If you’re a business professional, mobile computing can be a frustrating experience. You may need to find a phone socket in an unfamiliar location, or access the Internet over a slow dial-up connection. Today there are many wireless devices available for the mobile professional that remove the hassle of getting connected to the Internet and keep you productive when you’re away from the office, but the complexity of making all of these digital devices work together often seems to outweigh their convenience. Apple understands this challenge and has designed a set of solutions that gives you a complete “Internet environment”, with fast access, easy connectivity and the ability to access the data you need anywhere, at any time, on the device you prefer to use.

Members of the Apple Solution Experts programme also understand the challenges of mobile technology, and they are experts in developing and recommending solutions that make becoming mobile an easy experience. Together, Apple and the Apple Solution Experts programme make a winning combination that can help you easily enjoy the benefits of high-speed wireless connectivity along with the ever-growing selection of mobile and digital devices.

Many Apple Solution Experts can work with you to help install, configure and maintain a wireless network that can pay for itself in reduced costs, increased productivity and other tangible benefits. They are well versed in the many mobile and wireless solutions such as AirPort, iSync, Bluetooth and .Mac, and can recommend the solution that is best for you. Whether you need to setup a wireless network or configure your MacBook Pro for easy mobile access, members can provide the help that you need.

Step 1: Determine your needs, requirements and budget
First establish your goals and requirements. You’ll want to consider which technologies best fit your needs and how much you have to spend on your solution. Members of the Apple Solution Experts programme can help you create a seamless mobile solution. In addition to determining your technical needs and requirements, they can develop a set of options that best fit your budget.

Step 2: Determine the elements of your solution
Next, you’ll need to determine the level of flexibility that you’re looking for, the types of devices that work best with your lifestyle, and the overall technical requirements that will be suitable within your work environment. The foundation of any wireless and mobile solution is a powerful portable computer. MacBook Pro computers are an excellent mobile option as they come with a built-in wireless card.

In addition to wireless Internet access, Bluetooth technology, which is built into all currently shipping Macs, enables short-range wireless connections between desktop and portable computers, handhelds, mobile phones, keyboards and even a computer mouse. For those times when you don’t need all the functionality of a computer, you can augment your portable solution with mobile devices such as a Palm OS device or mobile phone. Or you can connect your computer to your mobile phone to send and receive instant messages or dial an important number from your address book. Members of the Apple Solution Experts programme can not only help you select these mobile and wireless essentials, but they can also help clarify the complexity of making all of your digital devices work together.

Step 3: Set up Your mobile solution
Once the elements of your mobile solution have been established, members of the Apple Solution Experts programme can set up your solution, ensuring that your computer, AirPort Extreme Base Station, digital devices and software work together to create your perfect mobile environment. They can help set up your wireless network, expand the functionality of your Bluetooth-enabled phone, and synchronise all of your devices with iSync. Members can also show you how to tap into Apple’s .Mac Internet services for extra convenience, reliability and productivity. They’ll suggest which products to purchase, assist you with software installation, and explain how to choose and work with the appropriate Internet Service Providers. You’ll learn how to use and set up these technologies so that you can gain the most for your business. And, once your mobile solution is implemented, members will test its reliability, troubleshoot for errors and modify it based on your needs.

Step 4: Obtain ongoing support and maintenance
When you are comfortable with your mobile setup, you’ll want to maximise your investment. Members of the Apple Solution Experts programme can provide training and any follow-up service you may need. And, as your business grows, they can help you add to your mobile solution by upgrading and reconfiguring your equipment. They can act as your virtual IT staff, bringing a high level of technical expertise to your company, without the expense of a full-time IT staff.