Candid conversations about using GPS and wireless technology for work and fun.
Archive for November, 2009
What Are You Thankful For?
Nov 25th
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Thanksgiving is right around the corner and although the turkey and mashed potatoes get a lot of the attention, it’s important to take time to reflect upon all the things in your life that you’re thankful for. Recently, I went around our Sunnyvale office and asked some of my coworkers to share what in their life they’re thankful for. Here’s what they said.
Enjoy!
Video: TeleNav Track demo’d at Interop NYC
Nov 25th
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Last week, we spent some time with AT&T at Interop in NYC. Take a look at this video to see AT&T’s Patrick O’Connor and TeleNav’s Chris Johnson give a demo on TeleNav Track and explain how it might help your business save money and improve operations.
Are you already using TeleNav Track or another GPS service for your business?
What results have you seen?
Thanksgiving Travel Tips
Nov 23rd
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Gobble Gobble! Thanks to XyberMatthew for use of the photo.
Do you smell that? Turkey, gravy, and mashed potatoes… Yup, Thanksgiving is almost here! But before you get on the road to your destination, be sure you and your car are ready for the long trip. To make sure you are, we’ve put together this short list of tips to help you before you hit the road.
Check your stuff, yo!
Have you checked your car’s antifreeze levels, tires (condition, air pressure), battery/ignition system, brakes, exhaust system, fuel and air filters, heater and defroster, lights and flashing hazard lights, oil, thermostat, and windshield wiper equipment? If not, make it a priority before your hit the road.
(I dare you to say that five times fast)
What Would Al Roker Do?
Weather. It can make the difference between a sun-filled drive to Grandma’s house and a trip that’s filled with snow and ice. Know the forecast so you can appropriately plan ahead.
Of course, if you live in Hawaii, feel free to completely ignore this part. Do you guys get tired of seeing rainbows? ;)
Buckle Up, Buttercup
I know what you’re saying – “Well, duh. Thank you for the tip, Captain Obvious.” But seriously, buckling up is important and it’s easily overlooked, especially when you’re in a hurry. Wear your seat belt. There. We said it. Your mom will be proud of us.
Emergency Kit
Do you have one? If you do, have you checked it this year? Does it have one of those really cool glow sticks? Man, those are cool.
Okay, but besides those, it should also have a lot of other stuff including a battery powered radio, a flash light, blankets, water, first aid kit, fire extinguisher, matches, extra clothes, necessary medication, chains/ropes, extra clothes, a shovel, a tire kit, non-perishable food, and some flares.
Gas – Do you have it?
At all times during the winter, be sure to have at least a half tank. Scrambling to find a gas station when you’re almost out during the winter months is no fun. Watch your gas levels closely.
Of course, if you have a certain GPS navigation application on your phone, finding a gas station should not be an issue. ;)
Time, Marty! Time!
During the holiday season, it seems everyone and their grandma’s are hitting the roads and it’s because they are. With increased traffic comes the need for increased safety precautions one should take while driving. And as such, slowing things down and not rushing should be a priority while on the road.
Manage your time properly so you aren’t putting yourself or others in danger.
Your Phone Doesn’t Eat Turducken
Unfortunately, we have yet to create an infinitely powered battery. As such, chances are at some point during your trip, your phones battery will probably drain. In this situation, be sure to have a handy dandy car charger to make sure you can make calls when you need to.
What to do when you slip and slide…
Before you take off on your journey to eat your aunt’s tofurkey, be sure you understand how to drive in icy weather. Have no clue how? Be sure to read this: “How to Recover from a Skid While Driving on Ice.”
Sleep
No, I’m not saying sleep while driving (I don’t even know how that would work). What I am saying is getting the proper amount of sleep is important. If you’re sleepy, drowsy, or tired, you’re awareness and focus while driving will be decreased.
Before you start your car, be sure you’ve gotten enough rest and have enough energy to safely make the drive to your destination.
Serenity NOW!
With the holiday season comes an increased level of stress and for some of us, that may reach a climax while on the road. With the increased traffic, icy roads, and pressure to get to our destinations on time, it’s important to remember – you’re not on the NASCAR circuit. While on the roads, be sure to take deep breathes and relax. It’s okay if that person passes us on the left. Yes, yes it is.
Thanksgiving is a wonderful time of year (and one of my favorites). It’s a time to be with our families and friends, eat some amazing food, and reflect upon all the things we’re thankful for. But for many of us, the road to our first bite of turkey is long and windy. Please before you hit the road, be sure you are prepared so you can make it safely to your destination.
This list, while meant to be informative, is not the end all, be all list to winter driving. For more information, please see this guide.
What other winter driving tips do you have?
TeleNav Lends a Helping Hand
Nov 19th
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The TeleNav Group Helping Out at Second Harvest Food Bank
If you read the blog last week, you may remember this post from Selena G. regarding the kick-off of TeleNav’s Season of Giving. As Selena mentioned, this year we’re supporting the efforts of our local food bank, Second Harvest, through a food collection competition among the various departments here at TeleNav. We also became an official sponsor of Second Harvest’s Food and Fund Drive, which helps to make sure everyone has food on their table during the holiday season.
In addition to the competition we’re having in the office, we decided to head out of the office to support Second Harvest’s efforts to feed those in our local community. A couple of nights ago a few of us headed down to their warehouse and joined a large group of volunteers to help pack up some food packages for families in need. The people at Second Harvest were great and we really enjoyed meeting all of the volunteers and getting to know each other outside of the office walls.
Hong C. Having Fun Packing Food
If you have some extra time on your hands this holiday season, I’d strongly encourage you to volunteer at your local food bank or one of the many non-profit organizations serving your community. They truly depend on volunteers to help those in need and I can tell you that it’s a great experience. It’s also a good team building activity, so you may want to suggest to your manager or HR department that your company get involved in a similar program. Those of us from TeleNav who volunteered had a great time and we’re already talking about the next opportunity.
Selena G. Working Hard at Second Harvest Food Bank
We’d love to hear stories you may have about volunteering as an individual or with your company.
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