Futurelawyer

Tech Support. Somebody's Got To Do It.

I have to remember this the next time Diane has a problem with her phone.

Chat GPT Is A Small Business' Best Friend.

I have been exploring the different ways that Chat GPT can be used to augment typical legal research tasks in a solo or small law firm. Another way I have found it useful is in making equipment and computer purchases or upgrades. In a large law firm, equipment decisions require committees and reports and time spent analyzing choices. A solo lawyer doesn't have that kind of manpower. And, I like the idea of being able to make decisions on the spot. Of course, the old saw "act in haste, repent at leisure" can bite you if you act without sufficient analysis. Today's example is in my exploration of an upgrade to my scanning system. In an era of electronic filing systems, and digital data storage, a competent scanner needs to be on every desk. For the last few years, I have used my trusty Fujitsu ScanSnap IX500 scanners, one at home, and one at the office. They are dependable, and have given good service every day. However, they are getting old, and, while still functioning, I wanted to see whether an upgrade was desirable. I asked Chat GPT whether an upgrade was indicated, and got this reply

 

"is it worth it to upgrade a scansnap ix500 to an ix1500?

 

ChatGPT

 

Whether or not it's worth upgrading from a Fujitsu ScanSnap iX500 to an iX1500 depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Design & Interface: The iX1500 has a more modern design with a touchscreen interface, allowing for more straightforward scanning options and profile setups directly from the scanner. If a touchscreen interface appeals to you, this might be a reason to upgrade.

2. Scanning Speed: Both models have similar scanning speeds, so there isn’t a significant advantage to either in this department.

3. Software & Compatibility: Over time, software and driver support for older models might be phased out. The iX1500, being newer, will likely have better support and updates for a longer time. If you frequently use the accompanying software, this might be something to consider.

4. Scan to Cloud Features: The iX1500 offers better integration with cloud services, making it easier to scan documents directly to places like Dropbox, Google Drive, and more. If cloud integration is vital for you, this could be a compelling reason to upgrade.

5. Price: Consider how much you're willing to spend on an upgrade. If your iX500 is still functioning well, the cost of the iX1500 might not justify the benefits.

6. Other Features: The iX1500 offers other features like a better automatic document feeder, more straightforward paper jam resolution, etc. Evaluate these features based on your daily needs.

7. Environmental Impact: From an ecological perspective, it's worth noting that upgrading electronic equipment when the old version is still functional can contribute to electronic waste. If sustainability is a priority for you, you might decide to stick with your iX500 until it no longer meets your needs or stops working.

8. Resale Value: If you choose to upgrade, you could sell your iX500 or pass it on to someone else, potentially offsetting the cost of the new model.

In conclusion, if your iX500 is still functioning well and meets all your needs, you might not find the upgrade to iX1500 immediately necessary. However, if you value the new features, software support, and cloud integration offered by the iX1500, it might be worth the upgrade for you. Consider your specific needs, and weigh the pros and cons before making a decision."

The primary reason an upgrade might be indicated seems to be the ability to scan over WiFi. But, my USB connections work fine, and I really don't need to scan wirelessly. I will keep the old scanners going for a while, and save myself the $500 cost of an upgrade. 

Sure, I could have spent an hour or two scouring the Internet, comparing prices and features. But, I will use the hour or two I saved taking more naps, and telling you about Chat GPT, this wonderful new tool that levels the playing field for solo lawyers.

 

How To Become A Successful ChatGPT Prompt Writer.

In this brave new world, the user who is able to coax usable analysis and information from ChatGPT will be the most successful. Be careful out there, as there are a lot of people trying to make money pretending they are ChatGPT gurus. In my experience, you will become better by just using the thing, and learning as you do. There are some structural devices that will help you, however. The attached checklist is a good way to begin. Tell ChatGPT who, what, when, where and why. Tell it what tone you want it to use. Ask yourself the questions on the attached list and then ask ChatGPT to give an answer. I have printed a copy of the attached prompt idea list to keep handy. So, I have provided it in photo format. You can type it out and print it yourself if you like. I didn't write it, but, if you browse around, you will find many lists like it.

Make Your Windows Computer Work Like You Want It To.

Microsoft Power Toys. Power Toys is a Microsoft utility that contains many ways to customize your Windows computer. Want to make your machine yours? The Power Toys tools are the way. You can resize screens, make windows show always on top, quickly mute video conferences (avoids embarrassment), create keyboard shortcuts, launch apps instantaneously with a key combination, rename files in bulk, and a host of other cool functions. Install it. Play with it. Enjoy power and toys. What more could you want?

O Ye Of Little Faith - The Kindle Scribe Is Already Getting Updates.

I got an email this morning from Amazon, highlighting the first updates to the Kindle Scribe. Naysayers have been complaining that the note taking features were not as robust as the other EInk pads out there; but, the combination of basic note taking with the Kindle library made me and others buy it. Well, Amazon is already upgrading the note functions, and the first update is available already. The email this morning said the following:

Your Kindle Scribe is getting new brush types and new notebook subfolder capabilities

New features are ready starting today.

What's new?

Different writing tools for your different writing needs are ready to go. Try the new fountain pen for beautiful calligraphy, switch to marker to emphasize your notes, or use the new pencil for sketching. Also, keep your notes organized with new subfolder capabilities.

The updates will automatically download and install on your Kindle Scribe when connected wirelessly. 

For my more impatient friends, the updates can be downloaded manually now.

In the coming months, Kindle Scribe will add lasso copy/paste tools, improved notebook organization and navigation, and the ability to send documents to Kindle Scribe directly from within Microsoft Word (Microsoft 365 subscription required).

I am loving my Scribe even more.

Stardock Start 11 - Control Your Windows 11 Interface.

Stardock Start 11. One of the first programs I install when I get a new computer is Start 11 from Stardock. I hate the tiled interface, and I bought this little $5 program when Windows 7's efficient lower left interface went away some years ago. It is still only $5.99, and it transforms the way I interact with the computer. Microsoft ruined the beautiful, simple lower left menu buttons when it went with the ugly tiles. Of course, interfaces are a highly personal thing, and Stardock recognizes that, giving you the option to pick and choose how your menu system looks and works. For six bucks, your regain control over your computer use. Thanks, Stardock.

#TBT - NSFW - Aunt Chippy Tells Us How To Wrap A Package.

Note: Fair warning. If profanity bothers you, do NOT watch this video. Aunt Chippy is as frustrated wrapping Xmas gifts as the rest of us. I was wrapping gifts this morning, and it occurred to me that I am not a gift wrapping genius. So, I took a break, and am watching Aunt Chippy for ideas.

 

You Live In Your Keyboard. Don't Be A Wimp. Get A Razer.

Razer Black Widow Ultimate. Long, long ago, computer keyboards were large beasts, with mechanical keys and deep travel, and they made a satisfying click when the keys were pressed. They were loud, obnoxious, and a touch typists dream. Then, over time, weaselly little keyboards came into fashion, driven by the need to maximize space in portable notebook computers. We accomplished touch typists, joined by a burgeoning army of teens playing video games, demanded that a modern keyboard be developed that focused on the speed and accuracy of mechanical keyboards. In 2016, I purchased a Razer Black Widow Ultimate, and have used it ever since. It is, hands down, the best keyboard made, and I joined it with a Razer Death Adder mouse. They are USB wired devices (no wimpy bluetooth connection required), and I love them. However, the other day, I spilled a glass of water, and the keyboard stopped working. I was going to throw it out, and purchase another Razer keyboard; but, in a flash of insight, decided to see if it could be saved. Diane's hairdryer, I thought, might dry out the keyboard, and I crossed my fingers while blowing hot air over the board. Amazingly, after a couple of minutes, the keyboard sprang to life, and I was back typing at a speed that once beat every person in my typing class in high school. I was so motivated that I did a deep clean of the board, and it now looks and works like new. You live in your keyboard. Get a Razer.

InBox Zero - It's Aspirational.

I cringe sometimes when I see InBoxes with thousands of unread emails. Since most lawyers practice law in their inboxes these days, every email carries risk and reward. Careful pruning of the sublime and the ridiculous is required when tasks can be essential or useless. The discipline required to reach InBox Zero is essential to a competent lawyer's life. I do it by dealing with email on a regular basis during the day. I immediately delete ads, spam, and other non essential communications. If an email requires action, and I don't have time or energy to deal with it right away, I have created a folder I call Pending, which I delve into whenever time permits. During a vacation week like this Thanksgiving vacation, the Pending folder can sometimes get large. However, this isn't much different than the old days, when we would accumulate piles of paper correspondence that had to be postponed. Archival stuff, like case or software purchases, etc. I save in Folders named for the case or software. Of course, InBox Zero is an impossible goal, and, like excellence, it is something to be sought after; but, never achieved. So, Ms. Lawyer, get organized and solo on.

Cool Things Your Android Phone Can Do That You Aren't Doing.

Tips For Android Settings. Android has matured into the best operating system for phones, and it can do a lot of stuff you haven't known about. Some of the coolest tips:

1. Turn Wi-Fi on Automatically

2. Use Less Data

3. Start Driving Mode Automatically

4. Manage What Apps Can Do on Your Phone

 

There are many more tips in this useful article. Check it out.