How I Review

I use my palm...alot.  I use it out in the field in some uncomfortable conditions and I press my little PDA to the limits.  That's why I decided it would be a good idea to review the products I have used, tried, liked and disliked.  All of the reviews that you read will have been the result of use both in my office and out in the field.  On my knee, in the early morning hours before daylight, one handed and any other way I can imagine, you will know whether the product is workable or not.  Now, I'm not a techno-geek, programmer or gear head, I'm just a regular working guy who's managed to leave the laptop at home and use a Palm instead (although I will admit that I do carry a bit of extra paraphernalia around with it).  

Let me first give you a little background.  I'm a Private Investigator in Southern California.  I work in the field every day.  While doing that, I need to manage my office, stay in touch with clients, invoice and write reports (does any of this sound familiar?).  I use my Palm for all of this.

My reviews will be based on my experiences with the products under these 'real world' conditions.  Now, to be fair, these conditions may not apply to everyone, so keep this in mind when you read the review.

I thought it might be nice to give you an idea what I'm looking for when I review, so here's a little summary.

50%-The most important thing I look for is whether or not the product is well made, does what it says and is easy to use.  Whether it is useful or not to me is not as important as whether it is a superbly built product or a piece of junk.  We all have to decide the usefulness of a product on our own.  This includes the quality of the packaging, documentation and support.

25%-Secondly, I look for it's usability for my particular circumstances.  These can be work related or just where my interests are.  

25%-Finally, there is an overall impression or 'coolness' factor.  This is probably the most subjective criteria of all so I weight it rather lightly.

(These are general guidelines, don't hold me to them!)

It is my hope that my experiences with the Palm will help you be more productive in whatever you do.  I hope you enjoy.  Please tell me what you think.

The best way to get in touch is via email to [email protected]