When installing new software in a Microsoft^® Windows 95^™, Microsoft^® Windows 98^™ or Microsoft^® Windows XP^™ environment:

• Before you start the installation close all open applications.  (Make sure you save any files if you don't want to loose the information.  Most software will show a dialog box asking you if you wish to save, but if the file is important, don't bet on it.   Click on "File" then "Save" before exiting or quitting.   This is really critical if you are running DOS applications.)

• Make sure you read the installation guide to find out if the old software must be removed.  In most cases this is advisable, but some "upgrades" require the old software to be present.

• Use "Ctrl"-"Alt"-"Del" key combination to bring up the end task window.  (The key combination consists of holding down the "Ctrl" and "Alt" keys then pressing the "Del" or "Delete" key.)

• "End Task" on everything but "Explorer"

• Install the new software.

• If the software does not do this automatically, shutdown and restart the system by single clicking on the start button and then on "Shut Down".  When the "Shut Down Windows" window appears click on "Restart" and "OK".

• When your system restarts all of the normal background programs should be running and your new software should be able to run correctly.

Microsoft, Windows 95 and Windows 98 are copyrights, trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

When deciding on a business format:

• Sole proprietorships are the least expensive and easiest means to begin if you are an individual or two spouses.

• DON'T incorporate unless one of the following is true:

  1. You have a lot of personal assets to protect currently.

  2. You have equity (not lenders of money) investors that are getting stock in the company.

• Use insurance to cover possible legal liabilities, don't rely on a corporate shield.   Most debt in startups must be personally guaranteed so having a corporation is not protection.  If you have to declare bankruptcy due to delinquency, personal bankruptcy will more than likely be necessary also.

• If incorporating, use a lawyer you know, but ask questions and don't go with a "Boilerplate" set of Articles and By-laws.  Make sure you understand all paragraphs.  Make sure you ask in advance for the total cost, and let the lawyer know exactly what you want.

• If forming a Partnership, understand that the partnership will be ended if any single partner leaves.

• Use a joint venture if the partnership is to be short term.

• DO EVERYTHING IN WRITING AND GET A LEGAL OPINION IF UNCERTAIN OF ANYTHING.