Since its introduction in the USA on April 3rd 2010, two million people have snapped up the iPad. With it now being available in countries around the world, sales will increase dramatically. But why buy the iPad? What is it used for? Is it for personal use or can it be used as a business tool? Is only aimed at IT experts?

Business Intentions

A recent survey conducted by Citrix has found that 80% of those surveyed intend to use the iPad for businesses purposes, with 50% expecting their companies to purchase them. But how can the iPad be used for small business and what are the key features?

Useful Features for Small Businesses

For the iPad to become a tool that is relied upon by businesses of all sizes, it must serve a certain purpose. There are already certain features that small businesses may benefit from:

iWork

Apple has imported the iWork office compatible productivity suite which has undergone some improvements. Programmes such as Keynote, Pages and Numbers are available in the iStore which allow for document creation that can be synced with Macs.  All of the iWork iPad apps enable the user to import and export fairly easily and also allows for Microsoft Office documents to be imported as well: a big plus. This app is the first desk top class productivity suite specifically designed for Multi-Touch according to Apple. It is very easy to use whilst at the same time being extremely powerful.

Email, Calendar, Contacts

Being able to check your emails whilst on the go in a matter of minutes is vital to many businesses and this is possible with the iPad. Access to contact addresses and other information mean that users can check maps and telephone numbers on the way to meetings or lunches with clients.

Security

Perhaps one of the biggest concerns when using the iPad will be whether it has enough security to protect vital documents and information. Users will be relieved to know that with the iPad there are several layers of security. Passwords and pass codes can be used to protect data and, in the event of a theft or accidental loss, it is even possible to remotely wipe the device of all its data.

Safari web browser

One of the best features that will make the iPad a truly useful business tool is the safari web browser, which allows for whole web pages to be viewed as well as allowing access to company intranet and other platforms. Remote internet access will be a huge draw for many, especially on a device that is as small and light as the iPad.

Applications

As with the iPhone, there are thousands upon thousands of apps available. Business apps are increasing dramatically and include those offering scheduling, spellchecker and scanning.

Downsides to the iPad

As with every technological creation, there are always some downsides and the iPad is no different. There are some obvious omissions that may make it lose some admirers in business circles:

No Support for Flash

Flash ads and certain videos are not able to be shown on the iPad due to Apple’s reluctance to support Abode, effectively ruling out access to certain web pages.

Multitasking

It is only possible to operate one application at a time. This may be a huge turn off for many businesses.

No USB Port

There is no USB port in which memory sticks or thumbs can be inserted to transfer files to the iPad. This may put off people who need to regularly use this feature.

Is it worth the investment?

The jury is very much out on the iPad. There continues a debate as to whether it is worth purchasing an iPad or to just buy a netbook instead. Whatever people’s views, there can be no doubting that the iPad has some very useful features that will benefit most businesses. It is portable, powerful, has a growing list of apps, is secure and has internet access. Many businesses will find it to be a very useful device.

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