Today, managing information effectively – whether through an online PIM (personal information manager) system or some other method — means managing your life effectively. Business professionals are so inundated with personal notes, addresses, lists, calendars, appointments, reminders, emails, instant messages, faxes, voice mail messages, RSS feeds, alerts and other forms of communication that keeping track of all this information has become a key priority. Losing crucial information often means opportunities lost, which is why many people turn to personal information managers for help.

Internet-based personal information managers range from free online address book solutions to complex web based PIM solutions that integrate your schedule with your employees' calendars. Online PIM solutions are often a great solution for business professionals because, unlike daily planners, the information is accessible from any computer and most mobile devices and information is fully searchable, as well. When looking at Internet-based personal information managers, consider the following:

1. Try a free online address book first for a risk-free PIM test drive.

2. Poll your company to find out how many employees would consider using Internet-based personal information managers.

3. Test out some integrated free web based PIM trials for your computer and cell phone.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use free online address book solutions for simplicity

If you are new to PIM and not sure whether it would be useful, try a free mobile online address book to test the waters. A free phone address book online or online email address book lets you access your contacts from any Internet connection and lets you see the power of using an Internet personal information manager. If your needs are modest, you may find that just organizing your contacts online allows you to get a handle on information overload.

I recommend: Online Contact Manager allows you to store and organize contact information from any location -- even your mobile device. Zexer is a simple-to-use free online address book that lets you find all your contacts from any Internet-connected computer.

Use integrated web-based PIM solutions for additional productivity

If your needs are more complex, an integrated web-based personal information management system is best. This sort of system lets you organize your calendar, contacts, memos, reminders and other information online, so it's always available. Today's systems even let you collaborate with your team, so you can exchange files, requests and information online.

I recommend: Backpack from 37signals is especially designed for small business and allows you and your team to create individual or collaborative to-do lists, calendars, photo galleries, notes, file attachments and page sharing. Chandler is an online PIM that offers reminder alarms, a calendar, notes, list functions and sharing capabilities.

Use online PIM applications on your mobile device

If you travel often, or, if like many business professionals, you are relying on your mobile device more and more while away from the office, look for a mobile PIM solution that works with your cell phone or mobile device. Today's solutions let you easily transfer information from your online PIM or your computer so you can always have the information you need when you're on the go. Make sure that the solution you choose is compatible with your mobile device.

I recommend: Chapura offers a line of products that can help you manage personal information on your cell phone or mobile device. Google Calendar is now available for mobile devices and can help you access and organize your calendar, tasks, contacts, notes, messages and other PIM information while on the go.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  It is a good idea to try free PIM systems before making a purchase, to see how many features you really need. Web-based personal information management is one technological arena where erring on the side of simplicity makes sense.