About Me

Aha…you get bonus points for checking this page. Thanks, I like that. You’re in the 0.10% club. According to Google Analytics, that’s the percentage of people visiting and reading this page. Don’t worry; I don’t know who you are, and there’s no membership fee.

I figure two types of people look at this page. The first group wants to know who I am. I’m Anne. Yes, it’s just me. I’m a solo act. I like to say I’m a lifelong learner intrigued by technology, but that usually puts me in the bucket labeled “propeller head” or “nerd.” I’m OK with that.

The second group wants to know if I allow guest posts or sponsored posts. No, I don’t. However, I will give you props for finding out more about me so you can craft a pitch. That puts you ahead of your competitors, but I still don’t do guest or sponsored posts. You can take a look at our publishing principles.

My Background

I’m a professional that has been around PCs since the early ’80s. I’ve worked for companies including Marriott International, General Electric, Charles Schwab, and a host of smaller companies—all where I made mistakes and learned much more.

To give context, I’ve been using software for so long Microsoft Excel and Word weren’t even around. My first word processor was called Volkswriter, and I loved it. It was a single 5 1/2″ floppy disk. And I used Lotus 1-2-3 long before IBM bought it and Microsoft Excel came around.

This site is a passion and not my primary job. I’ve run technical support organizations, online bulletin board systems (BBS), and training programs. I also help run several websites.

I started with PCs when few people knew which operating system would prevail. This was before Microsoft came out with Windows and Excel. And yes, I’ve seen the rise and fall of both Microsoft and Apple. And let’s not forget the inroads Google and Linux have made.

In the last 40+ years, I have seen the continuous frustration of users with personal technology. Seldom can I go to my favorite cafe without someone asking a question or sharing a problem. Sometimes even knowing the right question to ask can be a challenge. Many of those questions have turned into articles. The common denominator is all these people are frustrated and want their stuff to work. Me too.

My Intent

This site teaches you more about the tools you use or gets you past some stumbling blocks. I like to think people have a “portfolio” of tools that might include their Windows PC, smartphone, tablet, etc. I know most people don’t have the time or desire to read the manuals. Many of you are professionals, students, or solopreneurs without the benefit of corporate support staff. You’re busy doing your job and may be unable to try new programs or services.

My goal is to teach you about these tools through tutorials with easy instructions and language. I also provide additional content on some articles with video tutorials and practice files. The content covers many areas, from explaining tech terms to showing you a program feature. I might even throw in a fun website now and then to remind you that all work and no play are unproductive.

And while I may mention systems, processes, and workflows, I don’t consider myself a “productivity expert.” I think people get hung up on that phrase. Too often, people strive to be productive but fail to consider if that’s the best use of their time.

I also know from experience that you can’t force people into a system. As a young manager, I remember trying to get my employees to use a productivity system; I found it helpful. I had the best intentions but failed to realize that people learn differently. It reminds me of how people tried to teach me some tasks using my right hand. I’m a leftie. When my quality rate and production dropped, they agreed to let me use my left hand. Sometimes, multiple methods work, and what’s best for me may not work for you. And if you find a better way, I’m all ears.

Affiliations and Revenue

I do receive revenue from advertisements. And because many people now use ad blockers, I have started to use affiliate links for Amazon, TextExpander, SnagIt, and other sites to help offset the cost of this site. These are on products I have used and, in some cases, written reviews. In these cases, I disclose that there is an affiliation.

Article Ideas

I am serious when I say I get most of my article ideas from friends and co-workers. I’m always looking for topic ideas. Please let me know if you have a question on how to do something. I can’t guarantee I’ll write an article on the topic, but I’d love to know what’s on your mind and maybe solve your problem.

Social Media Interests

This may surprise some of you, but I don’t have a social media presence, so there is no sense in trying to follow me. My Facebook presence is limited to private groups that offer support for purchased services.

I used Twitter a lot in the early days, but now it’s just for the occasional support question or time-sensitive query. I also realized social media wasn’t the best use of my time. I’m not ruling it out, but social media isn’t my priority especially since we’re heading into election season.

As always, thanks for your time and reading.