When does an online convenience have the potential to push the technology envelope?

Remember years ago when the fax machine first came out? It shortened the productivity cycle by making it possible for documents that heretofore had to be mailed…to be transferred in moments over the telephone line.

Well, there’s another such technology that emerged in recent years, and it is sweeping productivity cycles. It’s the ability to get documents signed immediately online. And the leader in that movement is “EchoSign”, which is making such waves that Adobe purchased them in 2011.

What is really fueling the acceptance of this technology is the recent release as a mobile app, which springboarded Echosign to the #1 business app earlier this month in ios (Apple) and android applications.

What’s the Fuss All About?

On first glance it looks like what you’re getting is the ability to send a document in an email for someone to sign digitally, send it back, and you’re done…and a legally binding document, to boot.

But EchoSign itself gives a clue to its hidden broader implications as it boasts that the service is all about getting Contracts Signed, Tracked, and Filed. Now, that’s 3 powerful benefits.

What if you need to send a document to more than one person, and you don’t want to waste valuable time tracking where each person stands in the process. And “Filing”…they’re talking about the capability to give each person a signed copy and to have the completed signature originals stored for you on their secure website.

An Example…Evergreen Launch of your Product

Let’s say you are getting ready to release a new $497 product you created around social media. And you decide to assemble your outsource Team to get it out the door. Perhaps, you’ll be looking at a web designer, a graphics person, a copywriter, Infusionsoft/database manager, a Marketer/Affiliate Manager, and of course, yourself.

You create a tight, but well-integrated timeline for who is to do what…by when…and now you’re ready to circulate the document to get everyone to sign off on it. What can this technology do for you (using Echosign as the example)?

Some of the Potential Uses

Again, if you move beyond the limitation of viewing this as simply a way to get documents signed and returned, some great possibilities emerge. Let’s look at a few.

* Team Management: Let’s say you have a number of people working on different pieces of a project. You can send a routing form around to be initialed when each completes his/her task. This way you always know your project status.

* Increase your Sales ‘Close Rate’: You may be a consultant proposing terms to a prospect. You send over the document during your call for quesrtions and simply instruct them to send it back e-signed. Or…your Sales Team sends a proposal after talking to a prospect and it gets opened but not signed. Here’s your opportunity to discover and handle an “Objection”.

* Integration with Systems Management: You have the capability to integrate it with Salesforce and other management programs via API’s to track movement, attach to a record or a marketing sequence, and store the document. It even integrates with documents you might already upload to Google Docs.

* Getting paid faster as a Vendor: Ever had a time when you’ve submitted an invoice and had to wait to get paid? Imagine if you were now in control, sending over an Agreement with your Terms, a required advance, and the Client’s signature.

* Gaining Affiliate compliance: As a result of the CAN-SPAM Act and other regulations, you are responsible, to a large degree, for the actions of your Affiliates. How about creating an automated process with a document detailing what you will or won’t allow the Affiliate to do in terms of promoting your product (especially with regards to Google’s Adwords or Clickbank) and require an e-signature to confirm. Oh yes, and while you’re at it, include a W9 tax form for them to sign for your records.

Interested in learning more about Echosign? Just check out their website at http://www.echosign.com/.

The bottom line in all of this is that using this tool creatively results in greater productivity because it collapses time and enhances the end-results.

Can Electronic Signatures Change the Way We Get Things Done? is a post from: Business Building Shortcuts

Sometimes, it makes sense to have a way to make repetitive business decisions without having to reinvent the wheel each time a situation re-appears. Revenue-sharing between yourself and one or more others is such a time.

In this 8 minute video, I show you a tool (I helped create many years ago) that will show you how to determine an equitable Revenue split in just about any situation.

Please leave a comment oif you found it useful.

20-20 Revenue Sharing System is a post from: Business Building Shortcuts

Building a successful business involves combining a number of proven Strategies. In this 10 minute video, I show you how to leverage the skillset and interests you’ve been developing over your life, prior to starting your Internet business.

Learn the value of hooking up with a ‘Mentor’ to coach you to your next level of success, as well as allow your latent talents to shine.

Again…if you found this valuable, please comment below.

The ‘Mentor Method’ is a post from: Business Building Shortcuts

Years ago, I decided to make my laptop my primary computer, so I wouldn’t have to transfer files when I traveled. I picked up an external monitor to compensate, but it wasn’t until I put ‘dual monitors’ into place that I truly realized what I was missing.

I gained the ability to work from one document on the left while I created content on the right, have multiple files open, etc.

Dual Monitors when you Travel?

And then, I found a way to do the same thing while on the road. Let me show you in this short, 4.5 minute video.

Curious about the APP?

Now that you’ve seen the video, I know you’re curious about the ‘app’ that lets you use your Ipad as an external monitor. It’s called “Air Display” and you can download it for about $10.

Don’t have an Ipad? There’s tablets for you, too. Just go search online for ‘external tablet monitor for a laptop’.

———————————————–
Please leave us a comment if you found this useful.

Dual Monitors at your Office and on the Road is a post from: Business Building Shortcuts

Here is a short 3 minute video that will show you a new tool I found that can save you hours every week.

The tool is called ‘Speakeasy’ and I show you …

• Why you need it
• How to get it
• How to use it to increase the return on your time.

If you like it, please leave a comment.

The $3 Time Solution | Speakeasy is a post from: Business Building Shortcuts

Thanks for joining me for Part 2 of this video series on how to leverage the equipment, software and mindset to operate as an efficient mobile office while you travel.

In Part One; I gave you an overview of the tools and technology needed to run your mobile office.

Today, I’m going to get deeper into logistics, planning and strategies to reduce road stress before you travel.

Go ahead and check it out now and be sure to share any comments or questions you may have.

Happy traveling!

How to be “Mobile” On the Road-Part 2 is a post from: Business Building Shortcuts

I know it’s a bit of an oxymoron. But, I promise you this is not a “Why did the chicken cross the road?” metaphor.

The fact is, many people are not properly equipped to be productive while on the road. To be truly mobile while traveling, it takes more than a cell phone, laptop and internet card to keep you effectively connected and operational.

Are you equipped to leverage all of the mobile applications and tools available on the web while you travel? Let’s say you meet someone who could really benefit from your product or service. Are you prepared to give an impromptu presentation? Or, maybe you are working on last minute research for a presentation in the morning and your hotel’s Wi-Fi goes down.
What do you do?

What you don’t have to do is panic, because in this short video…and the one to follow, I am going to reveal some powerful tips and tools for staying connected and productive while you travel:

You’ll discover:

• The 5 types of equipment you need to operate as a virtual office while you travel
• 5 of my most recommended types of “Cloud” software you can use to streamline operations and connect with your team
• Powerful tips on how to reduce road stress with proper planning before you travel
• And a few more golden nuggets I know you’ll find useful.

Go ahead and check it out now and be sure to share any comments or questions you may have.

How to be “Mobile” On the Road-Part 1 is a post from: Business Building Shortcuts

I love metaphors. And, just coming out of “Bowl” season, I am inspired by the football teams which demonstrate versatility in the way they run their offense. Truly, the better teams have a quarterback who can execute a great running game, as well as passing.

Similarly, as the quarterback of your Internet business…and the creator of content, it makes sense to have total versatility in presenting your video content.

Take a look at this short video in which I share some tips that I’ve learned from ‘live video’ master, Rick Davis, in setting up the lighting, generating spontaneous content…and oh yeah…seeing screencast videos from the other side of the camera.

And, if you’re seeing this video before January 13th, go ahead and click here to join us on Rick’s January 12th live  webinar on ‘Creating Impactful Live Action Videos’.

https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/418800697

Live Action vs Screencast Video is a post from: Business Building Shortcuts

As you go about the daily tasks of working your business, there is a very easy system which you can set up that will keep your business on track. I call it setting up your “Business Rules”.

One of the best ways to maintain your high energy level and rate of production is to not have to think about how you would approach each new decision that presents itself. That’s where “Business Rules” come in.

Check out this new video to better understand their significance and how to set them up for yourself. (Note: Please click on the little icon in the lower right below the video to make it full size.)

Why You Need ‘Business Rules’ is a post from: Business Building Shortcuts

Having no kids of our own, it’s a wonderful treat for Deb and I when we’re able to provide a child with a magical experience.

I think you’ll love this 1 minute video about a Holiday gift Deb and I set up for the children of our visiting friends from Australia. It’s our Christmas gift to you, as well.

Enjoy!

Mynders

The Best Time of My Life is a post from: Business Building Shortcuts