The latest of these tools is third-generation wireless technology, known as 3G. There's been a lot of talk about the advent of 3G, most of it in complicated techno-speak. Yes, 3G is a genuine technological breakthrough, but there is nothing mysterious about it.

Essentially, 3G is the wireless industry's version of broadband Internet service, offering faster speeds and more mobile applications. Faster speeds enable enhanced messaging, e-mail with attachments, enriched video and audio clips, and high-speed Internet browsing-all common applications in the wired desktop world. In short, 3G allows greater mobility for personal technology and business tools.

Wireless technology's first generation used analog signals, then advanced to the second generation, digital. High-speed 3G applications will be accessible through new versions of the same devices we use now: phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and laptops equipped with a wireless modem card. 3G services began to be rolled out last summer.

For some accounting professionals, faster wireless communications will be a convenience by adding the ability to work anytime, anywhere. But for professionals conducting a lengthy audit at a client's out-of-town headquarters, 3G can transform the work environment.

3G allows access to everything from your main office that may be needed, and makes it easier for colleagues to reach you. For example, many auditors must work in a conference room or in another temporary setup that is technologically bereft. 3G gives this auditor high-speed, seamless, wireless access to corporate applications at speeds better than traditional landline dialup connections. With a 3G connection card in a laptop or PDA, the auditor can download data, including critical client files from the office, two to five times faster than before. In addition to the speed benefit, it is often less expensive for business travelers to use a wireless connection card compared with paying variable hotel dial-up charges.

3G technology can lead to the joining of laptop, cell phone, and PDA capabilities in one device. Accountants will be able to travel lighter and still retain access to critical information. 3G also brings visual applications to a traditionally audio environment. 3G opens the door to a wider variety of content and services, including full access to the Web, e-mail, streaming videos, photos, and more.

3G technology will change the way business professionals use and interact with mobile devices. Now, wireless phones are mostly used to make calls. Soon, you may be spending as much time, if not more, viewing data on its screen. With 3G technology, you will see more icon-based screens and onetouch activation of programs.

Pricing for 3G services vary from provider to provider. Some charge for data use by the minute, and some by the bitthe amount of data being transmitted. The service is expected to be priced competitively and in a manner that encourages adoption by individuals and businesses alike.

In the accounting industry, handling customer interactions efficiently is key to building successful business relationships. In addition, accountants spend their days working with important data that needs to be accessed quickly from any location. 3G offers advanced wireless services that will keep you connected.

The accounting industry has always been paper-driven. Now, it is becoming technologydriven. 3G will ease the transition. It will streamline communications and provide faster access to critical data and files, giving you more time to focus on business-building tasks.

-- Maureen Link