Online Dental Practice Management System
No question, world wide web, like any other communication medium, can be interrupted; but, in most regions of the usa, professionals can rely on dependable internet connections without the worry about their connection any more than they do about their electrical connection.
It is important to note the concern—what to do if your Internet does goes down—is it something every professional asks themselves when they switch to cloud-based services. Most will say that after some time they find their concerns were either unwarranted or hugely exaggerated.
Cloud-based Services are rapidly replacing the in house server dental software programs as the de facto standard in many industry practices. Software application providers are re-tooling their development teams to include engineers that have the necessary skill set to write cloud-based applications. Additionally, most software companies would be foolish not to provide a cloud-based version of a new application.
Microsoft, Adobe, Sun, and many other large software companies recognized long ago that the technology river was jumping its banks and beginning to flow away from the server and to the cloud. As a result, you'll find that these companies offer Web-based versions of their popular software. Obviously, the Achilles Heel of Web-based applications is the availability and dependability of a fast Internet connection. Every dental practice that moves to the cloud should be sure to incorporate an Internet connection backup plan, such as what has already been discussed.
In an effort to stem the flow of customers moving from client-server software to the cloud, some software companies are quick to say "What if the Internet goes down?"—a self-serving question with the intent to create fear in the mind of doctors who wonder if the cloud is for them. The question is relevant, but upon further examination you may find that disruptions to the Internet in your practice may be small in number and easily planned for by using a readily available backup connection.
Smartphone Tether If you use a smartphone, such as an Apple iPhone, Droid, Blackberry, or other similar device, you can connect to the Internet by connecting your phone to your computer using a cable (see photograph on next page). You'll then be able to access the Internet.
Your mobile wireless provider as well as other companies, such as Tether (www.tether.com) can provide you with more information. Depending upon the plan you have with your mobile wireless provider, additional data fees may apply when you are tethered to your phone.
As with all backup plans, there are some advantages and disadvantages to this option. The clear advantage is cost. Because you're already paying for a mobile phone, connecting it to your computer will cost you nothing more or a little more (depending upon your wireless plan).
Upload and download speeds on 3G will be acceptable if your primary Internet connection is down for only a short time. You should be able to schedule, chart, bill, and view reports with acceptable performance; keep in mind that performance is based upon your phone and mobile wireless provider. Your experience may be similar, better, or not as good.
The disadvantage is that you can only tether one computer to a phone at the same time. You will most likely have more than one computer in your office, so this plan may only be satisfactory for short disruptions to your Internet connection.
About the Author
Andy built one of the best-known brands in dental technology: secondly he built from scratch a new brand in the profession that is quickly gaining much attention as the brand to look to for web-based practice management software. Find out more about andy's business at http://www.curvedental.com
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