Turning Technologies, LLC, a leader in interactive response systems, joined the ranks of mobile polling companies last fall with a new application called ResponseWare, which allows participants to submit responses via Internet-connected cell phones and mobile devices, as well as computers. Now the Youngstown, Ohio-based company has made a leap toward mass distribution by making ResponseWare available as a free download for iPhone and iPod Touch users via the Apple App Store. While the new system hasn't replaced the radio-frequency response cards handed out to attendees at face-to-face meetings allowing instant feedback, it's easy to see the benefits of a system where participants can respond via the Internet, from wherever they are, without special hardware.

Strategic Reading

Executive coach Suzanne Bates, author of Speak Like a CEO (McGraw Hill), released her second book in December, titled Motivate Like a CEO: Communicate Your Strategic Vision and Inspire People to Act! With employees reeling from layoffs and cutbacks, the book's message — chief executive officers need to become chief motivating officers — couldn't come at a better time. Rather than making the case for structured incentive programs and rewards, Bates focuses on helping executives to engage with people and successfully mentor, encourage, and inspire a workforce.