benefit here is the ability to encrypt files on drives at low/no cost. Particularly useful for any one routinely carrying confidential information on a flash drive or portable hard drive.
TrueCrypt is encryption software, available for free, that has some slick, sophisticated capabilities that are sadly over my head (such as creating a hidden partition and encrypting an entire separate operating system). However, it also has useful, nuts and bolts features that most people with only a mild streak of techno-geekishness would be able to use. I put it this way because if you're not willing to read through the documentation - at least the beginner tutorial portion of it, or are intimidated by doing so, this is probably not a good adventure for you.
The basic functionality I am referring to will allow you to create an encrypted, password-protected "container" which TrueCrypt can then mount on a drive letter for you. Once mounted, your files are accessible by Windows and by programs just as if they were on any old drive letter. Anything you write to the drive is encrypted, anything you copy off the drive is not. This is on-the-fly encryption and decryption. One can also designate favourites and set them up to auto load. I'm using this product both on my network hard drive and on my USB key. It took a little getting used to, but has smoothed out nicely and I'm finding it's greatly increased my comfort zone about the data I keep in both places.
A cautionary note: Don't lose or forget your passwords! The road to hell is paved with forgotten passwords.
Here is a link to True Crypt's Website:
TrueCrypt
Here is a link to the Beginner's Tutorial I mentioned:
TrueCrypt Beginner's Tutorial
The information provided is intended to be general in nature. It is suggested that readers seek the advice of a CGA or other qualified professional for advice specific to their particular situation.
The benefit here is the ability to encrypt files on drives at low/no cost. Particularly useful for any one routinely carrying confidential information on a flash drive or portable hard drive.
TrueCrypt is encryption software, available for free, that has some slick, sophisticated capabilities that are sadly over my head (such as creating a hidden partition and encrypting an entire separate operating system). However, it also has useful, nuts and bolts features that most people with only a mild streak of techno-geekishness would be able to use. I put it this way because if you're not willing to read through the documentation - at least the beginner tutorial portion of it, or are intimidated by doing so, this is probably not a good adventure for you.
The basic functionality I am referring to will allow you to create an encrypted, password-protected "container" which TrueCrypt can then mount on a drive letter for you. Once mounted, your files are accessible by Windows and by programs just as if they were on any old drive letter. Anything you write to the drive is encrypted, anything you copy off the drive is not. This is on-the-fly encryption and decryption. One can also designate favourites and set them up to auto load. I'm using this product both on my network hard drive and on my USB key. It took a little getting used to, but has smoothed out nicely and I'm finding it's greatly increased my comfort zone about the data I keep in both places.
A cautionary note: Don't lose or forget your passwords! The road to hell is paved with forgotten passwords.
Here is a link to True Crypt's Website:
TrueCrypt
Here is a link to the Beginner's Tutorial I mentioned:
TrueCrypt Beginner's Tutorial
The information provided is intended to be general in nature. It is suggested that readers seek the advice of a CGA or other qualified professional for advice specific to their particular situation.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Open Source software - useful free stuff
Free stuff is always cool and more importantly can represent cost savings for businesses. In addition to which, I'm generally intrigued by the open source concept. I use a fair amount of open source software currently and am always on the lookout for something new and interesting to try.
Open source software has a huge umbrella embracing everything from operating systems (Linux, Ubuntu), to database software to web browsers and email/calendar clients (Firefox, Thunderbird), to office productivity programs, website and ecommerce software. In fact, you name it there is probably an open source application for it.
Open source intrigues me. It is the result of a massive organized effort by individuals around the world who write code because of a combination of idealistic beliefs and because they find it fun. Some open source applications are the de facto standard for the purpose they fulfill.
I currently use a number of applications that I think are useful options for smaller businesses and plan to cover these off in upcoming blogs. If you use any you think are really great, let me know - I might just write about it. If you have any software needs - I might be able to suggest a solution.
The information provided is intended to be general in nature. It is suggested that readers seek the advice of a CGA or other qualified professional for advice specific to their particular situation.
Open source software has a huge umbrella embracing everything from operating systems (Linux, Ubuntu), to database software to web browsers and email/calendar clients (Firefox, Thunderbird), to office productivity programs, website and ecommerce software. In fact, you name it there is probably an open source application for it.
Open source intrigues me. It is the result of a massive organized effort by individuals around the world who write code because of a combination of idealistic beliefs and because they find it fun. Some open source applications are the de facto standard for the purpose they fulfill.
I currently use a number of applications that I think are useful options for smaller businesses and plan to cover these off in upcoming blogs. If you use any you think are really great, let me know - I might just write about it. If you have any software needs - I might be able to suggest a solution.
The information provided is intended to be general in nature. It is suggested that readers seek the advice of a CGA or other qualified professional for advice specific to their particular situation.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Adobe Reader X - it's worth the upgrade
The kid's computer recently returned from a warranty service complete with brand new hard drive and bakery fresh operating system installation. The process of restoring it to its former state of usefulness occasioned a new download of Adobe and therefore the acquaintanceship with the latest version of the Acrobat Reader - Adobe X.
I must confess, I am a sucker for a slick new look and this version of Adobe certainly has that. There is a notional learning curve required to figure out where all the old stuff was now stashed - but not difficult to accomplish or set up.
The most significant new feature is that you can now highlight and create sticky notes in PDF files directly in Adobe Reader (rather than needing a PDF editing software) and without having to change into an editing mode. This will make it darn handy to put some quick and dirty annotations on something and pass it around. Comments can be printed if you like, but only by partially obscuring the document itself. Honestly I like the PDF editor's typewriter better because annotations can be added to the face of the document and printed if required, but I appreciate the increased functionality in the Adobe Reader and suspect that folks who have never ventured beyond its viewing capabilities will be inspired to play with the new toys Adobe X offers. They may even see the opportunity to not print something.
The information provided is intended to be general in nature. It is suggested that readers seek the advice of a CGA or other qualified professional for advice specific to their particular situation.
I must confess, I am a sucker for a slick new look and this version of Adobe certainly has that. There is a notional learning curve required to figure out where all the old stuff was now stashed - but not difficult to accomplish or set up.
The most significant new feature is that you can now highlight and create sticky notes in PDF files directly in Adobe Reader (rather than needing a PDF editing software) and without having to change into an editing mode. This will make it darn handy to put some quick and dirty annotations on something and pass it around. Comments can be printed if you like, but only by partially obscuring the document itself. Honestly I like the PDF editor's typewriter better because annotations can be added to the face of the document and printed if required, but I appreciate the increased functionality in the Adobe Reader and suspect that folks who have never ventured beyond its viewing capabilities will be inspired to play with the new toys Adobe X offers. They may even see the opportunity to not print something.
The information provided is intended to be general in nature. It is suggested that readers seek the advice of a CGA or other qualified professional for advice specific to their particular situation.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
G&T for breakfast indeed.......
You'd think I could come up with my own stuff. I'm a creative, literate, educated, and to those who know me personally, enviably hip (IMO) beancounter.
Go ahead, imbibe of the intoxicating lexiconical of my old buddiola, bizmarketer http://bizmarketer.wordpress.com/2010/08/13/gin-tonic-for-breakfast-on-monday/ in which my favourite cocktail becomes a metaphor for the workweek and work itself. With her customary poesie bizmarketer has captured that which I did not know I was thinking. The gin she did not prescribe, Bizmarketer is nothing if not tactful - in my vision that would be 1. Bombay Sapphire, the cleanest, crispest gin on the planet (wafted, not boiled, please consult the label) or 2. Tanquery - I recall an there was EMG reader employed there and this product was a longtime favourite of mine or possibly 3. Gordons or 4. Beefeater or 5. Gin, it was gin damn it.
What is my small business point? Set priorities that will aid your business in achieving it's most important objectives (be profitable without selling your soul, provide employment for your offspring even if they don't know they want it, be enjoyable.....you tell me, if it involves little kids and ponies, I'll prolly try real hard to publish it.) In the meantime, if you're interested in amusing marketing advice I think you can apply to your small business with a little imagination, a Rolling Stones CD and, last ditch, my advice on how to.... (just ping me an email, I love this stuff) have a go at bizmarketer's blog. She's a really successful gal who works for a rully big company.....
If you need the services of a good accountant, call me.....www.oldakerconsulting.ca
The information provided is intended to be general in nature. It is suggested that readers seek the advice of a CGA or other qualified professional for advice specific to their particular situation.
Go ahead, imbibe of the intoxicating lexiconical of my old buddiola, bizmarketer http://bizmarketer.wordpress.com/2010/08/13/gin-tonic-for-breakfast-on-monday/ in which my favourite cocktail becomes a metaphor for the workweek and work itself. With her customary poesie bizmarketer has captured that which I did not know I was thinking. The gin she did not prescribe, Bizmarketer is nothing if not tactful - in my vision that would be 1. Bombay Sapphire, the cleanest, crispest gin on the planet (wafted, not boiled, please consult the label) or 2. Tanquery - I recall an there was EMG reader employed there and this product was a longtime favourite of mine or possibly 3. Gordons or 4. Beefeater or 5. Gin, it was gin damn it.
What is my small business point? Set priorities that will aid your business in achieving it's most important objectives (be profitable without selling your soul, provide employment for your offspring even if they don't know they want it, be enjoyable.....you tell me, if it involves little kids and ponies, I'll prolly try real hard to publish it.) In the meantime, if you're interested in amusing marketing advice I think you can apply to your small business with a little imagination, a Rolling Stones CD and, last ditch, my advice on how to.... (just ping me an email, I love this stuff) have a go at bizmarketer's blog. She's a really successful gal who works for a rully big company.....
If you need the services of a good accountant, call me.....www.oldakerconsulting.ca
The information provided is intended to be general in nature. It is suggested that readers seek the advice of a CGA or other qualified professional for advice specific to their particular situation.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Bedamned if they aren't throwing in the Microsoft for free now!
I had occasion to look at new computers recently and discovered that in addition to making Office applications available online, Microsoft is putting a free, stripped-down, ad-supported version of Excel and Word 2010 on new computers. I was amazed because I have wondered for quite some time now if Microsoft would feel enough pressure from open source productivity suites such as Open Office and its many variations (Star Office, Google Docs etc.) to respond. The open source offerings are full-fledged, whereas the Microsoft freebies, do not have full functionality. However, they are more than adequate for many personal users, including in many businesses applications such as Word and Excel are commonly used for relatively simple tasks such as simple spreadsheets and uncomplicated business correspondence. This is not to say that there is no value in the boughten versions. I, for one, could not survive without pivot table functionality and the last time I checked, Excel was the only program powerful enough to do what I wanted to do. Tell all your friends, there is a lot of value to be captured here, gratis.
The information provided is intended to be general in nature. It is suggested that readers seek the advice of a CGA or other qualified professional for advice specific to their particular situation.
The information provided is intended to be general in nature. It is suggested that readers seek the advice of a CGA or other qualified professional for advice specific to their particular situation.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
More on Hay from EMG
A follow up to breaking out the hay on the bill for board for horses.
I was asked if it would raise any red flags if all the horses in the barn were being charged the same amount each month for hay. The answer is yes, most probably. The transaction has to be credible. I can think of limited circumstances in which a horse would eat 1650 lbs of hay in a month - please feel free to comment and correct me if you disagree. Examples would include draft horses, horses on limited turnout, also perhaps broodmares, race horses etc. In many cases, it would not be possible to bill the hay monthly, it would be necessary to invoice the hay every two or even three months in order to meet the quantity threshold. I would suggest that barn owners who wish to adopt this approach be prepared to support the rationale behind the billing should CRA come to call. In a barn where the horses are all of a uniform size and type, it would make sense if they were paying the same amount at the same frequency. But if your clients board ponies to thoroughbreds to draft horses with you, it's not going to look right (and it isn't going to be right) and I would expect you to have problems.
This poster's other question was whether or not CRA could say that the barn owner was not really selling the hay, but trying to dodge the HST. Well, diamonds are forever, but not tax legislation. However, the way the memorandum reads currently ties the GST-about-to-be HST re: hay to the quantity sold. I would argue that one: the barn owner is already selling the hay, and two: is selling the hay in zero-rated quantities over time.
Here is the link to the relevant memorandum: GST Memoranda 4.4 - Agriculture and Fishing. See paragraphs 9 and 14.1.
The information provided is intended to be general in nature. It is suggested that readers seek the advice of a CGA or other qualified professional for advice specific to their particular situation.
I was asked if it would raise any red flags if all the horses in the barn were being charged the same amount each month for hay. The answer is yes, most probably. The transaction has to be credible. I can think of limited circumstances in which a horse would eat 1650 lbs of hay in a month - please feel free to comment and correct me if you disagree. Examples would include draft horses, horses on limited turnout, also perhaps broodmares, race horses etc. In many cases, it would not be possible to bill the hay monthly, it would be necessary to invoice the hay every two or even three months in order to meet the quantity threshold. I would suggest that barn owners who wish to adopt this approach be prepared to support the rationale behind the billing should CRA come to call. In a barn where the horses are all of a uniform size and type, it would make sense if they were paying the same amount at the same frequency. But if your clients board ponies to thoroughbreds to draft horses with you, it's not going to look right (and it isn't going to be right) and I would expect you to have problems.
This poster's other question was whether or not CRA could say that the barn owner was not really selling the hay, but trying to dodge the HST. Well, diamonds are forever, but not tax legislation. However, the way the memorandum reads currently ties the GST-about-to-be HST re: hay to the quantity sold. I would argue that one: the barn owner is already selling the hay, and two: is selling the hay in zero-rated quantities over time.
Here is the link to the relevant memorandum: GST Memoranda 4.4 - Agriculture and Fishing. See paragraphs 9 and 14.1.
I would be very interested in feedback on how folks are handling the HST in the horse business. Are you tacking it on, will you roll it into a tax included price? Are customers complaining? Will it interfere with a price increase you wanted to put through? Any other thoughts? Please feel free to comment or email me.
The information provided is intended to be general in nature. It is suggested that readers seek the advice of a CGA or other qualified professional for advice specific to their particular situation.
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