Plus, marketing guru Andrew Lock shares his story, a Twitter tool for quick updates and a lesson from WinCo supermarkets on the effectiveness of proof points in ads.

Will new functions and features in the latest version of Microsoft’s office suite, currently available in beta, tempt you to lay your money down?

Whether by choice or circumstance, you’re suddenly self-employed during the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression. But these or low-cost, or free, online tools and services can alleviate some of the financial pressure and make running your business easier.

Give or get the gift that keeps on giving all year long: Wi-Fi gear. These wireless goodies will keep you mobile and in touch no matter where business, or pleasure, takes you.

Plus, record video interviews for free, an online marketplace for graphic design projects, and where to find reliable, easy-to-use WordPress themes for your Web sites or blogs.

If you’re looking for a stylish yet affordable PC to set the right tone in your company’s front office or reception area, consider HP’s 18.5-inch one-piece desktop. Added bonus: Windows 7.

Xactly Incent Express application leverages the Salesforce.com CRM platform, letting small business sales managers forgo spreadsheets and easily automate compensation plans.

Starter templates plus a public gallery of templates give people the ability to easily publish content on the Web.

If you’re thinking about diving in to Linux to save money, we’ve got the tips, resources and advice to help you swim, not sink.

With Wi-Fi Direct technology, you’ll be able to transfer data between Wi-Fi devices — from your smartphone to a printer in a hotel business center, for example — without logging in to a Wi-Fi network.