Winter, Wyman News & Views: PDAs: To Buy or Not To Buy

Technology has become so entrenched in our culture that most of us can’t remember work in the “dark ages.” Not too long ago, our computers were anchored to our desks, a receptionist took our messages, and we conducted research using reference books and encyclopedias.  Laptops, cell phones, the internet and email have drastically changed the way we work.  We have immediate access to both information and to our colleagues.  PDAs, or Personal Digital Assistants, are the next step in becoming even more connected to our jobs.  By utilizing PDAs, we can make phone calls, send text messages, check our schedules and send emails from virtually anywhere.

While you can use PDAs on the job, most organizations don’t provide them for their employees—mostly because they, and their service plans, are expensive.  Depending on the brand and your phone service provider, they can run upwards of a few hundred dollars per month.  But individuals do have the option of purchasing PDAs for work use.  Is it worth investing your own hard-earned money to access this technology?  Here are some of the ways PDAs can enhance and improve your workday:

Achieve a better work/life balance.

PDAs can help you stay more connected to your work, so you can actually leave your desk more often.  You have the freedom to vacate the office while still being accessible.  You can feel comfortable catching an afternoon baseball game with a client, because you can check in with the office between innings.   If you take off early on a Friday afternoon, you can alleviate the anxiety that you may be missing a pressing work issue (and you won’t be blind-sided by it on Monday morning). 

Meet and exceed client and managers’ expectations.

Technology has made communication instantaneous—and made all of us somewhat impatient.  We expect an immediate response to emails and text messages.  PDAs allow you to respond to queries from clients and managers at any time of day without keeping them waiting.  You can also schedule more out-of-office face time with clients because you can take your work with you.

Increase productivity.

At times, work takes people away from the office.  Meetings, business travel, training and seminars are an important part of the job, but you feel like you have to catch up when you get back to your desk.  PDAs can help you stay in the loop and manage work while you’re away.  They can also help you use your downtime more efficiently.  For example, you can check your email on the train during your commute.

Create a more efficient team.

PDAs allow you to sync your schedule with your team members so you can work together more effectively.  The team can stay connected during the workday, regardless of everyone’s locations. 

Organize your personal life.

You can also manage and maximize your personal time using your PDA by folding your after-hours commitments into your schedule.  You won’t have to worry about double-booking an appointment or arranging a doctor’s visit during your child’s birthday party. 

PDAs are an excellent way to stay connected at work (even when you’re not at work) and increase your productivity.  They can even help you achieve a better work/life balance.  Purchasing a PDA is not only an advancement in technology, it is also an investment in your career.