The Origami for business users

I know Microsoft has stated that they are aiming Origami devices at the consumer space but there is still considerable discussion about how the UMPC would work for business users.  Rich Schulthess is a listener of my podcasts and left Marc and I a comment about this very thing so I thought I'd bump it up to the front page to start some conversation rolling:

Hey! Just a quick note to let you guys know that my new Creative Zen Vision:M and your fantastic podcasts have turned my commute time into a far more pleasant and informative experience!

I'm a developer who very much shares your love for the tablet PC. I'm typing this on my Acer TravelMate C110 which is my (almost) constant companion.

Thanks for introducing me to Michael Linenberger. I'm midway into his total workday control book and can already see that his ideas will change my opinion of Outlook forever. Thanks also for making me aware of Mind Manager. I was using a mind mapping product named "Mind Genius" but have always felt that it's integration with Office products was not as good as it should be. Looks like Mind Manager did it right and I have a copy on order. Also ordered JCVGantt and InkGestures because of your excellent podcasts.

I certainly agree with your crystal ball about the future of UMPC but I see another role for this device. I'm currently working with Public Safety systems (Police, Fire, and Homeland Security) in Atlanta. The need for mobility is obvious. Now that "broadband everywhere" is essentially a reality, innovative new approaches to front line support are starting to emerge. As an example, look at the capabilities delivered by InfoKall (infokall.com). They are a great example of one of my sayings: "Computers should work for people rathere than the wrong way around". Well designed apps that place computing horsepower INTO process flow really make a difference!

Unfortunately, the leveraging of broadband everywhere and it's importance to mobiity by InfoKall and others has been largely limited to PDAs and you have talked about the limitations of screen size and other fact5ors with these devices. My crystal ball sees some HUGE potential for UMPCs to become smart clients in publis safety, healthcare, and many other business scenarios where mobility is key. I bet we'll soon see ruggedized UMPCs and, when we do, the commercial community will be extremely receptive.

One device that is getting a lot of attention from the software community developing mobile applications for business is the DouCor. I haven't heard you guys comment on it's unique design and form factor and I'd like to hear your thoughts!

Comments

[Rob]

Can't say enough good things about the stowaway keyboard. I also use their mouse.Of course, I don't have the minicomputer yet, but my 8125 smartphone is a good standin for now.