There has been a lot of buzz regarding the iPad since its release in April 2010.  Although I like and use a Windows based computer, I am lured in by the iPad’s cost, size and social features.  The iPad costs as little as $500, weighs as little as 1.5 pounds, is only .5 inch think and has the flick capabilities of the iPod for easy navigation.

So is an iPad appropriate for business use?  After doing some research, I believe that if you primarily rely on email, internet connectivity and a place to jot meeting notes, etc. then the answer is yes.  It has all the typical features for someone who is mobile most of the time. 

Although the iPad is being crowned as “best” in tablet computing, there may be alternatives in a smart phone/Windows world.  If you really need your Windows environment with iPad like features, then there are some alternatives. 

If you are considering an iPad – I’m still deciding – there will be a new release to the iPad and other tablets this year.  You may want to wait it out until the summer to see what is in store for your dream of a low-cost, low-weight, high-efficiency tablet.  It looks like we have a lot of cool devices to look forward to this year.  It will be interesting to see if any of the Windows/smart phone alternatives are able to compete with the iPad 2.  I know I will be paying attention.

For a small list of anticipated tablets in 2011,  look here:

Author:  Lisa Ryan
lryan@microknowledge.com

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