The Virtual Assistant Networking Association (VANA) definition of a VA begins with the statement, "A Virtual Assistant (or VA) works independently at an arm's length, via the Internet, utilizing the latest technologies..."  During my University of Virtual Assistants training, I was amazed at what is out there and the advancements in technology.  I was especially surprised to learn what services are available for free.

Over the course of the next couple of months or so, I am going to explore the technology used by VAs more.  Technology is an area that is always developing.  It is an ongoing learning experience for everyone.  The speed of technology is so fast that it is hard to ever really be "up to speed" on it.  While it will take more experience for me to claim to be an expert, I will share in this series what I am learning.  The technology that VAs are using is not exclusive to the VA industry as they help many types of professionals around the world.

For some people, learning new technology can be uncomfortable as it takes them out of their comfort zone and presents weaknesses.  For others, like myself, it can be exciting learning something new as it opens up more possibilities to work with others.  As we become more and more of a global community and as our businesses expand more and more around the world, it is essential for better communication to use the latest technology available.

It does not seem long ago that few people had an e-mail address or Website.  To run a successful business today it is essential to have a Web presence and correspond via e-mail.  This is now expanding to blogging and podcasting.  Blogging and podcasting are a couple of areas that I will be learning more about in the coming weeks.  I just got an iPod a few months ago and I am just now learning how to listen to the music on it.  Apparently, it can also be a marketing tool!?! 

I will learn more and share with you all that I learn about these areas and more.  As I research, I will try to compile some of the more useful links, resources, and experts, and pass them along to you.  In my learning curve, if you know of some helpful links, resources, and experts, please "throw" them to me.  Please also feel free to add your knowledge to my blog in the comments section.  I think it would be nice and interesting to start a discussion.  We can learn from each other.  By no means will I be able to be comprehensive, but I hope to at least provide some kind of overview.