Gizmogeek: Keeping in touch first

The best part of technology is being able to keep in touch with loved ones even when working far away from them. Lennart Paulsson, director and general manager (India), Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), treasures the humble webcam for this very reason. Paulsson, in his free time, practises tennis on the Nintendo Wii and shares files from his mobile.

What is the geekiest thing you have ever done?
Using the SMS push technique that SAS has introduced, which

I think is the latest “in thing” in executive travel planning. The customer has to log onto our website and apply with his mobile number, which is followed by an SMS that helps to check in or do re-bookings. An SMS is also sent to flag off the passenger when the flight departs or if there is any delay.

What gadget would be a perfect gift for you?
As computers do not allow moving around that much, I found the latest Nintendo Wii games quite cool. I would like to buy one for my children and wife, and equip it with tennis and gymnastic games.

Which of your gadgets makes you happy?
My Step Master, which I find is a cool toy. In the office, I have started walking around instead of calling and mailing. As our head office is rather large, about

55,000 sq m, we ensure that each one of us manages at least 10,000 steps a day. The prescribed range is 8,000 steps a day.

If you could build a dream gadget, what would it be?
I would love to formulate an infrared calculator that can compute the exact number of yards from the golf ball to the flag.

Which gadget do you show off the most?
The Nokia E51’s video gallery is probably used heavily (in conjunction with my laptop) to send files and images to friends. This is mainly to blow my own trumpet about improved skills on the golf course.

What was the first gadget that you bought?
I used a Palm Pilot, for its calendar function, when it was still new in the market. But it needed frequent synchronisation with a laptop to keep it updated. Thus, I changed back to an ordinary calendar.

What gadget do you use to stay in touch with people?
As I am located in Delhi and my family far away in Sweden, I find my newly installed webcam a big help in staying connected with my dear ones.