Internet Tools You Just Have to Have

There’s plenty of nonsense to be found on the internet, but some things have become quite indispensable in making my life easier. They might make yours easier too…

A few favourites are:-
1. Plaxo
- this service stores your address book AND Outlook data online. It serves as a pretty useful backup address book especially for those who have no PDA and can’t access their computer while travelling. Also replenishes your address book, schedules, memos and other data after data loss in case of a crash or laptop being stolen. Synchronizes regularly.

2. Google Search
- My all time favourite, it looks up stuff I need to find in a jiffy, even inane things like how to wire your plug or remove candle wax from the glass top table. Indispensable to find required info for research purposes. Also to vet news and urban legends that you receive in the mail.

3. Google Desktop
- Ah… my new best friend. When you have gazillions of information scattered in hundreds of files and emails in your computer, this tool saves time spent digging in your folders for that one document or email containing crucial information that you desperately need. Also has a sidebar that has RSS feeds and scratch pad for quick updates. It minimizes very neatly too.

4. Instant Messaging & Internet Telephone
- Y!M, IM, Skype – excellent tool for communications. Chatting – you know how it works la. Yahoo and Skype offers free voice calls between members (I’m sure you already know that). Skype also offers paid calls to normal phones at very reasonable prices. All you need is a phone/ mic set and minimum 512 kB connection. Indispensable for keeping in touch with friends, family and business associates overseas without burning your bank account.

5. Emails
- Something we take for granted these days, but think about it. Not too long ago, we rely on snail mail to send documents all over the place. Now we send photos, documents, audio files, videos, etc almost instantly. Not only is it convenient, it’s crucial for efficiency.

I don’t know about you, but I thank the people who invented these things from the bottom of my heart. :-)