Founded to guarantee the safety of its founder's grandmother, Medical Guardian has become a prominent provider of medical alert systems and monitoring services, enabling individuals to live independently and securely. With over 310,000 satisfied customers, Medical Guardian provides customers with dependable support through phone, email, chat, and a convenient online portal. The company's accreditation from the Better Business Bureau further solidifies its reliability.
Our comprehensive review of Medical Guardian showcases how the introduction of the Medical Guardian Freedom smartwatch and the Family Guardian caretaker tracking system have positioned Medical Guardian among the leading choices in the market.
Medical Guardian: Medical alert systems
Medical Guardian provides various medical alert systems beyond the standard services.
Let's examine each system:
MGClassic: An affordable in-home landline system with a wireless pendant boasting the longest range tested. However, greater range may not always be advantageous as it can impede effective communication with emergency responders when far from the base station.
MGHome Cellular: An in-home system utilizing a cellular network. It's the well-known Mobilehelp CBS5 system, featuring exceptional speaker quality, providing clear and loud audio for seamless communication with emergency responders.
MGMini: A reliable mobile pendant-style device that includes GPS location tracking, making it easier and faster for EMTs to locate you in an emergency.
MGMini Lite: Another mobile system with GPS and Wi-Fi location tracking, providing a more precise determination of your location when help is needed. It's conveniently designed as a wrist style, similar to a watch.
The Freedom Guardian was the first medical alert smartwatch to hit the market in 2018. (Image credit: Future)
MGMove: The most stylish option, a sleek smartwatch with a color display and up to 24 hours of battery life. Unlike most smartwatches, it doesn't require a smartphone connection due to its cellular capabilities. It offers excellent audio quality, text-to-speech capabilities, and even additional apps like a weather forecast. Notably, it's user-friendly, making it accessible for those unfamiliar with smartwatches or smartphones, while providing more than just a safety net. Its non-medical alert appearance makes it appealing to many seniors.
Unfortunately, the pricing for the plans for these devices is opaque, and requires company contact. We prefer some transparency on this allowing seniors to cross shop the prices and stay within their budget.
Medical Guardian: Emergency response center
In our evaluation, Medical Guardian outperformed most services by promptly answering emergency calls in less than 30 seconds on average. Their response time consistently ranked among the fastest in every round of testing, although it was not always the absolute fastest. This impressive performance is largely attributed to the high-quality call center they have partnered with, ensuring prompt assistance in critical situations.
Medical Guardian's Classic Guardian has a pendant range of over 1,300 feet. (Image credit: Future)
In addition to the emergency response speed, we analyzed the call quality. The quality of the calls was consistently excellent, which is primarily due to the call center partnered with Medical Guardian. In comparison, some emergency response centers had inconsistent scripts and disinterested operators. However, Medical Guardian had operators who followed an effective script, and they sounded genuine. They repeatedly asked if we needed assistance and confirmed our identity, which is a small but impactful security measure.
Medical Guardian: Medical alert service
Medical Guardian is known for its "Client Support" department, emphasizing customer service. However, while the assistance provided is commendable, we find the marketing approach to be somewhat overly assertive. While we understand that every business aims to drive sales, the marketing tactics employed at times seem excessive.
Medical Guardian has excellent customer service, with an aggressive marketing team. (Image credit: Medical Guardian)
We took the risk assessment, expecting a call from a "safety specialist" or a third-party consultant. We were surprised to receive a call from a sales representative. Despite answering all questions with responses indicating no risk (no falls, no medical issues, no medications, regular exercise, and no need for mobility assistance), the representative still recommended the purchase of the Classic Guardian. We would have preferred the assessment's conclusion to be something like "Congratulations! You don't need a medical alert system."
In terms of support options, the first and only route is to contact them at the Customer Service number, 1-800-313-1191, which is available Monday to Friday 9:00 am to 8:00 pm EST, reduced hours on Saturday and closed on Sunday. For other direct support options, we did not find a direct email, a chat, or a support portal.
On the self support side, we did find some FAQ’s, along with videos, and a customer portal. We did not find other content, such as online guides, whitepapers, or a blog.
Medical Guardian has above-average pricing, though there are more affordable systems on the market. (Image credit: Medical Guardian)
Medical Guardian: Final verdict
Despite appearing like just another medical alert company, Medical Guardian stands out due to the addition of the Freedom Guardian smartwatch and the Family Guardian activity tracking system. These unique features set Medical Guardian apart from its competitors.
When you combine these options with impressive US-based emergency call performance that is quite fast, the choice of Medical Guardian becomes compelling.
The pricing of the plans needs to be more transparent, but we like the wide choice of devices from this provider. It is no wonder Medical Guardian has earned recognition as one of the leading medical alert systems in the market, and should be considered for your needs.
Microsoft Visio is a powerful diagramming and flowchart software platform that’s up there with the most popular in the world. Originally released in 1992, it was bought by Microsoft in 2000 and has been regularly updated in the years since.
Even the most cursory glance shows why Visio is used by business owners and marketers across the world. It offers great tools, comes with a beginner-friendly interface, is affordable, and even includes a 30-day free trial.
However, be warned: compared with other flowchart and diagram-making tools, Visio is difficult to get hold of.
(Image credit: Future)
Microsoft Visio: Plans and pricing
Microsoft Visio comes with a range of different pricing options suited to everyone from individual users to large businesses. New users have the choice of two monthly plans, two permanent licenses, and a 30-day free trial.
There isn’t a free version, but there is a basic version, included in Microsoft 365 plans. This features basic editing, limited templates, real-time collaboration, commenting, and sharing, and the usual Microsoft 365 security, privacy, and support.
It’s useful for home use, but not really suitable in the workplace. For that, you’ll need Visio Plan 1 or Plan 2.
Visio’s two monthly subscriptions are both based on a per user model, with a range of useful tools and no lock-in contracts. Visio Plan 1 costs just $5.00 per user per month if you pay annually or $6.00 with monthly payments. It includes access to the Visio web app and 2 GB of OneDrive storage, and allows users to create simple diagrams directly with their internet browser.
Alternatively, signing up for Visio Plan 2 costs $15.00 per user per month ($18.00 with monthly payments) and includes the Visio desktop app. It comes with a much wider selection of tools and is a better choice for larger businesses and those who want to create more advanced diagrams and flowcharts.
Along these monthly subscriptions, Visio offers two permanent licenses for those who want to buy the software outright. A Visio Standard 2021 license will cost you $309.99 for the program’s basic features. It allows you to work on both your desktop or a tablet/hybrid and includes the most common tools.
The pricier Visio Professional 2021 costs $579.99, meanwhile, and comes with advanced features for larger businesses, including powerful collaboration tools.
It’s worth noting that both the Standard and Professional license are only valid for one computer.
(Image credit: Future)
Microsoft Visio: Features
Visio comes with an impressive range of native features that back its reputation as an industry-leading diagramming and flowcharting program.
For starters, Visio allows users to easily create professional flowchart diagrams. You can base your design on any one of a range of powerful templates or start with a blank canvas.
Visio’s collaboration tools are up there with the best we’ve seen. They allow team members to work on the same document from different devices, increasing productivity and eliminating the need for third-party messaging apps.
Another of our favorite things about Visio is its ability to integrate with real-time data sources. This means that you can set your flowcharts and diagrams to automatically update when new information becomes available. A few of the things you can link to include Microsoft Excel workbooks, SQL Server databases, and Access databases.
Visio also offers impressive flexibility, with both desktop and web versions available. The web app is a great tool for those who regularly work from different devices, as it doesn’t require a PC-specific license.
Finally, Microsoft Visio also comes with complete Microsoft 365 integrations, allowing you to easily connect your project to programs like Excel and Word to further streamline workflow processes.
(Image credit: Future)
Microsoft Visio: Ease of use
Visio supports desktop and browser-based use. Both interfaces are extremely intuitive and beginner friendly.
Selecting a shape to begin composing your first diagram is as simple as you would expect. While different to most other Microsoft tools, Visio nevertheless shares a collection of standard tools found in other diagramming and flowchart apps. If you’re familiar with competing tools, it won’t take long for you to develop familiarity with Microsoft Visio.
The web version is the simplest, and also a great option for those who want to work on the go. It’s very easy to navigate and comes with Visio’s core features. The desktop app is even more impressive, allowing you to perform advanced actions and create high-quality diagrams at the touch of a button. Its collaboration features and integrations with other Microsoft software will help you streamline team feedback and various other processes.
(Image credit: Future)
Microsoft Visio: Customer support
Microsoft Visio’s support offering is disappointing, lacking live chat and phone help. However, there are a few other options available to users.
For starters, the Visio help center contains a wide range of articles, video tutorials, and how-to guides. It’s a great first choice when you’re having trouble understanding how to do something. Alternatively, users can also make use of the Visio community forum or reach out to the Microsoft team via an online contact form.
Being a Microsoft product, you’re not going to be short of answers online. The problem is finding the right answer – even on Microsoft’s own support forums, that’s not always easy.
Microsoft Visio: The competition
Although Microsoft Visio is a powerful tool for those who need to create top-quality diagrams and visualize workplace processes or data, there are numerous alternatives out there.
For example, Lucidchart is a popular option due to its affordability and the slightly different features it offers. It is important to recognize, however, that the landscape has shifted considerably over the past few years. Strong alternatives to Visio exist, such as EdrawMax and Canva Flowchart Maker, both of which have free versions.
Given how difficult it is to access Visio even with a Microsoft 365 account, these competing tools might be easier to sign up to and use.
Microsoft Visio: Final verdict
Microsoft Visio has developed a reputation as one of the best diagramming and visualization programs in the world, and for good reason. It comes with an impressive range of tools, great collaboration features, four different payment options, and a 30-day free trial.
However, Visio does fall down slightly on the customer service front, and some of its competitors offer significantly cheaper subscription options. In some cases, the competition is free.
All things considered, it’s certainly worth considering Visio as an option if you’re looking for a powerful program to streamline workflow processes. But if you need a flowchart or diagramming solution in a pinch and you don’t have a suitable Microsoft account already, look elsewhere.
In 2006, Michael Hollauf and Till Vollmer founded their company, Meister, launching MindMeister a year later. It’s a web-based, cross-platform app that helps you capture your ideas, develop them, and share them visually with others. MindMeister can be used for brainstorming, planning projects, taking notes, and more.
Today, Meister is an international company that employs 50+ people in Munich, Vienna, and Seattle. Over 14 million people use MindMeister, and the company’s second product, MeisterTask, is a well-regarded collaborative task management software platform.
(Image credit: MindMeister)
MindMeister: Plans and pricing
If you are new to MindMeister, you can use the Basic plan free of charge. Though limited (you can only create a maximum of three mind maps), you can still test out most of the functionality included in MindMeister and receive support from the Meister team via email.
Users who want to create a larger number of mind maps should opt for one of the paid subscription plans. If you upgrade to the Personal plan ($6.50 per person per month), you get the ability to create as many mind maps as you would like, attach files and images, and print your mind map or export it as an image or PDF.
Upgrading to the Pro plan ($10.50 per user per month) adds Google Workspace tools, more customization options, and additional export options. The Business plan ($15.50 per user per month) comes with regulatory compliance features, a custom domain that your collaborators can use to access your projects, and priority support via email and telephone.
(Payments based on annual subscription. A 6-monthly option is also available.)
Meister offers discounts to those affiliated with academic or nonprofit institutions. If you want both mind mapping software and task management tools, you can purchase both of Meister’s products at a 30% discount.
(Image credit: Future)
MindMeister: Features
When creating a mind map, you can get started with a blank document in the editor. However, if that’s overwhelming, you can choose to begin with one of the templates provided by MindMeister instead. The map template library has many options from which you can choose, including ones for brainstorming, taking notes, and writing a business plan.
MindMeister features collaboration tools that allow you to share your mind maps with as many people as you'd like. They can comment and edit in real-time, which makes sure that everyone is on the same page.
The History Mode included with MindMeister lets you see all of the changes that have been made to your mind map over time. You can see when the changes were made as well as who made the change.
MindMeister allows you to create various types of mind maps, and the app includes templates to help you get started. The drag-and-drop editor allows you to work on your mind maps with ease, and you can upload custom items, such as background images and logos, for use with your projects.
If you need to present your ideas, MindMeister has features that help you turn your mind maps into presentations similar to those you would create with Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides.
Meister also puts out MeisterTask, which is a task management suite. It integrates well with MindMeister if you are interested in placing mind maps into your task and planning notes.
(Image credit: Future)
MindMeister: Ease of use
MindMeister’s clean, modern interface is appealing, and the minimalist toolbars and context menus make it easy for you to find the features you want to use. There is a learning curve as you get used to where MindMeister has placed certain things, but for the most part, we found it easy to get started with a template and add, edit, or remove items.
MindMeister also offers a mobile-friendly version so that you can view projects as well as create, edit, or comment on mind maps when you’re away from a laptop/desktop. The apps were fairly well designed, but as mind maps got bigger, we found it more challenging to work on the smaller screens.
MindMeister: Customer support
You should enjoy a headache-free MindMeister experience, but if you encounter any challenges, click the ? button in the lower-right corner of the design space. This provides links to keyboard shortcuts, tutorials, a feature requests form, and the Help Center.
The searchable MindMeister Help Center includes step-by-step how-to articles as well as answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. MindMeister also offers tutorial videos and training courses.
If you want to reach out to the MindMeister team, you can do so via email. Those with the enterprise-grade Business subscriptions receive priority email and telephone support.
MindMeister: The competition
If you want to look at several options for mind mapping before making your final decision, there are several alternatives you should consider, including Lucidchart and draw.io.
Lucidchart is a web-based diagramming and flowchart creator tool that, while not strictly designed for mind mapping, can be used for such. It comes with some fairly advanced features, including built-in data/analytics tools. However, Lucidchart tries to make its product accessible despite its power feature set and functionality.
If what you’re looking for is a simple, easy-to-use solution for quick drawings, consider draw.io. It is free to use, and though it doesn’t pack a punch the way MindMeister and Lucidchart do, it may be sufficient for simple drawings.
MindMeister: Final verdict
MindMeister is a powerful, feature-rich mind mapping tool that can be used to visually convey your ideas. Furthermore, MindMeister comes with useful tools that facilitate collaboration, track changes to mind maps over time, and more.
Most importantly, it’s easy to use. Effortlessly getting your ideas into visual form is an important part of the creative process, so this is a particular strength of MindMeister.
Though the product’s applications are somewhat limited and the support team offers only email-based contact to most users, MindMeister is nevertheless a great option for its intended audience.
Lucidchart is one of the best flowchart software platforms available. Powerful and data-based, it is used by 99% of the world’s largest Fortune 500 companies. Based on professional flowchart diagrams, it’s a great choice for those looking for actionable information that they can use to improve company workflow processes.
A web based (HTML5) tool that enables online collaboration among local and distributed teams, Lucidchart has been around since 2008. It’s become quite a big name in the diagramming market, hence the high regard in which it is held.
Along with an impressive range of features suited to businesses of all sizes, Lucidchart comes with a great free trial and easy-to-use templates to get you started.
We’ve spent some time using Lucidchart to help you decide if it is the right tool for your purposes. Lucidchart has been evaluated based on price, features, ease of use, support provision, and competing tools.
(Image credit: Lucidchart)
Lucidchart: Plans and pricing
With both personal and business plans, Lucidchart offers a range of pricing options for users of all sizes. It’s worth noting that all subscriptions include a free trial so you can test before you buy.
The Free subscription is quite limited but gives you access to free shape libraries and all design templates. It’s a good choice if you just want to play around and make a few diagrams for your personal project.
On the other hand, the Individual subscription costs $7.95 per month but offers significantly more powerful features. Among these are 1 GB of storage, unlimited documents and shapes, Visio import and export, premium shape libraries, and premium templates.
If you’re looking for a more powerful subscription to cover your entire business, Lucidchart’s Team plan starts at just $9 per user user per month. This plan includes everything in the personal Pro plan, along with revision history, the Visual Activities feedback tool, collaboration tools, and a range of useful integrations with Microsoft, Google. You also get access to the Lucidchart API.
If you’re running a larger business, Lucidchart also offers a custom Enterprise plan which is priced according to your needs. Along with this, it includes a range of management features and optional enhancements to help you boost your business.
(Image credit: Lucidchart)
Lucidchart: Features
As one of the leading diagramming tools available, Lucidchart comes with an impressive range of noteworthy features. We’ve covered some of the best here, but it’s by no means a comprehensive list.
One of the most noteworthy things about Lucidchart is its great list of keyboard shortcuts. Designed to help you streamline otherwise time-consuming processes, you should find that these dramatically improve your productivity.
Lucidchart also comes with powerful layering features. These allow you to create diagrams within diagrams, which should, in turn, help you build a clean, intuitive layout that’s easy to understand.
Similarly, you can also keep things simple by linking to text boxes or blocks within your diagram. These will only appear when the relevant element is clicked.
There’s nothing more annoying than having to communicate with your coworkers via email or other messaging apps. Luckily, Lucidchart includes a range of integrated collaboration features which you can use to communicate with your team members while you’re working. Asana, Atlassian, Microsoft, and Google products are all supported. There is even the option to use Microsoft Copilot to produce AI summaries of your diagrams.
Traditional diagramming software can be messy and hard to work with, especially if you have to create neat, presentation-quality images. However, Lucidchart includes a range of “smart” design elements which automatically keep your diagrams tidy.
(Image credit: Future)
Lucidchart: Ease of use
An in-depth trial of the Lucidchart user interface shows why it’s up there with the best management software available. It’s easy to use from the beginning and took us no more than a couple of minutes to get the hang of.
On top of this, Lucidchart allows you to specify exactly what you’re going to be using it for. Doing so causes the most relevant tools to be presented in an easy-access dashboard.
When you actually begin to build your first diagram, you will be able to start with a blank document or choose from one of a range of templates. From there, it’s all a matter of adding the elements you want via the intuitive editing interface.
These are accessed via a menu on the left-hand side of the screen. Standard formatting tools can be found across the top of the interface, and right-clicking a placed element will reveal a context menu. It’s all easy to use, uncomplicated, and fast.
Remember, this is browser-based software, so you can use it on any operating system provided you have a compatible browser.
(Image credit: Future)
Lucidchart: Customer support
Unfortunately, Lucidchart does fall down slightly on the customer service and support front. It doesn’t offer any online live chat, but it does come with quite an impressive resource center and community forum.
If you do want to speak with a member of the Lucidchart team, you will have to call or reach out via their social media pages. Helpfully, a Lucidchart flowchart illustrates the process to follow – search the help center, search the community, and post in the community if you need help with the app. If the problem relates to how Lucidchart works, you can raise a support ticket.
It is a relief that the resource center contains solutions to a range of popular questions. We found it very useful, and expect you will too. The Lucid community board is a friendly place, and thanks to the wide use of the software, pretty busy.
Lucidchart: The competition
Although Lucidchart is a leader in the world of diagramming and presentation software, there are numerous great alternatives that are worth considering.
Microsoft Visio is perhaps the biggest name in this field, but has issues. Its baked-in Microsoft-ness, outdated legacy artwork, and the comparative difficulty of actually accessing the tool, make it pretty undesirable. Its collaboration tools fall short, too.
Lucidchart, by comparison, feels light and fresh, and probably easier to use.
Meanwhile, platforms like Draw.io and EdrawMind are full cloud integrations, allowing you to save and access your diagrams and charts from anywhere. They’re closer to Lucidchart than Visio, and we think that similarity proves Lucidchart’s superiority.
Lucidchart: Final verdict
All things considered, it’s easy to see why Lucidchart is up there with the best diagramming and chart management software available. Its prices are extremely reasonable, and it even comes with a full free trial.
Similarly, Lucidchart’s depth of features is almost unrivaled, and its user interface is simple and intuitive. Although its customer service does fall down slightly, everything else about this program is so good that we think you’ll love it.
SmartDraw is online and downloadable diagramming software with a range of features including flow charts, and mind mapping. This software also works with geographic maps, health diagrams, and floor plan creation.
First released in 1994, SmartDraw has long been an industry leader, and early on was a main competitor of Microsoft Visio. In recent years, its desktop app has been accompanied by an online, cloud-based web app.
We’ve assessed SmartDraw to see how its capabilities stack up against the competition, on pricing, features, ease of use, and customer support.
(Image credit: SmartDraw)
SmartDraw: Plans and pricing
SmartDraw has both a Windows desktop and an online version. When you first check out the SmartDraw site, it can be unclear what you’ll actually pay before entering your email and creating an account. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of the SmartDraw pricing so you know exactly what you’re going to get.
(Image credit: Future)
SmartDraw: Online Edition
For a single user, a cloud-based SmartDraw account is $9.95 per month. A team of at least 3 users is $8.25 per user per month. All accounts are billed annually, so you’ll actually be paying around $120 when you check out for a single account. SmartDraw does offer a seven-day free trial which is worth checking out to ensure the software works for you.
The Site option is for larger companies, and is available “for as low as $1 per user per month.” This is with annual billing, but there is no automated sign-up option here. Instead, you’ll need to contact SmartDraw’s sales department to discuss your requirements.
SmartDraw is the ability to sync with Google Drive and other Google products. What may surprise you is that the online edition has everything the PC edition does with just a handful of exceptions. This even includes architecture and genealogy tools that are hard to find on this kind of cloud-based software.
(Image credit: Future)
SmartDraw: PC Edition
The downloadable PC version of SmartDraw is a one-time $297 purchase. There are no extra fees and you’ll be able to use SmartDraw without any mandatory updates that competing products like MindManager require.
After purchasing a license, you will receive free updates and premium support for one year. Following that, the maintenance and upgrade service costs $69.95 per year. However, upgrading is not required to run the program. It is also worth mentioning that for more than five users you can get a yearly subscription for $595, which could be a good deal for businesses.
As far as use goes, the main difference you’ll notice between the PC version and the online version of SmartDraw is that there are more templates in the Windows variant. In addition, there are schedule and calendar creators, presentation capabilities, and process documentation.
Choosing the right edition will be about what you need the program for and for how long you’ll need it.
(Image credit: Future)
SmartDraw: Features
SmartDraw stands out because of the wide variety of capabilities it offers for a large number of fields. This program hasn’t narrowed itself down to a particular niche but instead works for academic, business, and personal users.
Like the competing MindManager and MindView software packages, SmartDraw can help you build organizational trees, mind maps and many different types of charts. SmartDraw’s mapping interface might not be as advanced as, say, MindView’s, but it will cost you significantly less.
SmartDraw is pretty advanced in the architectural design realm and even stacks up well against specialized software like AutoCAD. While SmartDraw doesn’t have 3D modeling capabilities, it can import CAD files and provides you with numerous ready-to-go floor plans.
Not only that, but for quick and simple designs, you can use SmartDraw to throw together ready-made building blocks like office spaces, bedrooms, and dining rooms. This makes it a great tool for interior designers or novices who want to give their architect an idea of what they are looking for.
SmartDraw sets itself apart by the huge volume of templates it has to offer. These include diagrams for the health sector like family history genograms, personal charting, electrical diagrams, body charts, and nutrition graphics. Engineers will also get a lot to work with such as vehicle designs, electrical wiring diagrams, and software project plans. If you run an interdisciplinary team, this software could be for you.
(Image credit: Future)
SmartDraw: Ease of use
To get started with SmartDraw, you can either download the Windows desktop version by entering your email or create an account for SmartDraw online. Both will prompt you to purchase during your seven-day free trial.
Once you are signed up, you can begin designing diagrams and checking out the SmartDraw templates. When you first open SmartDraw, you’ll see a long list of them on the left side of the page. Some of these are populated with sample information, but others are mostly empty, intended for more radical revision.
The way the toolbox on the left-hand of the screen appears will be different based on what you are designing. For example, in an architecture template, you’ll see rooms and walls, whereas, in a genogram, it’ll show individual family members. The toolbar at the top of the screen stays pretty much the same and is fairly basic compared to programs that are more task or industry-specific like Mindmanager or AutoCAD.
SmartDraw: Customer support
Getting started using SmartDraw is straightforward. The interface provides some useful tips on first launch, and a number of learning resources can be found on the website. These cover templates, diagrams, and general resource. There are also developer resources, including a guide to the SmartDraw API.
For assistance using SmartDraw, you can open the Support menu and click the Help button or Contact Support. This launches the SmartDraw Knowledge Base, where you will also find a contact form to open a support ticket. Alternatively, you can call the SmartDraw technical support team over the phone during standard working hours.
SmartDraw: The competition
Diagramming, mind mapping, and flowchart tools are most web-based these days, with cloud storage. Key competitors to SmartDraw include Lucidchart, Cacoo, and Creately. Each of these has a similar feature set, price point, and are easy to use.
For most purposes, there is little between them.
The offline version of SmartDraw stacks up favorably against other downloadable software such as Microsoft Visio. Its accessibility, low price-point, and broad feature set makes it a superior option. However, SmartDraw’s template graphics are quite close in style to those in Microsoft Visio, more than any other tool we’ve seen.
SmartDraw: Final verdict
If you are looking for diagramming software that can do it all, SmartDraw is the tool for you. For advanced industry-specific capabilities, you may want to explore other options, but in all likelihood, SmartDraw will be the right way to produce any type of diagram or chart you need without blowing your budget.
The free trial is really useful, but in most cases you won’t need the desktop tool. SmartDraw’s modern cloud-based web-app offers more flexibility and won’t take up space on your SSD.
With it, you can create flowcharts, organizational charts, and even manage your workforce. Originally published by Mindjet in 1998, the company has been acquired by the former Corel Corporation, now known as Alludo. As such, MindManager is part of a stable of well-known applications and utilities.
In this review, we’ll discuss MindManager’s main features and the pros and cons associated with the platform. You’ll quickly see why we consider this one of the most advanced and user-friendly mind-mapping tools on the market today.
(Image credit: MindManager)
MindManager: Plans and pricing
If you want to download MindManager to see if its right for you without splashing out, you can take a look at the web version. You can also click the Try it free link to get a 30-day trial for Windows or macOS.
Three plans are available: Essentials, Professional, and Enterprise.
Essentials is the web version of MindManager, for individual use, and costs $99 a year.
The Professional plan is for individuals and small teams, and is $179.00 a year. This includes a full suite of features, collaboration tools, and regular updates. You can use this with up to 5 users.
For larger teams, the Enterprise option is $179 per user per year, where the software is used by 5 or more personnel. Quotes and pricing options are available for this tier, which offers various extended features, such as SSO, dedicated support, and training and consultation services.
Note that there is also a one-time purchase option for MindManager. This covers licenses for Windows and macOS, and costs $369.
(Image credit: Future)
MindManager: Features
MindManager is a popular brainstorming and organizational tool and is well-recognized for its feature density. This software particularly stands out for its mind mapping toolkit and selection of add-on options. One of the great things about MindManager is the extent to which you can visually customize any charts you use it to create.
As mapping is MindManager’s foremost feature, its capabilities in this area are impressive. Maps can be connected to each other and exported to Word or similar software. You can create Gantt charts, add indexes, schedules, and even display your charts and maps in a presentation mode.
For project management planning and business start-up, MindManager has development, risk management, and training templates. You can also sync your MindManager business data with other productivity platforms such as Outlook and Slack. The big benefit here is that MindManager will track your team’s progress in real-time, and notify you if things are off-track or if any information is missing.
If starting from scratch seems intimidating, MindManager’s wealth of templates will help you get started. These include example data that you can leave in place – useful if you are just getting to grips with the tool – or create the mind map as a bare-bones project to complete as you go.
When using MindManager as a team, individuals can drop links to detailed notes, references, and URLs in the same project. The MindManager system also features app-integration with Microsoft Sharepoint, and Jira. It has Microsoft Team integration, too.
(Image credit: Future)
MindManager: Ease of use
Upon opening the software, you’ll see that MindManager resembles a Microsoft product. This is not by accident. MindManager’s interface was designed to make those who are already comfortable with the office suite feel at home.
In addition to some very familiar tabs like, “Insert” or “View”, you’ll see buttons that change depending on what you’re working on such as the “Task” project management tab.
The main ribbon-like toolbar is nice and compact, but most of the interaction with your projects will take place within the main design space. This is a great interface, one that makes it easy to add topics and sub-topics to your mind map. Useful context menus and formatting tools help you to expand your mind maps and convey concepts in a myriad of stylish ways.
(Image credit: Future)
MindManager: Customer support
In the MindManager program, you can click on the help button to find FAQs, quick tips, and keyboard shortcuts. If you’re in need of more hands-on help, you can fill out a ticket, send an online chat message, or contact one of MindManager’s many international offices by phone or email.
In most cases, this probably won’t be required. The tool is exceptionally easy to use, and offers quick pop-up tips when you access a new feature or template. Additionally, the example data that can be optionally opened in new templates also includes information on how to use the chosen mind map.
MindManager: The competition
For several years, the main competitor to MindManager was MindView. Both have very similar user-interfaces, capabilities, and price-points. MindManager’s organizational charts are slightly more advanced and it has several more diagrams and map templates that you won’t find on MindView.
Having used them both relatively recently, I found MindManager to be slightly superior to MindView. But the competition is far greater than a simple battle between these two apps. Scapple, Mindomo, LucidChart, and many others are vying for attention, all boasting spacious design areas, slick shortcuts, and stylist layout and formatting options.
MindView doesn’t stand out against many alternatives, but MindManager does.
MindManager: Final verdict
Whether you’re a business manager looking to organize a team or an academic needing to visualize your ideas, MindManager is a fantastic program without bloatware and with all the features you could ask for from a diagram and mind-mapping tool.
For businesses, contacting MindManager to discuss adding its Enterprise version to your tech stack could be one of the best things you do for your company.
Teletrac Navman, a global leader in fleet management solutions, was born from the merger of Teletrac Inc and Navman Wireless. This strategic alliance brought together the expertise of both companies to deliver Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) based fleet tracking and telematics solutions. By harnessing the power of advanced technology and data analytics, Teletrac Navman provides businesses with real-time insights into their fleet operations, empowering them to optimize costs, enhance productivity, and improve overall efficiency.
With headquarters in Glenview, Illinois, Teletrac Navman boasts a global presence, with offices strategically located in the US, UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Mexico. This extensive network enables the company to cater to the diverse needs of its vast clientele, which spans various industries and encompasses over 40,000 customers and more than 500,000 vehicles across six continents. Teletrac Navman's impressive client roster includes renowned brands such as Range Rover, the American Red Cross, and Ryder, a testament to the company's unwavering commitment to delivering innovative and reliable fleet management solutions.
Teletrac Navman's comprehensive suite of fleet management solutions leverages cutting-edge telematics technology to provide businesses with real-time visibility into their fleet operations. This includes GPS fleet tracking, vehicle diagnostics, driver behavior monitoring, and fuel management, among other features. By providing actionable insights into these critical areas, Teletrac Navman enables businesses to make informed decisions that drive efficiency, safety, and profitability.
Furthermore, Teletrac Navman's solutions are designed to be scalable and customizable, allowing businesses to tailor them to their specific needs and requirements. Whether it's a small business with a handful of vehicles or a large enterprise with a fleet of hundreds, Teletrac Navman has the expertise and technology to deliver a solution that meets their unique challenges.
In addition to its core fleet management solutions, Teletrac Navman also offers a range of value-added services, such as compliance management, asset tracking, and field service management. These services help businesses streamline their operations, improve customer service, and stay ahead of the competition.
Overall, Teletrac Navman is a trusted partner for businesses looking to optimize their fleet operations and achieve sustainable growth. With its innovative technology, global reach, and customer-centric approach, Teletrac Navman is well-positioned to continue leading the fleet management industry into the future.
(Image credit: TeletracNavman)
Teletrac Navman: Pricing
Teletrac Navman, like many other fleet management companies, does not provide pricing information online. Instead, potential customers must contact them directly for pricing details due to varying costs depending on the solution, contract length, and specific business needs. Contact can be made through a portal after answering questions and providing a business email, though other options, such as a direct phone number or email would be a welcome addition.
It is anticipated that Teletrac Navman will require a three-year minimum contract, which aligns with the industry standard. However, some fleet management companies offer monthly plans without a minimum contract term, providing greater flexibility for fleet companies.
Teletrac Navman appears to require a minimum of three vehicles for its services, based on online reviews. While the company does not currently list its plan tiers, it previously offered three subscription levels: Essential (basic features for smaller fleets), Professional (comprehensive fleet management solution), and Enterprise (customized solution for fleets of 1,000+ vehicles).
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Teletrac Navman 1 (Image credit: TeletracNavman)
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Teletrac Navman 2 (Image credit: TeletracNavman)
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Teletrac Navman 3 (Image credit: TeletracNavman)
Teletrac Navman: Features
Teletrac Navman's Director software offers a comprehensive and customizable cloud-based platform designed to optimize fleet management, enhance driver safety, and streamline vehicle maintenance.
Fleet Tracking and Management:
The software's fleet tracking capabilities provide real-time visibility into asset location, activity, and driver behavior, enabling fleet managers to make informed decisions and respond promptly to emerging situations. Utilizing GPS technology and integrated mapping tools, Director allows for efficient route planning, dispatching, and resource allocation. Additionally, the software's geofencing feature creates virtual boundaries, triggering alerts when vehicles enter or exit designated areas, thereby enhancing security and operational control.
Driver Safety and Compliance:
Director prioritizes driver safety by offering tools to monitor and analyze driving patterns. The software generates detailed reports based on data from on-board sensors and dashcam footage, identifying unsafe behaviors such as speeding, harsh braking, and fatigue. These insights enable targeted coaching and training programs to improve driver performance and reduce the risk of accidents. Furthermore, Director simplifies compliance with regulations by automating data collection and storage, streamlining workflows, and providing easy access to essential compliance information.
Vehicle Maintenance and Fuel Management:
The software's maintenance and fuel module leverages real-time engine diagnostics and other telematics data to proactively monitor vehicle health and optimize fuel consumption. By identifying potential issues early on, Director enables timely preventive maintenance, minimizing downtime and extending vehicle lifespan. Additionally, the software's fuel management tools track fuel usage, identify inefficiencies, and promote fuel-saving practices, leading to cost savings and environmental benefits.
(Image credit: TeletracNavman)
Communication and Collaboration:
Director facilitates seamless communication and collaboration between fleet managers, drivers, and other stakeholders. The software's two-way messaging feature allows for real-time updates and instructions, while instant alerts notify users of critical events, such as accidents, breakdowns, or unauthorized vehicle use.
Reporting and Analytics:
The software's customizable reporting and dashboard provide in-depth insights into fleet performance, driver behavior, and operational efficiency. These data-driven insights empower fleet managers to identify trends, measure key performance indicators, and make informed decisions to optimize operations, reduce costs, and improve overall fleet performance.
Cloud-Based Solution and Integration:
As a cloud-based solution, Director offers flexibility, scalability, and accessibility, allowing users to manage their fleet from anywhere with an internet connection. The software also integrates seamlessly with other business systems and tools, such as Google Maps, enhancing functionality and streamlining workflows.
(Image credit: TeletracNavman)
Teletrac Navman: Support
Teletrac Navman provides its customers with a dedicated customer support team ready to respond to any inquiries that may arise. Customers can reach out for direct assistance through phone or via their online contact portal. While the company does not specify its average response times, they strive to provide timely and helpful support to all customers. We are also encouraged to see that this help is available on a 24/7 basis.
Beyond direct assistance, Teletrac Navman offers customers an array of online training resources. These include webinars, instructional videos, detailed guides, and other helpful materials. This allows customers to learn at their own pace and find answers to common questions independently.
Teletrac Navman actively uses social media platforms like Facebook, X, and YouTube to connect with and provide ongoing support to their customers. These platforms are regularly updated with valuable content, including:
Relevant Information: This may include news and updates about the company, its products, and the industry.
Helpful Tips: Tips and tricks for using Teletrac Navman's products and services effectively, as well as general advice for fleet management and vehicle tracking.
Company Announcements: Important announcements about new product launches, updates to existing products, company events, and other relevant news.
Other Engaging Content: This includes videos, blog posts, infographics, and other content that educates and entertains customers while promoting the brand.
By maintaining an active presence on social media, Teletrac Navman can foster a sense of community among its customers and provide them with easily accessible support and information. It also allows the company to quickly and effectively share important news and announcements, and to gather feedback from customers.
(Image credit: TeletracNavman)
Teletrac Navman: Final verdict
Teletrac Navman is a well-established company with a long history in the fleet management industry. They provide a wide array of services designed to cater to the diverse needs of fleets of all sizes. Their offerings likely include GPS tracking, vehicle diagnostics, driver behavior monitoring, and fuel management solutions. These tools can help businesses optimize their fleet operations, improve safety, and reduce costs.
Despite their experience and comprehensive suite of services, Teletrac Navman's reputation has been tarnished by recent developments. They have lost their accreditation from the Better Business Bureau and currently hold a B- rating due to a number of unresolved complaints. This indicates that some customers have had negative experiences with the company and have not received satisfactory resolutions to their issues.
Additionally, online feedback for Teletrac Navman is also negative, with a one-star rating based on the sole review available at the BBB. This suggests that customer satisfaction is low at least among some, and that potential clients should exercise caution when considering their services.
Given these concerns, it is highly advisable to thoroughly evaluate Teletrac Navman before committing to a long-term contract. Take advantage of their free demo to test their platform and assess its suitability for your specific requirements. Carefully review their terms and conditions to ensure that you understand the contractual obligations and avoid any surprises down the line.
Compare their offerings with those of other fleet management providers to determine if they offer the best value for your investment. Consider reaching out to current or former customers to get their firsthand experiences and insights. By taking these precautions, you can make an informed decision and choose the fleet management solution that best aligns with your business needs and expectations.
Trade Interceptor, one of the world’s best forex trading apps, was taken over by ThinkMarkets and rebranded as ThinkTrader in 2017. In our ThinkTrader review, we’ve looked closely at the ThinkTrader mobile interface, its main features, and why it’s one of the leading mobile trading apps.
Note that the app is available via both the Trade Interceptor and ThinkTrader websites, as well as in the Apple and Google Play stores under the ThinkTrader name.
Trade Interceptor was rebranded as ThinkTrader in 2017 (Image credit: Thinktrader)
ThinkTrader: What does it offer?
Since ThinkTrader took over Trade Interceptor, it has added a range of additional features, with the goal of becoming the leading mobile trading platform. It’s available on both Android and iOS devices, and in general, is suitable for everyone from complete beginners to seasoned traders.
In addition, ThinkTrader offers trading in a range of areas, including forex, precious metals, indices, cryptocurrency, shares, commodities, and CFDs. Clients from over 180 countries are accepted (notable exceptions are the USA, Japan, and Iran), and the apps are available in all regions except the USA and Japan.
ThinkTrader revamped the Trade Interceptor app with the express aim of becoming the leading mobile trading platform (Image credit: ThinkTrader)
ThinkTrader: Opening an account
Opening a new ThinkTrader account is straightforward and shouldn’t take more than five to ten minutes. You will have to provide a significant amount of personal information, including your name, date of birth, nationality, and address. Following this, you will be asked to work through a short questionnaire about your trading knowledge and experience.
On top of this, you will need to select what trading platform, currency, and leverage you want to use. Available platforms include Meta Trader 4 and 5, as well as the native ThinkInvest and ThinkTrader interfaces. Choose from eight base currency options and leverage up to 500:1.
Finally, account verification is usually required in accordance with your country’s regulations. We created an Australian account and were required to upload photo ID and proof of address. You may also have to pass a short knowledge-based test before your account is approved.
Opening a ThinkTrader account is fast, but you will have to provide verification documents (Image credit: ThinkTrader)
ThinkTrader: Account Types
There are six different ThinkTrader account types. For starters, a neat Demo account is available for you to test trading strategies and become familiar with the platform before risking real money. Standard and ThinkZero accounts are both great for getting started and come with slightly different fee structures and forex spreads.
In addition, Islamic clients can apply for an Islamic account that complies with Sharia law. Two or more individuals can apply for a Joint account if they want to, and experienced traders can take advantage of exclusive benefits and advanced leverage by requesting a ThinkMarkets Pro account.
There are six different account options (Image credit: ThinkTrader)
ThinkTrader: Features
As one of the world’s best mobile trading apps, ThinkTrader is naturally backed by an impressive range of advanced features. For starters, the entire trading experience is streamlined and beginner friendly. But, this ease of use doesn’t come at the cost of advanced capabilities.
For example, users will be able to access a suite of technical analysis tools. Live charts are available for most forex pairs, precious metals, popular cryptocurrencies, and over 1000 stocks, among others. You can select from ten chart types, including bar, broken line, and Japanese candlestick. All charts can be zoomed, scrolled, and overlaid with any of 100 technical indicators and/or 40 analytical objects.
On top of this, the ThinkTrader app supports cloud-based alerts, which means you will receive notifications even when it isn’t running. In-app deposits and withdrawals are also available once your account is approved, and you can keep up to date with the latest financial news through the built-in news portal.
Another noteworthy tool is the one-click order option. This enables you to access near-instant order processing rather than wasting time confirming orders. Multiple positions can also be closed with one click. And finally, the Trend-Risk Scanner is a powerful native tool that provides information about recommended trades.
The ThinkTrader mobile app is neat and boasts a great range of advanced features (Image credit: ThinkTrader)
ThinkTrader: Support
ThinkTrader’s support team is knowledgeable, fast, and efficient. 24/5 live chat and email support are available worldwide, while phone support is available in selected countries (the UK and Australia, among others). We tested the live chat briefly and were connected with an agent almost immediately. They answered our questions fast and accurately, and you can’t ask for much more than that. An impressive range of self-help articles and other resources is also available.
ThinkTrader live chat support is fast and effective (Image credit: ThinkTrader)
ThinkTrader: Final verdict
ThinkTrader (formerly known as Trade Interceptor) is up there with the best mobile trading apps, and for good reason. It’s a professionally designed platform that’s accessible across most of the world, and it provides a great trading experience.
The native ThinkTrader mobile app is backed by advanced features and makes trading on the go easier than ever. On top of this, the charting tools that are built into the app are truly impressive, with candlestick support and great customizability.
Overall, ThinkTrader is a viable option for both beginners and advanced traders. And on top of everything else, it’s worth noting that the native desktop interface is also very powerful.
ThinkTrader: The competition
Mobile trading apps are becoming increasingly popular, and ThinkTrader no longer stands out as a clear industry leader. One popular alternative is Pocket Forex, which supports 24/7 trading on a wide range of markets with 50–1000 times leverage. Another major competitor is Oanda, which has the advantage of being available to US and Japanese clients.
The best remote desktop software needs to be easy to use yet offer a sufficiently deep feature set to support all of your business’s IT needs. RemoteUtilities for Windows is an impressively affordable remote computer access tool that provides a wide range of access options. While it’s largely limited to operating on Windows computers, RemoteUtilities makes tasks like remote file transfer, audio sharing, and webcam access easy.
So, is this the right remote desktop connection manager for your business? In our RemoteUtilities for Windows review, we will highlight everything you need to know.
Remote Utilities for Windows: Plans and pricing
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Remote Utilities for Windows pricing is based on the number of licenses you need for your IT team and the quantity of remote computers you plan to connect. IT managers can share a technician license, but you can only have concurrent sessions up to the number of purchased licenses.
Technician licenses are available for free and allow you to have up to 10 remote computers in your address book. If you need to access more remote desktops, there are several options available. You can access up to 20 computers with a $99 license, 50 computers with a $249 license, and an unlimited number of computers with a $499 license. Remote Utilities also offers a site-wide plan that costs $12,000, which includes an unlimited number of technician licenses.
Alternatively, you can pay $29 per remote host to allow an unlimited number of technicians to access a limited number of remote computers concurrently (you must purchase a minimum of 10 remote hosts).
It's important to note that these prices are one-time fees, not subscriptions. You get access to any major upgrades released within one year of purchase. However, after that, you’ll need to pay to upgrade the software.
Remote Utilities for Windows: Features and utilities
RemoteUtilities for Windows includes a number of features that are relatively simple but extremely helpful. Beyond remote desktop functionality on Windows 10 and older versions of Windows, you can drag and drop files between connected computers and make use of a shared clipboard. On top of that, you to take control of the webcam, share audio across devices, and record high-definition video of remote sessions.
An open remote view only session. (Image credit: RemoteUtilities)
Another thing that many business users will appreciate is that Remote Utilities enables you to integrate with your own server. IT managers can thus set up user-based access roles, sync host computer addresses for all technicians, and add additional layers of security.
It’s worth noting that while Remote Utilities primarily works for Windows, there’s also a controller app available for iOS and Android devices. You still can’t connect to one of these devices as a host, though. Remote Utilities is also developing clients for Mac and Linux computers, but they’re in beta at the time of writing.
Remote Utilities for Windows: Setup
Unfortunately, getting started with Remote Utilities is pretty cumbersome. Downloading and installing the technician and endpoint versions of the software onto the appropriate computers is fast. But, once that’s done, you need to connect to each remote computer one at a time and verify the connection. This takes around 5 minutes per endpoint computer, and potentially longer if you’re routing connections through an in-house secure server rather than over the internet.
Dialog box to add a new host computer to your address book. (Image credit: RemoteUtilities)
Remote Utilities for Windows: Interface and performance
The Remote Utilities user interface is fairly user-friendly. It resembles Windows File Explorer, except that instead of folders, the software displays remote computers in your address book. It’s easy to start up a connection just by double-clicking on a remote computer, and you don’t necessarily have to take full control of the host when starting a session. Instead, you can enter view-only, file transfer, or screen recorder modes, among other options.
The Remote Utilities dashboard. (Image credit: RemoteUtilities)
Performance can vary somewhat widely since your connection speed will depend on the internet connections of both the controller and host computers. That said, we tested a full control session between two computers running Windows 10 on a 26 Mbps connection and there was no noticeable lag.
We also tested out the file transfer performance. Dragging and dropping a 100MB file from the host to the control computer took about four minutes with a 3Mbps upload connection. That’s about what we’d expect based on the connection speed.
Remote Utilities for Windows: Security
Remote Utilities does a nice job at managing security. Technicians’ address books can be encrypted, and the platform supports two-factor authentication when logging in to the controller software. When you connect to a host computer, Remote Utilities automatically tests its identity to ensure the IP address hasn’t been commandeered.
Remote Utilities allows users to encrypt their address book of connected hosts. (Image credit: RemoteUtilities)
Another plus for security is that Remote Utilities for Windows doesn’t support web-based user accounts or password management. Although that means you can’t access cloud accounts from the software, it does ensure Remote Utilities doesn’t contain the necessary information to compromise those accounts.
Remote Utilities for Windows: Support
Customer support at Remote Utilities is good but not instantaneous. You can only contact the company by email, and your estimated response time depends on your technician license level. Site-wide license holders can expect a response within two hours, while responses for other license holders can take up to eight hours. Remote Utilities’ support team only works Monday to Friday, US Eastern time.
Thankfully, you can get answers to most questions through the company’s online documentation. Remote Utilities also runs a community forum, where support team members frequently respond to questions.
Remote Utilities for Windows: Pros and cons
Remote Utilities for Windows is a powerful remote desktop software designed for comprehensive access and control over remote PCs from anywhere. It is ideal for IT professionals, system administrators, and support teams, enabling seamless remote support, network management, and screen sharing. The software operates under a server-agent model, where the agent runs on remote computers, and the administrator or support personnel controls the server.
Remote Utilities offers many features, including complete control and viewing modes, file transfer, remote task manager, terminal, inventory manager, and more. It supports over 15 connection modes, making it suitable for various remote access needs.
One of the standout features is its flexibility in connection options. It supports direct connections via IP address, LAN, and an Internet ID feature, which allows connection over the Internet, bypassing firewalls and NAT devices. This makes it versatile for accessing machines across different environments and setups.
Security is a top priority for Remote Utilities, as it employs robust encryption standards, including AES-256-bit encryption for data transfer. The software also supports two-factor authentication and provides a comprehensive set of permissions for each user, enhancing the security of remote access to systems.
Remote Utilities for Windows offers a flexible licensing model that caters to small—and large-scale operations. It provides a free version for up to 10 remote PCs, which is beneficial for small businesses or personal use. The commercial licenses are competitively priced and available as a one-time purchase, including minor updates without recurring subscription fees.
Remote Utilities has many features and capabilities which may overwhelm new users. The initial setup and configuration could be challenging for individuals with less technical knowledge or without extensive IT backgrounds.
Although remote utilities generally provide a smooth remote access experience, their performance may be suboptimal compared to low bandwidth connections. Users may experience lag or slower response times, impacting efficiency in real-time support scenarios.
While Remote Utilities offers a Viewer app for macOS and Linux, its full range of features and functionalities is primarily optimized for Windows. This may limit its usefulness in mixed OS environments.
Some users have mentioned that while the support team is helpful, the available resources, such as tutorials and documentation, could be more comprehensive. Navigating through advanced features or troubleshooting issues might require contacting support directly, which can be time-consuming.
Remote Utilities for Windows: Final verdict
Remote Utilities for Windows is an affordable remote desktop connection manager for Windows computers. The licenses are available for a one-time cost, which can save businesses a significant amount of money. This software has some handy features to help IT teams manage helpdesk services. While it would be better if this platform supported Mac and Linux computers, it's still a good option if your company primarily uses Windows devices.
Remote Utilities for Windows is a robust solution for comprehensive remote access and management tools. Its rich feature set, flexibility, and strong security posture, it caterll to IT professionals and businesses looking to streamline their remote support and network management tasks.
However, potential users must consider its steeper learning curve and platform-specific focus. For organizations with diverse or non-Windows environments, compatibility and user experience are crucial factors. Evaluating Remote Utilities through its free version can provide valuable insights into whether it aligns with an organization's specific remote access needs and technical capabilities. In summary, Remote Utilities for Windows is a contender worth considering in remote desktop solutions, especially for those heavily reliant on Windows ecosystems.
Remote Utilities for Windows: The competition
Arguably, the biggest downside to remote utilities is that they only enable you to connect to Windows computers. If you need a remote desktop on a Mac computer, it's worth looking into GoToMyPC or TeamViewer. Both platforms offer much of the same functionality as Remote Utilities, including drag-and-drop file transfer, screen recording, and audio sharing.
But they can also be much more expensive. GoToMyPC charges $33 to $35 per technician license per month for an unlimited number of endpoint computers. Meanwhile, TeamViewer charges $49 monthly for one user and one concurrent session or $199 for unlimited users and three concurrent sessions.
In today's digital age, remote desktop solutions have become a cornerstone of business operations, enabling employees to access their work environment anywhere in the world. This technology supports the growing trend of remote work and ensures that organizations can maintain their productivity levels, irrespective of their physical location. But with many options available, how do you choose the right one for your needs? Here are some key aspects to consider when searching for a remote desktop solution.
Seamless Connectivity and Accessibility—The foremost attribute of an efficient remote desktop solution is its ability to provide smooth, easy-to-establish connections. It should empower users to access their desktops and applications with minimal effort and without the need for extensive technical knowledge. The solution must be compatible across various devices and operating systems to ensure all team members can stay connected regardless of their preferred gadgets.
Security Features - With cyber threats at an all-time high, security has never been more critical. A suitable remote desktop tool should offer robust security measures, including end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular security updates to protect against vulnerabilities. The ability to set granular access controls and monitor user activity can further enhance the security of sensitive organizational data.
Performance and Reliability - The effectiveness of a remote desktop solution also hinges on its performance. It should provide a smooth, lag-free experience, closely mimicking the feel of working directly on the host computer. High reliability, with minimal downtime and quick recovery options, ensures that work can proceed uninterrupted, thus maintaining high productivity levels.
Support and Scalability - As businesses grow, their needs evolve. A scalable remote desktop solution, allowing for easy addition of new users and resources, can be a valuable asset. Equally important is responsive customer support. A provider that offers prompt, efficient help when issues arise can save precious time and resources.
Cost-Effectiveness - While it's crucial to not tortoise on essential features, the cost is a significant factor for most organizations. The ideal solution would offer a transparent pricing model that scales with your needs, ensuring you only pay for what you use. Evaluate not just the initial costs, but also long-term expenses, including updates and support.
User Experience—Last but not least, the user experience cannot be overlooked. A user-friendly interface, minimal latency, and the ability to personalize settings can make a big difference in daily operations. The solution must have intuitive controls that don't steepsteeplearning curve for new users.
Choosing the right remote desktop solution involves carefully balancing performance, security, ease of use, and cost. As businesses continue to evolve, the ability to work remotely efficiently will become even more critical. Evaluating your options based on these criteria can go a long way in ensuring that your choice not only meets your current needs but is also a viable long-term solution as your organization grows. In this selection process, insights from current users and expert reviews can also provide valuable perspectives, helping to narrow down the choices to the solution best suited to your unique requirements.
GPSWOX, a leading global fleet management company established in 2012 and headquartered in London, UK, provides comprehensive GPS fleet tracking and fleet management solutions for over 3500 businesses and individual consumers spanning 123 countries.
Their advanced vehicle tracking software, compatible with a wide range of GPS trackers, delivers precise real-time vehicle location monitoring, efficient fleet dispatch, comprehensive fleet monitoring, and enhanced driver and vehicle safety features. These capabilities empower businesses to optimize their operational efficiency and significantly reduce the overall costs associated with managing a commercial fleet.
GPSWOX goes beyond its core fleet management solutions by offering a white-label, cloud-based vehicle tracking software platform. This platform is designed to empower entrepreneurs and businesses to launch and manage their own independent vehicle tracking ventures. The cloud-based nature of the platform and its white-label capabilities mean that these businesses can operate virtually anywhere in the world without the need for extensive infrastructure or technical expertise. By leveraging GPSWOX's technology and support, they can focus on building their customer base and providing localized vehicle tracking services.
(Image credit: GPSWOX)
GPSWOX: Pricing
GPSWOX operates on a software-as-a-service (SaaS) model, providing its GPS tracking and fleet management software to businesses without requiring them to purchase proprietary hardware. This allows for flexibility and compatibility with a wide range of GPS devices already on the market.
The pricing structure for GPSWOX is modular, allowing businesses to choose the specific add-ons and features that align with their needs. This approach avoids unnecessary costs for features that may not be relevant to a particular business. Some potential add-ons could include real-time tracking, geofencing, driver behavior monitoring, fuel consumption tracking, and maintenance scheduling.
GPSWOX, a sophisticated GPS tracking and fleet management software hosted on secure GPSWOX servers, offers potential users the opportunity to explore its comprehensive features through a 30-day free trial period. This trial allows businesses and individuals to assess the software's suitability for their needs without any financial commitment. Additionally, GPSWOX provides a 100% money-back guarantee, ensuring customer satisfaction and confidence in their purchase.
The pricing structure for GPSWOX is designed to accommodate varying requirements and scales of operation. The basic package starts at $99 per month, offering unlimited users and the ability to track up to 100 assets. This option is ideal for small to medium-sized businesses with a limited number of vehicles or equipment to monitor. For larger enterprises with more extensive fleets, the $199 per month package allows for tracking up to 500 objects, while the $290 per month package extends the tracking capacity to 1,000 objects.
In addition to the monthly subscription plans, GPSWOX may also offer a lifetime subscription package for a one-time discounted payment of $4,990. This option could provide significant long-term cost savings for businesses with ongoing GPS tracking needs. The lifetime subscription eliminates the need for recurring monthly payments and ensures continuous access to the software and its updates.
Overall, GPSWOX presents a compelling solution for businesses and individuals seeking reliable and scalable GPS tracking and fleet management capabilities. With its flexible pricing options, free trial, money-back guarantee, and potential lifetime subscription, GPSWOX caters to a wide range of users and budgets.
There are several plans available for small businesses and individuals. The Lite plan allows for single object tracking at $2.99 per month, billed annually. The Basic plan offers tracking for up to 5 objects at $9.97 per month, also billed annually. For those needing to track up to 50 objects, the Pro plan is available for $49 per month, with the option for monthly billing. Lastly, the White Label plan provides unlimited object tracking for $99 per month, billed monthly.
GPSWOX used to offer monthly subscriptions for their Android and iOS fleet tracking apps at $49 and $84 per month, respectively. They no longer offer these monthly subscriptions and have switched to lifetime subscription plans for their Mobile Phone Tracker App and GPSWOX Mobile Client App. Additionally, GPSWOX charges extra fees for mobile vehicle tracking, a practice that sets them apart from their competitors.
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GPSWOX: Features
GPSWOX is a comprehensive and cost-effective fleet management solution designed to cater to the needs of organizations across various sizes and industries. Its primary goal is to assist these organizations in optimizing fuel consumption, safeguarding their valuable assets, and effectively managing their workforce.
The user-friendly software provided by GPSWOX empowers users to access detailed and precise information with minimal effort. This information can include real-time vehicle location, driver behavior, fuel consumption, and maintenance alerts. By providing this data in an easily digestible format, GPSWOX enables organizations to make informed decisions that can lead to significant cost savings and improved operational efficiency.
One of the key strengths of GPSWOX is its versatility. The solution is not only suitable for businesses with large fleets but also for smaller fleets and even individuals and families. This adaptability is further enhanced by the company's flexible and transparent pricing structure, which includes no contract obligations and offers the same features across all pricing tiers. For those seeking additional customization, optional add-ons are also available.
In summary, GPSWOX is a powerful and adaptable fleet management solution that provides organizations with the tools and insights they need to optimize their operations and reduce costs. Its user-friendly software, comprehensive feature set, and flexible pricing make it an attractive option for businesses of all sizes and industries.
Some of the key features of GPSWOX’s solution are:
Real-time tracking: GPSWOX provides real-time location tracking for a wide range of assets, including vehicles, mobile devices, individuals, and bicycles. This enables users to monitor the current location and movements of their valuable assets at any given time.
For fleet management, GPSWOX offers detailed insights into fleet activity, including vehicle speed, fuel consumption, precise address location, and a comprehensive journey history. This information empowers fleet managers to optimize routes, monitor driver behavior, and improve overall fleet efficiency.
To visualize and analyze location data, GPSWOX provides three map views: Google Maps, Satellite view, and OpenStreetMaps (OSM). These different map views cater to various user preferences and offer different levels of detail, allowing users to choose the most suitable view for their needs.
Notifications and alerts: GPSWOX provides instant alerts and notifications in response to events such as vehicle theft, speeding, unauthorized stops, and a vehicle entering or leaving a geo-zone.
Reports: GPSWOX offers a variety of downloadable reports based on date and GPS tracker name. These reports include information on driving time, rest stops, mileage, fuel usage, and more. Additionally, users can download comprehensive and group reports.
Fuel savings: Real-time fuel usage data provided by GPSWOX allows businesses to monitor and control fuel costs. By receiving alerts and reports on aggressive driving behaviors such as rapid acceleration, speeding, and excessive braking, businesses can reduce fuel consumption by 5% to 15%. Additionally, fuel monitoring helps prevent driver fraud and allows for convenient fuel level checks.
Geofencing: Geofencing technology provides businesses with a powerful tool for monitoring and managing the location of their assets. By establishing virtual boundaries, or "geofences," around specific areas, businesses can receive real-time alerts whenever a vehicle or other asset enters or exits the designated zone. This capability allows administrators to maintain heightened awareness of asset movements, enabling prompt responses to unauthorized or unexpected activity.
For example, a construction company could create a geofence around a job site to ensure that equipment remains within the designated area. If a piece of machinery were to be moved outside the geofence, perhaps indicating theft or unauthorized use, the system would immediately generate an alert, allowing the company to take swift action to recover the asset. Similarly, a logistics company could use geofencing to track the movement of its delivery vehicles, ensuring that they adhere to planned routes and schedules.
In addition to enhancing security and operational efficiency, geofencing can also be leveraged to improve customer service. For instance, a retailer could use geofencing to send targeted promotions to customers' smartphones as they enter a specific store or shopping center. By delivering relevant and timely offers, businesses can enhance the customer experience and drive sales.
GPSWOX has received numerous awards, including the Expert's Choice by FinancesOnline Award, the Supreme Software Award, and the Great User Experience Certificate, for providing its users with a superb experience.
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GPSWOX: Support
GPSWOX provides technical support 24/7 via email. General inquiries can be made by email or by phone from 9am to 9pm (GMT+2). Free calls can also be booked through a contact form, with responses expected within 24 hours. The GPSWOX sales team can be contacted by email and is available 7 days a week from 9am to 9pm (GMT+2).
Customers can also find support on the GPSWOX website, where they can access FAQs, user guides, and videos. Although GPSWOX has a YouTube channel with many videos, it is not updated frequently.
GPSWOX: Final verdict
GPSWOX, a user-friendly cloud-based fleet management solution, is globally accessible and features a simple pricing structure that supports businesses that operate internationally. The platform offers convenient and comprehensive fleet management capabilities and is compatible with most existing telematics systems, eliminating the need for additional hardware purchases.
