Customer service opens up many new doors for businesses to stand out. Some companies may not be known for their exceptional products, but they are known for their exceptional service, such as Amazon. Businesses should adopt this customer service model for their own use.

Now a days, it helps for businesses to provide a customer-friendly website experience. Recruit a group of outsiders to test your site regularly to make sure it is functioning properly. Also, remember to keep your site up-to-date since customers expect the latest technological advances. Another possibility is a partnership. By joining forces with a complimentary company, you could not only save costs, but could also give your business additional exposure that you may not have gotten on your own.

Additionally, businesses should utilize social networks if they aren't already. Social media allows businesses to build their brands and reputations in the places their customers already occupy. It is important to update these social networks regularly since it will show consumers your level of commitment. Some people may frown upon this strategy, but it's another positive opportunity.

Happy Thanksgiving

The staff at ODI Consulting wishes you a Thanksgiving that is filled with gratitude and love.

Be thankful that you don't already have everything you desire. If you did, what would there be to look forward to? Be thankful when you don't know something, for it gives you the opportunity to learn.

Be thankful for the difficult times. During those times you grow. Be thankful for your limitations, because they give you opportunities for improvement. Be thankful for each new challenge, because it will build your strength and character.

Be thankful for your mistakes. They will teach you valuable lessons. Be thankful when you're tired and weary, because it means you've made a difference.

It's easy to be thankful for the good things. A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are also thankful for the setbacks. Gratitude can turn a negative into a positive. Find a way to be thankful for your troubles, and they can become your blessings. ~ Author Unknown

Written by ODI, published by Sunbelt Software...

VIPRE Is Like My Rottweiler

Hi Larry, I have to tell you I laughed when I read the latest SSN newsletter. What you said contradicts something I tell people all the time but you are 100% correct. Often times I have said that I will leave my home and leave my windows open and doors unlocked feeling secure in knowing that when I return everything will still be there. But I not dare go one second without my computers and network being protected.

I guess I only say that because I have a 160+ pound Rottweiler so I'm not too worried. I can say that VIPRE is like my Rottie - a trustworthy defender living inside of my computer ready to attack any would-be infiltrators. It's nice knowing I have protection on my computer that I can instill the same trust in as my dog. I have not a worry and VIPRE has never let me down and proven itself time and time again. Of course, you can never let your guard down. You never know when some would-be hacker is going to come around with a T-bone steak in their back pocket. T. G.

Get Your PC Ready for "Cyber Monday"

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and in the United States that means the kick-off of the holiday shopping season!!!

While the Friday after Thanksgiving continues to be an extremely popular shopping day, with throngs of thrifty-minded shoppers storming the malls for sales, it's the following Monday - known as "Cyber Monday" - that signals the start of the online shopping season.

Last year, nearly 85 million online shoppers hit virtual checkout lines on Cyber Monday, and experts expect even higher numbers this year*. In 2009, Cyber Monday falls on November 30.
Many sites provide information on special online savings, check out http://www.cybermonday.com/.

This is the time of year that hackers and identity theives love. So many people shopping online and so many scams to be had. Be careful! Make sure you have firewall protection enabled and you antivirus and antispyware software is up to date and fully functional. If you do come across any deal that sounds way to good to be true it probably is. Buyer Beware!

ODI would like to wish everyone safe and enjoyable shopping season!

Windows 7

Windows 7 is here! The next-generation of Microsoft's Windows operating system was released in late October and is making a huge impact. Windows 7 is a more secure and faster operating system than Windows XP and Vista and proves to be Microsoft's new flagship product. By now you have heard all about it you may be wondering if it is any good and is it going to be another Vista? At ODI we have been testing and evaluating Windows 7 for quite some time and we can say without a shadow of a doubt Windows 7 is a great operating system. For those who have been plagued by Vista's shortcomings we highly recommend upgrading to Windows 7. Are you in the market for a new PC but you really would rather stick with Windows XP? We are here to tell you that sticking with Windows XP will only be limiting the power of your computer and your productivity. As Microsoft states, "Windows 7 is the PC simplified." There have been so many improvements and new features that come from years of end-user feedback and this time Microsoft finally got it right. If you are are worried about switching - don't be. Windows 7 makes everything much more simpler. More important than that is the speed and stability and new and improved security features coupled with new technologies to boost performance. It really make Windows 7 a force to be reckoned with.

If you have any questions or need any help with Windows 7, ODI Consulting is here to help you! If you are tired and frustrated with the problems of your current PC and are thinking of making the switch to a Mac, we highly recommend you give Windows 7 a try. We think you will be glad you did.