By David Wallace

For organizations that depend on forms, shared documents and standardized records, writing is still the best way to get work done. Filling in boxes, checking off lists and exchanging details can't be replaced by typing. And for remote workers, the digital pen can be mightier than the computer.

Digital pens by Maxell, Anoto or Logitech use tiny cameras or sensors to capture written data electronically. When the pen is docked in a recharging dock and connected to a computer, data is downloaded for use in any office software.

One key is finding form-intensive applications or on-the-go situations where computers may not be most effective, says Jason Soulier, president of Digital Pen Systems.

A digital pen teamed with a Blackberry or Palm device transfers data to your home office almost instantly. For example, one Utah-based alarm company knows whether its contracts are properly completed before the virtual ink even dries.

"It's not just automation or saving the cost of scanning and handling paper," he notes. "In sales, there's a chance to resolve questions while someone is at the point-of-sale and a chance to know that field work is done correctly while the person is still there."

Before you go shopping, be aware that some devices require specialized paper. Leapfrog's FlyFusion or Logitech's IOPen both use paper that can be "read" by the pen to save documents as they are written. The $150 pen needs a docking station that connects to your PC.

Others such as IoGear can use plain paper but use a clip-on viewer near the paper to capture pen strokes.

While practicing your penmanship, send a handwritten note from one of the thousands of Wi-Fi hotspots iPass offers around the world. Stay connected, no matter if you're talking, typing or writing—your coworkers and loved ones will thank you!