The document recommends satellite cell phones to improve communication during and after hurricanes. It conducted research to address maintaining communication access when typical services are impaired by hurricanes. The report recommends more individuals in hurricane-prone areas acquire satellite phones so rescue workers and families can communicate, and safety alerts can be distributed quickly. Purchasing additional satellite phones would enhance relief efforts by enabling communication when networks are damaged by natural disasters like hurricanes.

1. 7
Recommended Purchases for Virtual Reality
for the DeVry Addison Tech Playground
Prepared for:
Mr. Philip Barton,
Manager, DeVry Addison Tech Playground
Prepared by:
John Student and David Student
ENGL 216 Technical Writing
August 3, 2017
Figure 1. Untitled 3D rendering of person with a virtual reality
headset (Source: Google Images)
MEMORANDUM
DeVry University | 1221 North Swift Road Addison IL 60101

2. DATE:
August 7, 2017
TO:
Mr. Phillip Barton, Manager, DeVry Addison Tech Playground
FROM:
John Student and David Student
SUBJECT:
Memo of Transmittal for VR Research
Recommended Purchases for Virtual Reality for the Tech
Playground
We chose to research virtual reality (VR) because of its many
applications and benefits to the people who use VR. We wanted
to answer the questions that Mr. Barton had on VR and provide
our recommendations for improving the VR experience in the
Tech Playground.
In this report, we explain the answers that we give to the
questions provided by using a varied set of resources. We
believe that you should acquire more VR hardware so that more
people can experience it and that many new software programs
should be procured to be more appealing to a wider range of
people.
Thank you for giving us permission to complete this research
and provide recommendations on your next course of action.

3. Contents
List of Illustrations
3
Executive Summary
4
Introduction
5
Project Description
5
Scope of Research
5
Background Information on Virtual Reality
5
Definition of Virtual Reality
5
Uses for Virtual Reality
5
Virtual Reality in Education
6
Virtual Reality in Business
7
Recommended VR Application and Costs
7
Recommended VR Purchases

4. 7
Cost
8
Conclusion
8
Illustrations
Figures
1. Untitled 3D rendering of a person wearing a VR headset
1
2. Untitled
6
Table
Budget for Recommended Tech Playground VR Purchases
8
Appendix
10
Recommended Specifications for an Oculus Rift-Enabled
Computer
10
Executive Summary

5. Mr. Barton, Manager of the DeVry Addison Tech Playground,
requested that we research virtual reality (VR), the extensive
applications for it and new software programs that would be
beneficial to obtain for the Tech Playground. We went further to
recommend VR hardware that we thought would be good to buy.
We have spent the last seven weeks researching virtual reality
to provide a set of in-depth recommendations.
We have spent time researching answers to these four questions:
what is VR, what are the real-world applications of VR, what
are some software programs that would be beneficial to obtain
and what would those programs cost. We also looked into VR
hardware and the cost for that. We found a number of different
hardware options that varied in price and quality. We also
discovered that there is a vast number of software programs for
virtual reality that cost very little, sometimes nothing.
We recommend that you purchase the Oculus Rift variety of
virtual reality equipment as they provide a higher possible
quality. The bundle is the best option because it comes with the
headset and the handset which provides a more realistic
experience. You will also need to purchase a new computer
which is able to support virtual reality. The new computer can
be purchased pre-built with all the recommended specs for the
Oculus Rift.
Introduction
Project Description
The Tech Playground, which is in Room 118 on the DeVry
Addison campus, opened in January 2017 to allow anyone on
campus to experiment with modern technology. It is a
technology- filled room that must stay up to date with new
advancements that keep coming. Virtual reality (VR) is a
growing technology that is becoming increasingly realistic. We

6. are researching VR to help update the Tech Playground.
Scope of Research
We have researched different applications for VR technology
and will propose new software and hardware purchases that
would be beneficial for the Tech Playground. We answered the
following questions:
· What is virtual reality?
· What are use cases for it?
· How is it being used in industry, in schools, in training
situations?
· If the Tech Playground were to purchase additional VR
applications, what should they be?
· What are good entertainment and learning apps that would
appeal to and benefit the Tech Playground’s diverse clientele?
· How much do these applications cost?
Background Information on Virtual Reality
In this section, we will give an overview of what Virtual Reality
is along with its current uses.
Definition of Virtual Reality
According to the Virtual Reality Society (2017), virtual reality
describes a “three-dimensional, computer generated
environment which can be explored and interacted with by a
person.” This person “is immersed within this environment” and
“is able to manipulate objects or perform a series of actions
(para. 5).
Uses for Virtual Reality
Some of the leading fields that are using VR technology include
medicine, entertainment, military (see figure 1 below) and
police uses, business, and “hands on” job training (“Virtual
Reality in Health Care, 2017). According to Winn (1993), “the
psychological processes that become active in immersive VR

7. are very like the psychological processes that operate when
people construct knowledge through interaction with objects
and events in the real world. Thus, giving real world training
experience to those that may not be out in the technical field but
still have a way of gaining experience for a given job” (para. 2).
Figure 2. Untitled photo of soldiers using VR for training
(Source: Google Images).
Virtual Reality in Education
Virtual reality can be used in various educational settings. One
of the leading uses is in medical training. According to the
Virtual Reality Society (2017), three-dimensional graphics of
the human body have been developed in VR software; students
can use this technology to study anatomy and physiology or
practice surgery techniques. With this sort of technology, it
would be possible to train surgeons and nurses without having
them do any dangerous procedures. They would be able to
practice proper techniques before getting in the operating room
with a real patient. Such technologies are mainly used in the UK
and other countries abroad (Virtual Reality Society, 2017).
Another practical use for VR technology would be for those
students interested in learning more about the solar system. One
example of the many VR programs offering educational training
is the immersive experience of being in space that could
otherwise be felt only in traditional video games or in the
unlikely event the person is an astronaut. The Virtual Reality
Society (2017) says students gain insight “by physical
engagement with the objects within. Students can move planets,
see around stars and track the progress of a comet. This also
enables them to see how abstract concepts work in a three-
dimensional environment which makes them easier to
understand and retain” (para. 3). This offers students with
certain learning styles a helpful way of retaining information
that is richer than a traditional textbook.
Virtual Reality in Business
There is a possibility for virtual reality to be used in business to

8. make meetings easier. We already have conference calls so
everyone can join in on a meeting even when the people
involved live in different countries. The same can be said about
using Skype or a similar software, which allows people to see
each other and interact with each other on screen. Similarly,
VR can be used to bring “people located in widely dispersed
parts of the world” so they “can interact in a shared
environment and carry out tasks together” (“Enhance Virtual
Reality,” 2017, para. 8). This is not exactly feasible right now
because the realism of the virtual meetings is not yet good
enough to be widely used. However, as the technology becomes
better, virtual meetings will become as widespread as
conference calls were and Skype-like technology is.
Recommended VR Applications and Costs
As with all technologies, the costs always go down with time.
For example, Google's Daydream View, the Samsung Gear VR,
or even the simple Google Cardboard are all VR devices that
when introduced where incredibly expensive. Now many budget
virtual reality headsets on the market work well with personal
phones like iPhones and Samsung devices.
Recommended VR Purchases
In his article, Matthew Field (2017) describes some cost-
efficient ways of using VR while still experiencing the modern
technology as it was meant to be. The Tech Playground already
has one of these devices:
· Google Cardboard- Google Cardboard “is an option that is
similar in terms of effects, but simpler in terms of technology.
It uses a simple cardboard with integrated optics to create the
VR effect” (para. 7). The cost is anywhere between $7-$10
(Field, 2017). Most of the apps range from .99- $4.99; some of
the apps include Cardboard, Endspace VR, Google Arts and
Culture, and Within VR. Google Cardboard allows users to

9. visit famous areas, explore certain 3-D environments, play
games, and immerse themselves in documentary experiences
(Field, 2017).
We recommend that the Tech Playground purchase or upgrade to
two more of Field’s recommended devices:
PlayStation VR- 5.7-inch OLED. Offers support for 360-degree
videos used in apps like YouTube, concert and vacation
experiences, and various games available straight off
playstation.com.
Oculus Rift- Also used in Samsung Gear VR powerful
resolution and a wide array of advanced features for as low as
$99 for the actual device. The bundle that includes the “touch”
feature starts at $399. This separate device allows for the full
immersive VR experience. The applications cost the same as
video games for other leading consoles, such like Xbox 1 or
PlayStation 4 (PS)—around $50-$60. The applications for this
device are also the same as that of the PS VR in that it offers
immersive video gaming experiences (see Appendix for some
computer specifications needed to run Oculus Rift applications)
In addition, we recommend that the Tech Playground purchase
several software programs to run on this new hardware. Each
program is comes highly recommended and is inexpensive,
approximately $10-50.
Cost of Purchases
We recommend enhancing the Tech Playground by purchasing
additional VR hardware and software, which can be done for a
total cost of less than $1500. Budget details are listed below.
Costs represent an average price we found online.
Table 1
Budget for Recommended Tech Playground Virtual Reality

10. Purchases
Product
Cost
Quantity
Oculus Rift touch bundle
Oculus ready PC
Virtual Desktop Software
The Climb Software
Damaged Core Software
Darknet Software
Chronos Software
Total:
$399.99
$799.99
$14.99
$49.99
$29.99
$9.99
$49.99
$1339.94
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
7

11. Conclusion
Virtual reality is the interaction of an individual with 3-D
objects that are computer-generated to create an experience
otherwise difficult to obtain. It is being used for training,
relaxation or education by many different organizations and
people. There are plenty of ways to experience VR; some of
those ways are more expensive or more realistic than others.
Many of the applications that can be obtained for the system are
very cheap or even free, and they vary greatly.
We recommend that you slowly obtain more VR hardware
(depending on the most appropriate price and desire) along with
obtaining new VR applications since their cost is quite low.
References
Enhance virtual reality. (2017). Retrieved from
http://www.engineeringchallenges.org/challenges/virtualreality.
aspx
Field, M. (2017, July 25). The 10 best virtual reality apps. The
Telegraph Technology.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/0/10-best-virtual-
reality-apps/
Oculus Rift. (2017). Oculus Support Center. Retrieved from
https://support.oculus.com/1633938460220125/
[Untitled 3D rendering of person wearing a VR headset].
Retrieved from
https://www.google.com/search?biw=1536&bih=759&tbm=isch
&sa=1&ei=jqQUWvzrFqbojwSY8Ku4CA&q=virtual+reality&oq
=virtual+reality&gs_l=psy-
ab.3...0.0.0.21627.0.0.0.0.0.0.0.0..0.0....0...1c..64.psy-
ab..0.0.0....0.dZv2yJS5vVU#imgrc=EqdkIBgsxCGriM:
[Untitled photograph of soldiers using VR for training].
Retrieved from
https://www.google.com/search?biw=1536&bih=759&tbm=isch

12. &sa=1&ei=g6EUWt_ECMHAjwTfuLzoAw&q=virtual+reality+a
nd+military&oq=virtual+reality+and+mi&gs_l=psy-
ab.1.1.0i24k1l3.7753.10713.0.13891.7.7.0.0.0.0.114.513.6j1.7.0
....0...1c.1.64.psy-ab..0.7.512...0j0i67k1.0.jTD4BPj-
qSY#imgrc=Mtef6kiA9KkQFM:
Virtual reality in healthcare. (2017). Retrieved from
https://www.vrs.org.uk/virtual-realityhealthcare/
Virtual reality in education. (2017). Retrieved from
https://www.vrs.org.uk/virtual-reality-education/
Virtual Reality Society. (2017). What is virtual reality?
Retrieved from https://www.vrs.org.uk/virtual-reality/what-is-
virtual-reality.html
Winn, W. (1993, August). A conceptual basis for educational
applications of virtual reality. Retrieved from
http://www.hitl.washington.edu/research/education/winn/winn-
paper.html~
Appendix
Recommended Specifications for an Oculus Rift-Enabled
Computer
According to the Oculus Rift Support Center (2017), these are
the recommended and minimum specifications when purchasing
a computer to run VR software.
Recommended Specs:
Graphics Card
NVIDIA GTX 1060 / AMD Radeon RX 480 or greater
Alternative Graphics Card
NVIDIA GTX 970 / AMD Radeon R9 290 or greater
CPU
Intel i5-4590 equivalent or greater
Memory
8GB+ RAM
Video Output

13. Compatible HDMI 1.3 video output
USB Ports
3x USB 3.0 ports, plus 1x USB 2.0 port
OS
Windows 10
Minimum Specs
Graphics Card
NVIDIA GTX 1050 Ti / AMD Radeon RX 470 or greater
Alternative Graphics Card
NVIDIA GTX 960 4GB / AMD Radeon R9 290 or greater
CPU
Intel i3-6100 / AMD FX4350 or greater
Memory
8GB+ RAM
Video Output
Compatible HDMI 1.3 video output
USB Ports
1x USB 3.0 port, plus 2x USB 2.0 ports
OS
Windows 8.1 or newer
Note: Some Rift content may require a computer that exceeds
Oculus’s minimum or recommended specs. Please refer to the
recommended specs when browsing content in the Oculus Store.
Information found at
https://support.oculus.com/1633938460220125/

14. 10
Recommended Technology
for Communication During and After a Hurricane
Prepared for:
Dr. Julie Hagemann
Representative for Disaster Relief Agencies
Prepared by:
Team AP
ENGL 216 Technical Writing
December 10, 2017
Figure 1. The first images from Dominica show the scale of the
damage caused by Hurricane Maria in 2017 (AFP/Getty Images
in Phipps, 2017).
MEMORANDUM

15. DeVry University | 1221 North Swift Road Addison IL 60101
DATE:
December 10, 2017.
TO:
Dr. Julie Hagemann, Representative, Disaster Relief Agencies
FROM:
Team AP
SUBJECT:
Technology for Communication During and Directly After a
Hurricane
Recommended Technology
for Communication During and Directly After a Hurricane
For this project, we were asked to recommend a technology that
can be used to help with disaster relief, either for relief
agencies to provide or for private citizens to buy. We chose to
focus on technology that can be used during and directly after a
hurricane to maintain communications. Typically, during this
time, communications is poor, which impedes rescue, recovery,
and relief. So we wanted to research how to improve
communications in this situation.
In this report, we address several questions regarding
communication access during and after hurricanes using a
variety of resources. We believe that more individuals in
hurricane-prone areas should acquire a satellite cell phone so
that communication can be increased during and directly after a
hurricane. With satellite phones, rescue workers can
communicate with each other and with victims more easily, and
families can more easily stay in touch. In addition, safety alerts
can be sent out at a much quicker pace.
Thank you for giving us the authorization to complete this study

16. and make available our recommendations.
Table of Contents
List of Illustrations 3
Executive Summary 4
Introduction 5
Purpose of the Report 5
Scope of Research 5
Communication During and After a Hurricane 5
Natural Disasters and Their Impact on Communications 5
Importance of Communication During a Disaster 6
Consequences of Communication Infrastructure Failure6
Spread of Bad Information and Confusion 7
Recommendations 7
Cost of Leading Satellite Phones 7
Information Needed When Purchasing a Satellite Phone 8
Recommendations to BlueCosmo 9
Recommendations to Private Individuals 9
Conclusion 9
References
List of Illustrations
Figures
The first images from Dominica show the scale of the damage
caused by Hurricane Maria in 2017 1
Roseau, the capital of Dominica, suffered devastating damage
from Hurricane Maria 6
A Comparison of Various Satellite Phone Options 7

17. Executive Summary
Dr. Julie Hagemann, a Representative for Disaster Relief
Agencies, requested that we research technologies that can help
speed up disaster relief. We decided to focus on the lack of
communication during and after a hurricane in hurricane-prone
areas, such as Dominica in the Caribbean Sea. We recommend
satellite cellphone technology because it can best handle
communication problems during a natural disaster.
We have spent the last seven weeks researching answers to
these six questions:
· What is needed during an emergency?
· Why is communication important during a disaster?
· What is the impact of natural disasters on communication
technology and processes?
· What is the best satellite phone to use during and after a
hurricane?
· How much does it cost?
· What accessories are needed?
Communications of all kinds are poor during a disaster. Cell
phone technology does not work in situations where there is no
electricity or when cell towers are down. Information sent
through radio and newspapers—if it can be disseminated at
all—can get misinterpreted. Therefore, we looked at different
satellite phones and found the cost for those. We discovered
that satellite phones are the best communication tool because
they can work even in terrible weather conditions.
We recommend that disaster relief agencies purchase and make
widely available any one of the BlueCosmo satellite phones.
BlueCosmo is a top provider for satellite phones and phone
plans. We also recommend that households in hurricane-prone

18. areas rent or purchase their own satellite phones.
Introduction
Purpose of the Report
The purpose of our report is to research communication
technology that would aid relief agencies and people during and
after a natural disaster, such as a hurricane. Natural disasters
can happen at any time, and people need the right product that
will help with communication. We have determined that
satellite phones (also called “sat phones”) would be the most
beneficial technology to help with response during a natural
disaster.
Scope of Research
We researched communication technology and determined that
sat phones were the best option for communicating during and
after a hurricane. We answered the following questions:
· What is needed during an emergency?
· Why is communication important during a disaster?
· What is the impact of natural disasters on communication
technology and processes?
· What is the best satellite phone to use during and after a
hurricane?
· How much does it cost?
· What accessories are needed?
Communication During and After a Hurricane
To understand the benefits of satellite phones, it is helpful to
understand why communication is important during a disaster
and how a disaster, such as a hurricane, impacts communication
systems.
Natural disasters and their impact on communications

19. Yonatan (2017) points out that communication is essential in a
disaster, but “standard communications channels are some of
the first things to fail once catastrophe hits” (Communication
Issues During a Disaster section, para. 1). For example, strong
winds, heavy rain, and inevitable flooding can cut off signals to
important wireless links, damage cables between cell towers, or
topple cell towers. Moreover, networks can be overwhelmed
with the number of people calling for emergency help or rescue
and checking on loved ones.
Importance of communication during a disaster
In a Disaster Recovery Journal article,Richards (2015) says
“communications systems during a natural disaster can be the
difference between life and death for those affected. Locating
those who may be trapped or injured becomes nearly impossible
for emergency responders, and rescue efforts are further
complicated by the inability to coordinate via standard methods
of communication” (para.2). Richards (2015) also says that “in
the immediate hours and days following a disaster, the top
priority for emergency responders is to prevent any further loss
of life, and if possible, mitigate damage to property and public
infrastructure. During this time, it is critical that rescue workers
and government officials coordinate their efforts and locate
victims who may be injured or trapped, but relief efforts can be
paralyzed or severely delayed if the responding agencies are
unable to communicate with one another” or with victims
(para.9). Figures 1 and 2 show how much damage a category 5
hurricane can do; it is easy to see that communication is easily
impacted.
Figure 2. Roseau, the capital of Dominica, suffered devastating
damage from Hurricane Maria (Getty Images, Phipps, 2017).
Consequences of Communications Infrastructure Failure

20. Federal, municipal, and independent agencies try to work
together during major relief efforts. However, this is a complex
task because often organizations have their own way of doing
things so agreeing on things is difficult. Richards (2015) points
out that “when network connections are limited or unavailable,
effective coordination becomes further complicated, and the
lack of an overarching command structure can create
miscommunications and delays in action. In time-sensitive
situations such as these, even those few minutes lost can mean
the difference between life and death for victims in need of
rescue” (para.10).
Spread of Bad Information and Confusion
A lot of information should flow out of disaster zones on both
public and private networks. In disaster areas, people often have
limited access to communications and reports. According to
Richards (2015), “while not as dangerous as a delay in
emergency response efforts, the rumors that may result from the
imbalance of communication channels here has the potential to
create a great deal of confusion. Without an organized flow of
information, conflicting reports of casualties, damage to
property, and other dangers can spread misinformation and
panic at a time when organization and level-headedness are key
to carrying out rescue operations as quickly and efficiently as
possible” (para.12).
Given all this, we need to look for communication technology
that can help with the problems that come with communication
during and after a hurricane. After doing research, we believe
satellite phones meet these requirements. Below we will give
recommendations on which satellite phone is the best to buy and
why.
Recommendations

21. In a 2013 Forbes article, Tobias explains how satellite phones
work: “Sat phones rely on a network of satellites that are either
fixed above the Equator (Geostationary), or in Low Earth Orbit
(LEO) anywhere from 500 to 1,000 miles above the earth”
(para. 2). He goes on to note that “sat phones are rarely
affected by violent storms and, depending upon their system
architecture, work virtually anywhere in the world. The devices
weigh a few ounces and may be about the same size as your cell
phone” (para. 2). This versatility is the main reason we
recommend satellite phone technology.
Tobias (2013) points out that “traditional sat phones buyers are
government and public safety agencies, energy companies,
shippers, and search and rescue organizations. But an increasing
number of private individuals are buying sat phones as an
insurance policy against losing their capability to communicate
with the world” (para.3). Our recommendation is that more
homeowners in hurricane-prone areas purchase or rent satellite
phones.
Cost of Leading Satellite Phones
Although satellite phones may seem very expensive, one or two
per household is sufficient. BlueCosmo is a top provider of
satellite phones. According to the BlueCosmo website (n.d.),
prices range between $699 and $1,295 (see Figure 3) and
monthly airtime plans range from $30 to $47 per month. If a
family cannot afford to buy a phone at the time of an impending
disaster, they can rent one. If the phone needs repair,
BlueCosmo also does repairs.
Figure 3. A comparison of various satellite phone options
(BlueCosmo Satellite Communications, n.d.).
BlueCosmo Satellite Communications (n.d.) offers a variety of

22. satellite phones with various options to ensure people can
always stay in communication with others.
Satellite phones can both make calls and receive calls, and it is
possible to browse the internet with one.
Information Needed When Purchasing a Satellite Phone
Here is some advice about buying a satellite phone:
Accessories
· We recommend you buy an extra battery. Batteries are needed
to charge the phone during a hurricane when the electricity is
out.
· We recommend you buy docking stations when the handsets
are not in use, especially indoors.
Sim Card
· A Sim card is not a required. It depends on how much money
you are willing to spend.
Internet Availability
· Satellite phones have internet availability, but the data can be
slow. Since the main purpose for the satellite phone is for
emergency use, it is best not to browse the internet, as the data
can be very slow. However, if you need to browse the internet
on your satellite phone, the Globalstar brand is the best option.
Rent
· If a satellite phone is needed for the hurricane season, we
recommend you buy one. If the satellite phone is needed only
when the hurricane is approaching, then it can be rented.
Charges
· For individuals who live outside the U.S., the service rate may
seem expensive. While satellite phones are expensive, they are
also necessary, so homeowners should think of them as they
would other infrastructure in the house, such as electricity or

23. internet service. As long as they stay within Canada, the US or
the Caribbean, BlueCosmo customers do not have to pay
roaming charges.
· For lower cost, the Globalstar brand is more efficient.
There is no doubt that due to global warming, there is a rise in
disasters, especially hurricanes, not only in number but also in
intensity. Instead of a category 3 or 4 hurricane striking years
apart, they now strike within months of each other. There is
now a negative impact on the human habitat. The death toll has
risen tremendously, and communication during and directly
after such disasters has become a great concern. In this light, to
improve communication during and directly after a hurricane,
we recommend that satellite phones be widely used. Then
families can communicate with one another, and relief teams
will be quickly alerted to the need for immediate assistance.
For families living where there are often hurricanes, such as the
Caribbean, we recommend that every household have a satellite
phone. It would be more efficient to purchase one, but it is also
possible to rent one.
Conclusion
Major natural disasters, like hurricanes, can destroy people’s
property and “those who need aid will require satellite phones
to communicate their situation, as well as confirm their
location” (“Satellite Phone Experiences,” n.d., para. 3). Having
a good disaster response plan can help people through a crisis.
Maintaining access to communication should be a key part of
the plan. Satellite phones are lifesavers during hurricanes
because when cell phones do not work, satellite phones will.
Satellite phones are the best solution for quick and continuous
communication during and directly after a hurricane. Other
technology forms of communication get interrupted at the time
of disaster. The more individuals own a satellite phone, the

24. more fluent communication will remain during the disaster.
References
BlueCosmo Satellite Communications. (n.d.). Satellite phones.
Retrieved from
http://www.bluecosmo.com/satellite-phones
Phipps, C. (2017, September 21). Hurricane Maria: Dominica 'in
daze' after storm leaves island cut off from world. theguardian.
Retrieved from
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/sep/21/dominica-
daze-hurricane-maria-island-caribbean-rescue#img-1
Richards, C. (2015, November 12). When communications
infrastructure fails during a disaster. Disaster Recovery Journal.
Retrieved from https://www.drj.com/articles/online-
exclusive/when-communications-infrastructure-fails-during-a-
disaster.html
Satellite phone experiences during tragedies/disasters. (n.d.).
Retrieved from https://www.globalcomsatphone.com/phone-
articles/satellite-phone-experiences
Tobias, M. W. (2013, March 12). How and when to buy satellite
phones. Retrieved from
https://www.forbes.com/sites/marcwebertobias/2013/03/18/
how-and-when-to-buy-a-satellite-phone/#7fbfd6d3647d
Yonatan, R. (2017, August 28). How to communicate during a
disaster [Blog post]. Retrieved from
https://getvoip.com/blog/2017/08/28/communicate-during-
disaster/

25. Running head: RECOMMENDATION FOR ACCOUNTING
SOFTWARE PROGRAMS 9
Recommendation for accounting software Programs
DeVry University
Student - Deep Patel
Professor Hagemann
04/01/2018
Executive Summary
Comfort Finance is a business company that operates by giving
loans to companies and individuals over a specified period of
time agreed upon by stakeholders involved therein. The offer
both long-term and short terms loans. The loans offered are
inclusive of soft loans to individuals who want to set up small
business enterprises. The company makes profits through
interest realized on loans during their payment period. They
also give money to individuals who give their properties as a
security for the loans acquired. Goods involved herein as a
security may involve such as Vehicle logbooks, laptops, among
others depending on the amount of loan desired and the
agreement between the lender and borrower.
However they employ the use of an old accounting systems that
have raised an eyebrow in the company. The security of the
applied accounting system is poor as seen by the use of the

26. poorly protected programs and database which creates an
avenue for hackers and other cyber criminals to use the
company information for malicious purposes. The technology
employed lacks automation of accounting where data is
transferred to multiple systems and reports. Information are
entered incorrectly and thus errors continually erupt. The
management have considered that computerized systems need to
be updated.
They have been a lot of problems that have also erupted
associated with the accounting program systems that are out of
date. The accounting systems are associated with compatibility
issues, speed of access is slow, lack of a bank reconciliation
feature, difficult to customize, lack of security, lack of security,
lack of efficiency , lack of 24/7 technical support. The
management have therefore called for a system the use of an
accounting system program that is efficient, effective, cost
effective, and adaptable to the organization, secure and user
friendly. (Maduqne, 2013).
Introduction
An accounting system program is a system in an organization
used to manage the expenses, income and other financial
activities within a business. Its helps a business keep track of
all kinds of financial transaction where purchases, sales and
liabilities are inclusive. A proper accounting system is capable
of generating a comprehensive statistical report that provides
management with a clear data set vital in decision making
Computer-based accounting is generally automated using
specialized software. (Maduqne, 2013).
Scope of the Research.
I have carried a research on various types of accounting systems
and will therefore propose an accounting system that would best
suit the company. I have therefore the following questions.
a) What are various types of an accounting system?
b) How can use the right accounting system?
c) What is the uses of accounting system?
d) Which usability factors does our company require?

27. e) How much do these systems cost?
Various types of accounting systems.
Accounting systems exist in a variety of forms. The various
available accounting systems have differ in their appearance,
security system, simplicity and complexity, adaptability and
compatibility issues. The available accounting systems include
such as single systems, double entry systems, manual systems,
and computerized. The accounting systems programs include
such FreshBooks, Xero, QuickBooks Mircokeeper, Sage Intacct,
Happay, Zoho Books, Bright Appeal, and Tipalti, Industrious
CFO among others.
Choosing the right accounting systems.
When choosing the right accounting systems, things that are put
into considerations include such as costs, usability and features.
The number users is also another determinant factor. Comfort
Finance would prefer the most inexpensive basic accounting
software application. A more expensive and software that has
extra features would work best. The number of users to access
the software need to be determined. A cloud- based system that
can be accessed anywhere. A mobile application systems would
work best. Features such as accounts receivable and payable
tools are essential. Accounting system that has a capability of
tracking inventory and tracking time, project management and
payroll would suit the interest of Comfort Finance Company.
(Chron, 2016)
Usability factors.
In an accounting software, there are certain usability factors
that need to be considered. The factors that need consideration
include such as Multi user access. Multi user access allows one
to invite others users and have control over that information
that the invited users can gain access to. Systems that allow one
to invite multiple users at no additional cost would work best.
Multiple –business support consists of an accounting software
system that can support multiple small business under one
account at minimal costs. Cloud based software and mobile

28. access refers to a accounting system that allows access to one’s
account anytime, anytime from whichever place one maybe be
located from any computer provided internet connection is
available. It enables remote monitoring of account whether on a
vacation or at home. Accounting software that has a mobile
application would also serve best. (Madourne, 2010).
Basic accounting features.
The basic accounting software features may include such as
affordability, automation, scalability, billing and invoicing,
integration and support. These the commonly search basic
features that a proper accounting system. (Top Accounting Tool,
2015).
Uses of Accounting Systems.
An accounting software system provide companies with
important information regarding the operation of the business.
The uses may include such as performance, creating budgets,
investments and business decisions. The importance of
accounting systems revolve round accuracy, speed, cost, tax and
reports. An accounting software helps in increasing accuracy
levels by reducing human errors in calculation. An accounting
software also help in the reducing of costs as it enables
members of an accounting team to do more work within a short
period of time. This in effect reduces the accounting department
payroll. Accounting systems allow data processing with greater
speed as compared to manual processing due to the use of
computerized systems which has the capability of processing
figures at a faster rate that the human brain. Staff members are
able to be provided with a timely and accurate financial
information through the help of these accounting software’s.
Accounting software aids in filling of business taxes, a process
which sometimes is consisted of complex procedural activities.
Companies such as Intuit and ATX manufacture tax returns
software’s capable of that integrate with their accounting
programs. (Andy, 2018).
Recommended Accounting Systems software.
Basing our knowledge on the technological advancements,

29. modern accounting software would best suit Comfort Company.
However the accounting systems employed depends majorly on
the operating systems currently in use. This move is to reduce
compatibility errors such as seen in Mac operating systems that
only use Xero accounting software. My recommendation f the
best accounting software was based on evaluation of the
following factors; costs, ease of use, customer service,
timesaving features, customers service, mobile access and
features, integration with a third party, and service limitations.(
Fairbanks, 2018). I therefore the use such as FreshBooks, and
QuickBooks.
FreshBooks.
This is an award winning cloud hosted accounting and invoicing
app. It is an automated application that performs a variety of
functions such as calculation of taxes, charging clients card
securely, sending reminders, creating of invoices, categorizing
of invoices, important of expenses from banks, billing for
payments, billing tracked hours and securely charging clients
credit card. This accounting system have enabled startups and
small business to do more work within a short period of time in
a good manner. It has intuitive features and is simple to
navigate through. The software has a cloud platform that comes
with mobile applications that enables one to work with any
connected device irrespective of time and location. I strongly
recommend the use of FreshBooks.
Diagrammatic representation of FreshBooks Software
QuickBooks.
This is low priced accounting software suitable for small

30. business like Comfort. It has a platform for performing tasks
relating to recording expenses for tax time and creating
customized invoices. The system can automatically download,
categorize and reconcile both bank and credit transactions. It
also take control over the flow of cash in an organization. One
is able to capture and save receipts anytime, anywhere hence
one has full control over expenses. Billing and invoicing
systems are very efficient. (Top Accounting Tool, 2010).
Cost of Purchase.
The cost of procuring Accounting systems software is
estimated to be $1500. Both FreshBooks and QuickBooks have
similar charges. The budget details are a listed below.
Table 1
Budget for recommended accounting software, (FreshBooks and
QuickBooks).
Product
Cost
Quantity
Software Purchase – (FreshBooks).
$ 500.00
1
( QuickBooks
$500.00
1
Installation fee
500.00
Total
$1,500
1

31. Conclusion
Since Comfort Finance has expanded, the old methods of
accounting need not to exist. The manual systems of accounting
are to be replaced with modern automated software’s to ensure
that inventory are kept in track. This will solve the problems
that have been arising from the company as well as making the
work of the staff easier. Profits will be realized and threats will
be detected before they get out of hand. Such as FreshBooks
and QuickBooks are the latest accounting chosen. They are
reliable, secure and cost effective and will therefore help
Comfort Finance manage its inventories effectives. A proper
accounting software is the success if any accounting
department.
References.
Romney, M. B., & Steinbart, P. J. (2009). Accounting
information systems. Upper Saddle River, N.J: Pearson Prentice
Hall.
International Symposium on Environmental Software Systems,
& In Hřebíček, J. (2013). Environmental software systems:
Fostering information sharing : 10th IFIP WG 5.11 International
Symposium, ISESS 2013, Neusiedl am See, Austria, October 9-
11, 2013. Proceedings.
Siegel, J. G., Shim, J. K., Dauber, N. A., & Qureshi, A. A.
(2015). Accounting handbook.

32. Mancini, D., Vaassen, E. H. J., & Dameri, R. P.
(2013). Accounting information systems for decision making.
Berlin: Springer.
Simkin, M. G., Rose, J. M., & Norman, C. S. (2015). Core
concepts of accounting information systems.
Bragg, S. M. (2001). Cost accounting: A comprehensive guide.
New York: John Wiley.
McGuire, E. (1999). Software process improvement: Concepts
and practices. Hershey, Pa: Idea Group Pub.
Bragg, S. M. (2013). Accounting best practices. Hoboken, N.J:
John Wiley & Sons.
Maedche, A., Botzenhardt, A., & Neer, L. (2014). Software for
people: Fundamentals, trends and best practices.
Writer
Reviewer
ENGL 216
Course Project Peer Review 1
Week 6
For each peer review,
1. Download this form and save it as Your Last Name Peer
Review of Your Writer’s Last Name.
2. Read your writer’s report carefully.

33. 3. Address each of the questions below in 2 – 4 sentences. An
effective comment will make an observation, and if needed,
suggest an improvement. Use as much space as you need.
Does the INTRODUCTION section provide a purpose,
description, and scope for the report? To what extent does the
writer clearly explain the purpose? If needed, how can the
writer make the purpose of the report clearer?
There is no table of content which would have listed sections in
hierarchical way, using title subtitles and giving accurate page
reference. However, the introduction provides the purpose.
Description and scope of the report. The main purpose of the
report is to discuss various types of accounting systems.
Does the DISCUSSION section provide enough background
information for the reader? Does the writer organize the ideas
logically? To what extent are the main points easy to find and
to grasp? If needed, what information should the writer add to
this section?
The information in the draft is well organized but not in that
logical manner because the writer did not indicate the
discussion part of the paper for a reader to understand the issues
surround accounting system. However, the information provided
is good to inform the reader though did not add more to it part.
Does the CONCLUSION section flow logically from the
discussion section and provide a transition to the
recommendations section? To what extent does the writer
restate the main points clearly and concisely? If needed, what
information should the writer add to this section?

34. The main points are clear and concise, and also flow in logical
form. The conclusion takes everything said but does not
mention anything new.
Does the RECOMMENDATIONS section provide one or more
recommendations? To what extent does the writer clearly
explain the actions he/she is recommending the audience take,
how to implement them, and how much they will cost? To what
extent does the writer convince the reader these are sound
recommendations worthy of adopting? If needed, how can the
writer make the recommendations clearer and more persuasive?
The recommendation section is clearly stated, and it also
supported the information provided in the report.
To what extent do(es) the VISUAL ELEMENT(S) enhance the
writer’s key points? Does the writer tag the element, label it,
and cite it according to APA guidelines? If needed, how can the
visual more effectively enhance the writer’s ideas or follow
APA guidelines more accurately?
The visual element was not complete, the table and
Diagrammatic representation of Fresh Books software did not
provide enough information for a reader to understand. I believe
writer need to work on the visual element in order to convince
the readers.
To what extent is the REFERENCES list correctly formatted?
To what extent has the writer incorporated each listed source
effectively into the main body of the report and cited it
accurately according to APA guidelines? If needed, what does

35. the writer need to do to more accurately follow APA guidelines?
The reference list was not annotated properly, the writer did not
follow the correct APA formatting. The writer need to follow
the sample paper under our discussion board to make necessary
correction.
To what extent does the writer use DOCUMENT DESIGN
ELEMENTS—headings and subheadings, single spacing (or
1.15), extra spacing between sections and/or paragraphs, proper
font choice, and bullets—effectively? If needed, what design
elements should the writer include?
The document design was used in right order. The writer used
proper front size in almost all the heading and subheading. The
front size was 12pt where the topic and sub topic were bolder
Does the writer use a PROFESSIONAL TONE and show “you
attitude”? Does he/she use a plain style, with concise sentence
that are grammatically correct and punctuated accurately? If
needed, what revisions should the writer make?
The writer looks professional in his work. There were minor
areas in punctuation, but the writer has good information and
suggestion in the report