8 Free iPad Apps Too Good for Business Users To Miss

(MoneyWatch)  Apple (AAPL) is set to release the iPad this weekend. One thing that's been clear from the beginning of the hype wave: As with the iPhone, the iPad's success will depend on the software you can get for it. Fortunately, that's not likely to be a problem. Here's a list of free business apps for your own success short-list:

• Evernote -- Popular on the iPhone, the app works on the iPad as well. Store text, images, and sound recordings all as part of remembering what has happened in your life. It syncs to either a Mac or Windows machine.
• Dropbox -- Free cloud file storage is useful. Things get better when you can use the system with ease across Macs and Windows machines, as well as an iPad or iPhone. Keep your files handy, no matter where you originally created them.
• eTask Project for iPad -- If you manage complex or multiple projects and have never used project management software, it's time to give a package a try.
• KAYAK -- If you want cheap travel, Kayak is a great site, and the app gets you there without having to type a URL. It compares prices from Priceline, Expedia, Travelocity, Hotwire, and Airfare.com so you get the least expensive combinations. (I just learned that I overpaid by $30 for an upcoming flight.)
• SkyGrid -- This app uses an algorithm that measures information velocity, or how quickly things spread on the Internet, so you can find the hottest topics and trends. If you're in the media or marketing, this looks promising.
• Trapster -- Are you fodder for speeding tickets, especially when late for a meeting? Trapster warns you of speed traps, speed cameras at lights, police checkpoints, and "other wallet hazards."
• World Customs & Cultures -- Learn how to avoid some of the biggest social gaffes when traveling abroad or dealing with people from other countries.
• WebEx for iPad -- Virtual meetings let you trade frequent flier miles for productive and free time. WebEx from Cisco (CSCO) is one of the bigger names in the market. Attend a meeting while sitting on the beach? Yeah, there's an app for that.

The best thing is that if you try any of these and don't like them, you're not out a penny. Have fun with your new toy!