Hi George, Just one point of clarification. The data CD you create for the client can be restored into the Protection Plus software. The full backup you can do from the business software can be restored into the business software at any time.
It is my understanding that the way to store the completed projects is on a CD. You caould run out of disk space if you stored all the information on your computer. I store the data disk in my safety deposit box. The data stored is the same as the data given to the customer. Then when it comes time for the annual or semi-annual update, the information could be reloaded onto your computer for the update process.
You may wish to create a file as a database that provides you with a way to find the files. I don't keep the files by name. I use a numeric code for each client file. The database helps me locate the case file. Now if anyone gets into my computer, they still need to search more than one program just to find a name, They still don't find the data.
Storing the information this way protects the confidentiality of the customers' information and allows me the needed disk space for additional projects.
The only thing I'm not sure of yet is how long do I store the disks if I am not doing annual updates. Records retention is another issue.
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George A. Childs Owner
Quality Home Inventory Service, Inc. 26 Fox Hunt Dr. #226 Bear, De. 19701
For those who may be shopping for their laptop, I noticed now they have some with "fingerprint" technology. Evidently the only way to log on is with your print...this may be a great sell for customers concern about thier info while we still have them on the laptop. With that said, you'll want to read about discussions from the old board regarding Windows Vista- which is now a standard for new laptops...wish I'd known...oh well
Darin, When I prepare the Data Disk and the Video Disk for the customer, I make a second copy of the data disk and the video disk that I store in my safe deposit box. That way I have the space cleared on my computer for the next project.
This also prevents any potential for someone to access my computer (hackers etc) and find the customer's data.
I also use a computer that is not connected to the internet for my accounting and record keeping. This is also for my protection.
Yes, I do have the anti-virus and firewall protections in place but hackers are always finding ways to get around these things so it's best to be over protective.
I hope this helps.
George
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George A. Childs Owner
Quality Home Inventory Service, Inc. 26 Fox Hunt Dr. #226 Bear, De. 19701
One thing that I'm still not sure how I'm going to handle is the issue of confidentiality and privacy of the client's info. I know there are several ideas out there ranging from completing the entire process onsite, to retaining all the client's info on your office computer to facilitate easy updates. In this day of identity theft and hightened security measures all over the place how will we as professionals safeguard our client's data? Maybe we could discuss how we are all handling this touchy issue.
