Here is a list of the things I really like right now that make running my business easier and more productive, especially as a sole-proprietor who wears all the hats.

FileZilla: FileZilla is an open source FTP program. The nice part, it’s free and it works. It will keep track of multiple FTP sites, and does a great job of transferring lots of files. I use it to upload slide shows to my web site for clients to access.

LogMeIn: LogMeIn allows me to easily access my home or work computer from any location. It takes a few screens to actually gain access to the remote computer, but once connected screen redraws are fast and can be customized to provide more detail if necessary. I tried doing remote access through other means but with dynamic IP addresses and modem/router configurations I was never able to make it work reliably. With LogMeIn I have not had a problem. I use the free service which allows me access to all my files as if I was sitting at the machine. You can upgrade to a paid Pro service to move files directly between your local and remote computers. I use the service listed next when I have to copy files between local and remote machines.

DigitalBucket.net: I found DigitalBucket.net when I was searching for a file delivery system that my clients and I could easily use. DigitalBucket offers a lot more functionality that I currently take advantage of, and they offer ample storage options for reasonable prices. I like them because they have a very intuitive interface for uploading and sharing files. My clients don’t have to log in unless they want to access the advanced features. I just send them a link to their files and they are ready to go.

Hosted Microsoft Exchange: My websites are hosted by MyHosting.com. They started offering a hosted exchange service that would provide my Blackberry with two-way push email, contacts, tasks and notes. I had been struggling trying to keep my Blackberry synced up to my computer and often had calendar items out of date. Now everything I enter on the Blackberry is automatically synced to the hosted Exchange server and everything I enter in Outlook on my computer is synced to my Blackberry. I wish I had done this two years ago.

Miscellaneous