Contributions from Joe Stoddard

Joe Stoddard is an industry consultant and the director of builder operations for Dynami Solutions; www.joestoddard.com.

  • Simple Remote Access Options

    Most remodeling companies don't need a full-blown virtual private network. Here are some remote-access options to get you online and enable you to get work done when you're not in the office.

     
  • Freeware Do's and Don'ts

    Software available for free can help business owners -- but mind the small print.

     
  • Industry-Specific Software vs. Generic Software

    Joe Stoddard details when it makes sense to invest in industry-specific software, and why.

     
  • SoftPlan 14 CAD Software

    Back when I was selling my own remodeling jobs, my computer-generated presentation packages would often allow me to lock out the competition. Sometimes, they’d never even get to present their bids.

     
  • Electronic Data Backup Solutions

    You wouldn’t leave a roof uncovered with a thunderstorm in the forecast, so why aren’t you backing up your computer data?

     
  • Mobile Must-haves

    Armed with a cell phone and a good laptop or Tablet PC, remodelers can slash overhead and respond to clients more quickly than ever before. But what's the best mobile computer for a remodeler? Here are a few things to look for:

     
  • High-tech softward for your cell phone

    One high-tech tool practically every lead carpenter, salesperson, and project manager is an expert at using is a cell phone. The following productivity software and hardware will put any modern Smartphone to better use as a true project management tool:

     
  • Global Positioning Systems (GPS) Save Time

    I recently did a complete Global Positioning System (GPS) unit roundup for our sister publication, TOOLS OF THE TRADE. I was amazed by how powerful and inexpensive these units have become — and how useful they would be for a remodeler or handyman trying to get from job to office to supply house and...

     
  • Use Online Photo Services to Thank Clients and Promote Your Business

    Remodelers are always looking for ways to say “thank you” to clients while at the same time promoting their own services. The current crop of online photo services offers a perfect solution.

     
  • Microsoft Office 2007 Delivers

    Why shell out $150 to $700 per seat for Microsoft Office 2007 when there are a bunch of free “productivity suites” already available? For starters, it's the best “office system” there is. I've been using Office 2007 for six months and feel I've barely scratched the surface of what's possible with...