Top 12 must have iPad business apps (Part 1)

When the Apple iPad first came out, it never even thought about getting one. I was even saying, "It just looks like a big iPod Touch. I have an iPhone already, why would I get that?" Lo and behold! 4 months after the official US release, I got myself one of those shiny in demand gadgets!

I'm going to tell you first hand that the iPad and iPod Touch / iPhone experience is far from each other. Each has their own advantages and disadvantages. One thing's for sure though -- I'm using my iPad 80% of the time and finally, I used my iPhone as a, well, phone for the first time this year. (for the past few years, I've only inserted a data sim which can't call or send SMS)

So, what's the best business applications for me for the Apple iPad? Here's my top 12 must have business apps that's extremely useful: (In no particular order)



iCurrency Pad
This is not your usual calculator nor is this a simple currency converter application. With this application, you will be updated with the latest available exchange rates info on-the-go, in your iPad!

If you think that's all this can do, you're wrong! This application can also show you detailed historical data of past rates, price trends and more!


iCurrency for iPad application screenshots:

Simple calculator that immediately converts between currencies using the most recent exchange rates

Historical Data - Price trend chart

Worldwide currencies to choose from!

iMockups

iMockups for iPad is the PREMIERE mobile wireframing and mockup app for your web, iPhone and iPad projects.

"iMockups looks like a good tool for those of you who are tired of carrying around that sketchbook, pencil, and eraser for capturing your app ideas." - Steven Sande, TUAW.com

"iMockups could actually play an integral role in how you tackle new projects" - Computer Arts Magazine

In this day and age, every business needs a website. Have you ever had the problem of explaining something to a non-techie person? Whether you are a designer or a business owner having someone create a website for you, this is a powerful application to get your message across to each other clearer - better than layman's term because you can actually SEE something!

Plugging: Do you have web development requirements? How about that online system you've always wanted? Or maybe an iPhone/ iPad app to extend your reach? Contact me at chef_tonio@yahoo.com

iMockups for iPad application screenshots:

Welcome screen

Create a mockup website / iPhone app in an instant!

Create a mockup website / iPhone app in an instant!

You can export the mockup project via email

Jump Desktop

Quoting from the developer themselves, "Leave your laptop behind. Enjoy the freedom to work from anywhere. "

Simply put, this is an application that gives you almost 100% control of your PC or laptop using your Apple iPad. You just need to install something on your computer, have internet connection and there! Access your laptop/ PC from anywhere!

A little drawback that doesn't affect the performance: Sometimes the graphics are messed up (see below) and depending on your internet speed, you can experience lag times.

Jump Desktop for iPad application screenshots:

Surfing my blog using Google Chrome browser via Jump Desktop for iPad

You can easily type using your pop-up iPad keyboard

It also has a variety of command choices

Desktop

Ever wanted to have a web browser open while writing an email? Or a map open while looking at the weather?Desktop allows you to perform these and many other tasks by providing a split-screen multitasking environment, in which you can open and interact with any two of its bundled tools and utilities simultaneously. It's a simple app yet an extremely useful one!

Desktop for iPad application screenshots:

Top - Notes ; Bottom - Web browser (or choose from the different layouts available)

You can also utilize the entire screen and switch layouts in between

Other combination / functions to choose from

Dropbox

Simply said, this functions similarly to an online hard drive.

Notable features:
> All the contents of your Dropbox are available for viewing. You can even stream music and movies in your Dropbox straight to your iPad.
> Upload photos from your iPad and email its public link to a friend in less than a minute.

Dropbox for iPad application screenshots:

 

Security code access for file safekeeping 

Simple, easy to understand interface

Any files, anywhere!

Sign-N-Send

Ever experienced someone emailing you something for approval? What do other people do? Print - sign - scan - email back. What's the point of going digital, right?

With this application, you can sign on-the-go and email back in a minute! You can even add notes, comments and highlights!

Sign-n-Send for iPad application screenshots:

 

Highlight, comment and sign in a jiffy!

 

Type in app to add notes

Email back in a minute!

 In the next installment, I'll give you 6 more must-have iPad applications for business! iPad might be advertised for media consumption but no one said you can't  be productive on it!

I'm also coming up with a review of the iPad charging using the MiLi Power King. Also, we've reviewed several iPad accessories already that might interest you:
> One.of.the.best.iPad.bags.ever.
> OPT Apple iPad Sleeves
> OPT Apple iPad Armor Case


Also, we'll be reviewing Otterbox cases soon! Watch out!

Cheftonio