danemayer
Well-known member
I thought I'd share a tip on managing information while on the road. I use the Evernote program to store notes and documents. It's pretty easy to use, the basic version is free, it runs on every type of computer and smartphone, and best of all, no matter which of your devices you're using, all the notes and documents are available, as it syncs automatically. If your devices aren't working for some reason, you can go to a library or internet cafe and access your information on the web from any internet-connected computer.
I use it to keep a copy of user and maintenance manuals for the RV. I've downloaded the relevant files from the Tools section of this website, and also from vendor websites. I download the files, usually PDF documents, to a folder on my computer and have set up Evernote to automatically import files from that folder. Evernote then synchronizes those files across all my devices, including my iPhone. The synchronized files are then stored locally on each device. So even if I'm cut off from the internet, I can read the manuals from my computer or my iPhone.
When talking to servicers, or vendors, I create a new note to record the phone #s, names, and commitments. Again, the notes automatically sync to all devices. I got a follow up call from Heartland about something I ordered a few weeks ago. I was away from the RV but pulled up the notes on my iPhone to refresh my memory, and then added an update reflecting what was discussed on that call.
I also manage bills with Evernote. I keep a list of which regular bills come due on which dates, have links to their websites to check the amount due, and record the amount and date paid.
The list of things I use Evernote for has gotten pretty long, but I thought I'd mention some key things that might be of particular interest to this community.
I even found the program so useful that I upgraded to the fee-based higher-function version. But the free version is a great place to start. Versions for Windows and MAC, iPhone, Android Phones, Blackberry Phone and others I think.
One cautionary note: even though I think it's reasonably safe and secure, your documents do get stored "in the cloud" as well as on your local devices. You'll want to be thoughtful about putting sensitive information into any program that keeps your data online.
I use it to keep a copy of user and maintenance manuals for the RV. I've downloaded the relevant files from the Tools section of this website, and also from vendor websites. I download the files, usually PDF documents, to a folder on my computer and have set up Evernote to automatically import files from that folder. Evernote then synchronizes those files across all my devices, including my iPhone. The synchronized files are then stored locally on each device. So even if I'm cut off from the internet, I can read the manuals from my computer or my iPhone.
When talking to servicers, or vendors, I create a new note to record the phone #s, names, and commitments. Again, the notes automatically sync to all devices. I got a follow up call from Heartland about something I ordered a few weeks ago. I was away from the RV but pulled up the notes on my iPhone to refresh my memory, and then added an update reflecting what was discussed on that call.
I also manage bills with Evernote. I keep a list of which regular bills come due on which dates, have links to their websites to check the amount due, and record the amount and date paid.
The list of things I use Evernote for has gotten pretty long, but I thought I'd mention some key things that might be of particular interest to this community.
I even found the program so useful that I upgraded to the fee-based higher-function version. But the free version is a great place to start. Versions for Windows and MAC, iPhone, Android Phones, Blackberry Phone and others I think.
One cautionary note: even though I think it's reasonably safe and secure, your documents do get stored "in the cloud" as well as on your local devices. You'll want to be thoughtful about putting sensitive information into any program that keeps your data online.