In holidays past we were all about assembling toys and reading instruction manuals.  Now it is setting up your wireless and using your new smart phone!  We each have a different way of getting started on our new technology.  Some of us like to read on the internet, some of us like to play with the technology, others like our friends to talk us through the set up.  Let me offer a few hints with baby steps to get organized.

New Kindle or Nook

• For kindle owners, best way to start is by viewing the tutorials on Amazon. It has written instructions and a video to view. 
• BarnesandNoble.com has an online tutorial for the Nook too at  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/nook/gettingstarted/index.asp
• Some Barnes and Noble retail stores have workshops at the store. You can check it out at http://store-locator.barnesandnoble.com/event/3063863-4.

New mobile device like a smart phone

• Verizon offers a class for their customers with blackberries, droids or other new phones. It is well worth the time to attend! I did! After struggling for 2 weeks with a new phone, it was great to get specific instructions on common tasks and shortcuts. 
• Google instructions for your specific smart phone. There are an incredible number of online resources to suggest how to get started.
• Just do it! It may be painful for the first 2 weeks, but the transition is worth it.  Remember when you travel to a new country how quickly you learn the language? When you “just do it,” it is the same immersion process. 

New computer, laptop or other hardware

• Find a reliable, knowledgeable and trustworthy source to help with installation.  If you work with technology regularly, you know the shortcuts.  Consistently rely on the same source for set up for all your devices.
• Before you transition, think about backing up all your data. I use www.carbonite.com and it has been a great resource.

New ipod,  ipad, itouch or iphone

• Online resources will be a great help here.  Of course Apple offers a great resource here. http://support.apple.com/kb/HT4053. 
• The Apple Store offers one on one, workshops and other training.
• There is always the old fashioned way: by phone at 1-800-MYAPPLE. 

Calendar technology

• Choose a calendar that will work well with your smart phone or find an app that will add your existing technology. With my smart phone, I added nitrodesk to be able to view my Outlook calendar.  You can use Google calendar automatically with your gmail accounts on Verizon products.  If you have an iphone, you can also sync with the google calendar.  Every phone is different, so check your provider for  more information. 
• Set aside an hour to add as much current or upcoming information as possible.  Add dates from school, church, Boy Scouts, and any other events between now and June.
• Begin adding in dates for birthday and anniversaries as recurring events.
• Remember, each time a new date comes up, check your calendar, and enter the date.

Getting started with your new gadgets may take a few extra minutes but it will be well worth it! Remember, there are always a few glitches so be sure to persevere.  If you get stuck, talk with friends, google or call.  

What are your ways of organizing your new gadgets? 

Lifehacker’s link for shiny new gadgets  http://lifehacker.com/5717749/