WHAT IS SKYPE?
Skype is a company that offers free software, downloadable from their Internet website, which enables anyone, anywhere, anytime to place phone calls, transfer files, or instant message over the Internet.
HOW IS SKYPE A USEFUL TOOL AS PART OF A MIS?
Skype is definitely a useful tool and has the potential to be an extremely important part of any MIS. In today�s world business is done globally, not locally. Communication and file transfer are essential and very costly. Skype enables industry to communicate for free, or with minimal cost, depending on location and the service used. In example, an import company will spend a high percentage of their allowable expenses on communication because they are communicating around the world. By utilizing Skype, communication and file transfer overhead are dramatically reduced.
HOW DO I GET SKYPE?
If you�ve ever loaded a new software program onto your computer, or downloaded one from the Internet, you already know how to get Skype! You simply go to the "Download Skype Now� link to the right and download their program to your computer�s hard drive. You are ready to go! Skype will work with any OS including; Windows, MAC, Linux, and even on your PDA by using Windows Pocket PC.
THE NUTS AND BOLTS OF SKYPE:
Once you�ve downloaded Skype to your computer, to activate the program simply click on the start tab. The window as shown to the right will open. To make a call simply click onto the contacts tab, double click the person you wish to speak with, you will be connected if they are available. This service is completely free, as long as both parties have the Skype software on their computer. You can talk day and night for free! The more friends and business associates you tell about Skype, the better for you and them. The only equipment you need in addition to a computer and Internet connection is a headset and microphone, two very inexpensive pieces of equipment. To make your talking more convenient and relaxing I suggest you purchase a computer headset, also very inexpensive. If you do not want to go out to the store, you can even order the headset directly from Skype, they will mail them to your office or home!
You transfer files or communicate by instant message in the same manner. To transfer a file you simply upload it to the appropriate person on your contacts list, they in turn will download it. To communicate by instant message you simply type back and forth in an open dialogue box just like you would on AOL.
Today there are 30,787,870 Skype users, and I expect that number will continue to grow exponentially. Howver, if the person you need to speak with does not have Skype or a computer, you can still reach them inexpensively with "Skype Out". That service lets you call anyone in the world on their land line or cell phone. Simply click on the dial tab of the screen, type the other person�s phone number, the call will be routed from the Internet, to the appropriate phone company�s switching station and the call will be connected!
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
There are two cost schedules for the �Skype Out� service. Skype has identified the 20 most widely called places in the world (see the "Most Widely Called Locations" link to the right), these all cost 1.7 Euro cents per minute to call, approximately $0.02. To see the per minute rates to and from everywhere else in the world, just click on the "Skype Out Rates" link to the right. The cost per minute will vary from place to place, but is still incredibly inexpensive.
A convenient time saving feature of "Skype Out" is that there is no monthly bill. In advance of your calls you simply go their website and prepay the amount of money you wish. When your reserve runs low you simply go back and add to it. You can also get an invoice for your calls made anytime you wish, and print it from the Skype website.
SHARE SKYPE WITH FRIENDS AND BUSINESS ASSOCIATES:
Now that you know what Skype is and you've signed on to save money and operate more efficiently, SPREAD THE WORD! Skype even makes that easy and enjoyable. Simply click on the "Spread The Word" link to the right, type in your associates email address', and Skype will send them all a quick, informative, and fun note about how they can too save money and be more efficient, WITH YOU!
