Web Wise
New ZipForm® Information Center
by Kristi Mikalsen and Cindy
Rebholz
Whether you need to download the ZipForm® software or print a user's manual, the
ZipForm® Information Center is your source for getting
ZipForm® products or answers about using them. Located just one click away from the WRA's home page, www.wra.org (click the
ZipForm® logo), the Information Center provides members a delineated map of the
ZipForm® section of the Web site.
One of the products available is the Online
Version, a ZipForm® Web-based product. After registering for the program which includes installing an online viewer to your computer's hard drive, the program is accessed at anytime from the Internet. All forms are completed and saved online. Form and software updates and the annual renewal are automatic. You can also access frequently asked questions about the online version and the user's manual.
Another way to use ZipForm® is the Desktop Version
5.0, a ZipForm® product that does not require going online each time it is used. The entire program resides on the user's hard drive, including completed transactions. Depending on Internet access speed, downloading the software takes approximately 30-45 minutes.
All software and form updates are the user's responsibility. Annually, users must renew their program via the Internet. There are many other options available in the ZipForm Information Center for the desktop version that range from downloading additional copies or a clause manual to free online training. Everything you'll need to know is at your fingertips.
A third ZipForm® product is the Palm
OS®. ZipForm® for Palm OS® allows agents to use their handheld device to create, edit and delete multiple transactions which they may then sync to
ZipForm® 5.0. Over 90 fields of relevant transaction data may be collected under the Property, Listing and Sales tabs. This product is sold separately by
ZipForm®.
Finally, Other Information provides users valuable contact information.
Technical support numbers for all products are available here. You can also access a
listing of the available forms in the
ZipForm® product.
ZipForm® is one of the most popular products the WRA offers to members. Take advantage of this product and the complete resource center available to you 24/7 at www.wra.org.
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The World of Wireless
Technology changes so quickly and so often that it's a challenge to understand the latest trends. But sometimes products and services are so revolutionary that you can't afford to NOT understand. Wireless connectivity is becoming the new standard, and
REALTORS® and their businesses must be knowledgeable and equipped for the future.
by Rolf Anderson, CRS
When President Dwight D. Eisenhower authorized the interstate highway system in 1956, many of us may remember it as an unimaginable frontier for America. Although this first-class system now seems ordinary, it enriched the quality of life, enhanced mobility and reduced travel times for almost everyone. In 2003, we're in the heart of the "Technology Age" and have new frontiers to explore. From the personal computer to cell phones and the Internet, we are riding an invisible superhighway of innovation and have arrived at our next unimaginable frontier: wireless PC communication.
As REALTORS®, almost every aspect of our job requires the use of technology. Between communicating with clients through e-mail, maintaining contacts in a personal digital assistant (PDA) and searching online MLS listings, we depend on quick, reliable service from many providers and devices. Wireless connectivity gives you the freedom to link your computer, cell phone, PDA and printer without cords, electrical outlets or phone jacks.
Wireless compares to the Internet four years ago in its prevalence in the market. So if you're planning to purchase or upgrade your equipment, research the options available. As a CRS Designee and Senior Instructor for the Council teaching technology courses, I've found that my discussions with colleagues and students alike have helped broaden my understanding of technology to help me make educated, common-sense decisions about technology. In addition, a general knowledge of the following three wireless options (which are categorized by size of service area), can help
REALTORS® make informed decisions about the most effective combination of wireless service to fit individual lifestyles.
Personal Area Network (PAN)
Your personal area network is basically a ring of 30 feet around your devices. Within this area,
Bluetooth™ wireless technology can link a computer and printer, headset and cell phone, cell phone and the Internet, among others.
Bluetooth™ is a low cost, secure solution that is compatible with hardware sold today, as well as some older models. As a radio frequency, it has high-speed capability. It's like zooming around a six-lane beltway at 80 miles per hour - you're going fast but restricted to the urban area unless you exit onto a different road.
Previously, infrared communication was the standard for short-range communication, but within the line of sight only.
Bluetooth™, which is the only wireless PAN standard available, does not have such limitations and enables devices to communicate through walls and other obstacles as long as it falls within the distance restriction
(approximately 30 feet). Eventually, all types of Bluetooth™-enabled devices will be available such as keyboards, mice, home security systems, garage door openers and more.
Local Area Network (LAN)
This category of wireless is also known as Wi-Fi or 802.11. Now, take your PAN and expand it from 30 feet to include an entire building. Wi-Fi allows wireless access within 300 to 500 feet of a network antenna (access point) within a building, such as your office or home.
REALTORS® can have the mobility to connect to the Internet, intranet and network computers from any office, conference room or cubicle. The connection speed depends on the speed of the Internet connection and is slightly slower than a similar "wired" connection. Now you're driving on a state highway with the freedom to travel in a larger area.
Many public spaces offer a Wi-Fi Internet connection. Walk into almost any Starbucks, and you can order a venti latte, carrot cake ... and a high-speed Internet Wi-Fi connection. Fees range from $.10 per minute to $39.99 per month for unlimited nationwide access. There are thousands of public Wi-Fi "hot spots," or places to access a wireless network, across the country. From Borders bookstores, airports and many universities to McDonald's, Marriott and Boeing airplanes-the number is exploding. Although these "hot spots" charge nominal fees, I expect to be able to use this service for free in the near future as more commercial entities begin catering to the Internet-connected public. You'll soon be able to drive to a convenience store, gas up your car and check your e-mail through their free Wi-Fi "hot spot" service.
Wide Area Network (WAN)
A WAN is like driving on the interstate at 55 miles per hour. You may be traveling a little slower than a PAN or LAN connection, but the highway system can take you anywhere. After purchasing a WAN wireless PC card for your laptop or PDA, you pay a monthly service charge to connect to the Internet, like a cell phone plan. For example, I purchased a WAN card at Sprint
PCS® and now have wireless access to the Internet anywhere Sprint
PCS® is available. Check with your cellular provider for more information. For
REALTORS®, the ability to check MLS data while parked in front of a house your buyer just discovered is priceless.
The mobility benefits of a WAN connection far outweigh its slower speed, which is equal to or twice that of a landline connection. Additionally, when using WAN service, I typically use the connection for less time than a PAN or LAN. I save my hard-core Internet work for when I'm in the office or at home.
What Now?
In regards to the right combination of PAN, LAN and/or WAN connectivity for you, I recommend exploring the value of all three. Talk with colleagues, read recent articles and enroll in a technology course to uncover the world of wireless. Between showing houses, teaching and traveling, the three categories give me the flexibility I need to ensure I'm giving the best in client service, 100 percent to colleagues and not missing a beat at home.
Rolf Anderson, CRS, is a third-generation REALTOR® and 21-year veteran of the profession. He owns and operates an 85-year-old family agency in Forest City, Iowa. He is a CRS Senior Instructor for the Council of Residential Specialists and is a national speaker, consultant, trainer and author on technology and real estate. He teaches the two-day CRS 206 Course, "Technologies to Advance Your Business," and the one-day course, "Marketing with
Microsoft® Office," to those pursuing the Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) Designation.
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