Office gadgets fall into the broader category of office supplies and are far more entertaining than a box of paper clips or a stapler.
I remember when fax machines consisted of a sheet of paper wrapped around a cylinder, a phone receiver in a modem cradle and the words of the fax message burned onto the rapidly spinning thermal paper. It was the time when dinosaurs roamed the earth.
My first experience with "modern" computers was also a few years ago and involved the phone receiver resting in a modem cradle in order to connect to the server. Shortly thereafter, the Ice Age began and dinosaurs became extinct.
Fast forward to today. Whether you work in a corporate office setting or a home office, gadgets are an integral part of daily business life.
Here are a few of my personal favorites:
Cordless phone with caller ID -- I can't imagine talking on the phone without having the ability to get up, pour another cup of coffee and walk aimlessly around the office--doing anything short of paying attention to the conversation. Caller ID has revolutionized avoiding calls from angry clients and superiors. Brilliant.
Dell Inspiron 6000 Notebook - I know it is not state-of-the-art, but my Dell has been with me through thick and thin and I love it. I can't possibly start my business day until I check my personal email, Facebook account, find out what's new on People.com and play a quick game of Bubble Spinner 2.
Digital Camera - Always handy for taking incriminating photos of co-workers or updating my Facebook photo.
Wireless Mouse - I use it with my Dell. I just HATE using the notebook touchpad.
Printer/Fax/Copier/Scanner Combo - Why have four separate gadgets when you can have one that will break down rendering you completely helpless?
Then there is the Blackberry. Don't have one. Don't want one. 24/7 connectivity does not appeal to me... especially where business is concerned. Alas, I fear I may suffer the same fate as the dinosaurs.
