Four Tech Tools to Help You Be Better Organized in the New Year

By Abbi Whitaker, president

New tech tools are making the recurring New Year’s resolution to get organized a lot more attainable in 2012 than in years past. From free scheduling applications to full-blown cloud computing services that organize schedules, data and meetings, new tech products make organization as easy as a couple clicks of the mouse for entrepreneurs, small businesses and executive looking to go through 2012 without missing meetings, forgetting appointments or blowing deadlines. Here are four technological answers to disorganization that might be the key to keeping your 2012 New Year’s resolution:

• Your Office Anywhere

Your Office Anywhere is comprehensive cloud computing service that mixes a mobile office and online meeting capabilities with data storage and scheduling capabilities.

Versatile enough to absorb most small business’s technology needs, Your Office Anywhere is a comprehensive technology solution for a small business that wants meetings, scheduling, data storage and more, all in one centrally located and mobile location. The easy-to-use service is priced at $10 a month, and is perfect for small business owners who do not want to deal with the headache of complex technology, but still want the data storage, mobility and collaboration of cloud computing. There is nothing to download, and your entire workspace can be pulled up from any digital device with a simple online login. The service also allows you to invite clients into the cloud, and work on projects collaboratively, without the clients having to sign up to the service. The addition of video conferencing and chat allows communication in the cloud. And, at 100 gigabytes, the service’s storage is large enough for even data-intensive small businesses.

• SugarSync

SugarSync solves organization by synching and centralizing all of your data across numerous devices. With ironclad document backup, automatic synching and easy file sharing, you will no longer by stuck without a file you need when you are away from your office. The service’s flexibility and laundry list of services made it Gizmodo’s top cloud computing pick for 2011, beating out cloud heavyweights like Google and Dropbox. You can have up to 30 gigabytes of storage for as little as $4.99 per month, or choose 100 gigabytes for $14.99 per month. It is slightly more technologically complex than Your Office Anywhere, but once you are familiar with the platform, SugarSync allows you to choose which files you want to sync or stream music from your desktop to mobile devices. If you are willing to spend even more money, SugarSync for Business is a beefed up version of the cloud that runs $29.99 per month but has live tech support and an administrative dashboard — the ultimate organizational command center for 2012.

• Wunderlist

Wunderlist has turned a lot of heads for its elegant simplicity. Because, let’s face it, when you are choosing an application to simplify your scheduling and organize your life, the last thing you want is a complex and confusing piece of technology. Wunderlist’s simple lists and reminders keep you on schedule, and the lists can be created directly from your email inbox. The application can be used on any computer or mobile device. And you can invite people to events and collaborate with co-workers or clients using the application. Finally, it’s free.

• Evernote

Evernote is a Wunderlist for notes and ideas. The easily searchable site allows users to jot down ideas, save photos and store notes in a central location that can be accessed by phone, computer or mobile device. The application is great for creative types, designers and students. You can also plan a trip, save your favorite webpages and collaborate with colleagues using the site.