Why Software Consultants Sometimes Fail

Being a software consultant is kind of a weird conundrum. Why?Because although some of the wealthiest people in the World like Gates, Ballmer, Allen, and Ellison lead armies of software consultants, owning a software consultant business in and of itself is not a slam-dunk for profitability.Most owners of small software consultants businesses actually miss a HUGE point about business success that can really end up dooming their businesses… which is a shame, because it’s pretty easy to remedy.This fatal flaw you ask? Software consultant businesses obsess more about delivering great “code” or a great app than developing a great relationship with their clients.If you just want to develop software code and applications all day long your firm should really be in the business of being an independent...

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[TIPS] -webcollaborator.com

—---------------snip-------------- This website creates a new free and easy way to collaborate. Before Web Collaborator, to collaborate on a project meant passing papers back and forth, hours of painstaking corrections, hundreds of wasted pieces of paper, headaches, and plenty of coffee. Web Collaborator coordinates collaborations automatically, keeping backups of every revision ever made to the project, letting you see who made the changes, and allowing you to focus on the work instead of managing the work. Better yet, it is absolutely free for all uses. http://webcollaborator.com/ —------------------ &nb...

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Move Over, DVD... Here Comes HVD!

Just a few years ago, DVD players cost thousands of dollars and were the last word in sophisticated video technology. Today, DVDs are everywhere, players can cost as little as $30... and DVD's successors are already being planned.Sony is developing its Blu-ray technology, and Toshiba is leading the HD DVD group. But an even more advanced technology might trump them both. Holographic Versatile Disc (HVD) uses holographic technology to store vast amounts of data -- up to 60 times more than an ordinary DVD -- throughout layers of the disc. HVD discs are also touted as being highly shelf-stable, able to archive data for 50 years or longer.Manufacturers are planning to release a 200GB HVD system by the end of next year, and 1.6 terabytes are possible by 2010. A 300GB HVD disc can hold up to 26...

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BP Putting "Green" Money Where Its Mouth Is

You've likely seen the TV commercials from BP touting itself as a "green," environmentally conscious energy company. Now, though, it appears that BP is making a serious financial commitment to alternative, renewable energy.BP has announced plans to invest $1.8 billion in solar, wind, hydrogen and combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) power over the next three years. The company plans to bring a wind farm online in the US by 2007, and deploy CCGT units to be major contributors to the US power grid.Although alternative and renewable energy remains a fraction of BP's overall business (oil and gas still dominate), BP appears to recognize the urgency of developing such energy sources in light of increased global demand and possible exhaustion of oil and gas supplies. And because its competitors are...

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Ten Rules for Startups

Thinking about starting your own Web 2.0 company? If so -- and even if you're not -- you'll find Evan Williams' Ten Rules for Web Startups compelling reading. Williams is the co-founder of Pyra, the original parent company of Blogger, and current CEO of podcast site Odeo. All of his "rules" make sense, and though some may seem obvious, we all know of instances where they have been ignored, to the business' detriment. Williams also provides links to useful tools such as David Allen's Getting Things Done (GTD) workflow methodolo...

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"Spray-On Computers" Becoming a Reality

A UK-based group called the Speckled Computing Consortium is developing networks of tiny computers that could one day be sprayed on a surface to help make pervasive computing possible, and help monitor hard-to-reach surfaces.The group's goal is to create tiny computers, or "specks," about 1mm squared, that would network with each others, as well as with other devices. Currently, the smallest devices are 5mm squared. Each speck is a fully functioning processor with about 2KB memory, and each can be programmed to carry out a specific task.Among the potential uses for speckled computing are monitoring the structural integrity of aircraft surfaces, and in smart clothing that would allow physicians to monitor the condition of a patient. There's no word on when this technology will be deployed in...

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[TIPS] - online educational games

http://www.sheppardsoftware.com/web_games_menu.htm   Free online games to learn the Periodic tables, or geography, vocabulary, or trivia. Looks like fun - and if you don't tell them, they just might learn something, too. ...

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PC Repair Businesses: Stupid or Glutton for Punishment?

Do you own a PC repair business?If so, don’t take this the wrong way, but I’ve GOT to know are you STUPID or just a glutton for punishment?!?If you’ve read this far, you’re way too smart to be the first. So I’ve got to assume that both you and your PC repair business are into self-inflicted-pain.By now, you’re probably wondering, just what the heck is this guy talking about?I’ll tell you…I’m seeing WAY too many PC repair businesses lately that act like amateurs, when they need to run their business like the professionals that they aspire to be.After all, which do you like more, playing with motherboards and Registry keys?Or going out to schmooze some potential clients at a networking event?Which is more important to you and your PC repair business? Spending an hour each week reading PC Magazine?...

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The Washington Post Mixes It Up

Taking its RSS feeds to the next level -- and heralding one future direction for mainstream media -- the Washington Post is supporting creators of "mashup" sites that integrate Post feeds with other functionality. The Post Remix site is a blog that supports developers, whose projects include news quizzes and a world map that combines Post news feeds with Google Maps.Source: Web 2.0 Explo...

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Happy Cyber Monday!

Did you sleep in after Thanksgiving rather than deal with the insanity of Black Friday, even though you missed out on some bargains? Who can blame you? But for those of you who prefer the comfort of your home or office to combat zone of the local mall, this is your day -- Cyber Monday!With people returning to work (and their high-speed Internet connections) after the holiday weekend, the Monday after Thanksgiving has produced a spike in online shopping in recent years (don't worry, we won't tell the boss!).Online sales are expected to rise 24% over last year to hit $20 billion this season (not counting private sales such as those on eBay), so e-business is no small consideration to retailers, though it's still a fraction of the total holiday sales tally. Many retailers have special offers...

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When Gaming Hurts Relationships

Ladies, you might want to think twice before buying your boyfriend or husband that new Xbox 360 for Christmas. A growing body of anecdotal evidence suggests that some young men are becoming so preoccupied with video games that it is hurting their relationships.For some, playing video games mirrors the addictive behavior of drug and alcohol abuse, with players going on "binges," ignoring everything and everyone around them, and reporting symptoms of withdrawal when they try to quit. In response, female students at Kansas State University have started a support group, Girlfriends Against Video Games. One member, Megan Hoffman, says of her boyfriend's...

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Mobile Phones Fight Poverty

Here in the affluent West, we have come to take cell phones for granted, as pretty much everyone who wants one can now afford one. Yet they've changed our lives tremendously. But if they're a change agent here, mobile phones are truly revolutionary in the developing world.Telecoms such as Grameen Phone in Bangladesh have developed creative strategies for providing mobile phone access to some of the world's poorest people, such as selling people SIM cards and renting out handsets. And because mobile phone networks are easier to build than landline networks, phone access is being made available to remote regions that never had phone service before.For the first time, farmers, fishermen and other producers of goods in developing countries are able to obtain real-time market information, and more...

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Computer Consultants Partnering Strategies

Let’s face it… it is truly impossible for ANY computer consultant to know everything there is to know about anything and everything IT related. It’s truly impossible.Computer consultants are only human beings… they’re not gigabyte- or terabyte-sized hard drives. So in order for computer consultant to effectively and profitably deliver the COMPLETE small business IT solution, it becomes necessary to partner with out non-competing computer consultant and technology providers.Clients appreciate this too… because it shows a form of both modest and honesty. And after all, why should your small business IT clients pay on their nickel for you to train on things that you’re not an expert on?!?That’s why computer consultant partnering works out so well… because computer consultant partnering is a win-win-win...

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IT Consultancy Business Longevity Secrets

Do you own an IT consultancy business? Would you like to know some really important, PROVEN business longevity secrets?The key to longevity as an IT consultancy business is stability.All too often, IT consultancy businesses put themselves into very dangerous situations by eithera) having too much of their revenue coming from one or two high-concentrated sources (i.e. really big consultancy clients)b) not having a backlog of future projects that are just about ready to startc) not having any recurring revenue arrangements, such as support contractsWithout one or more of these issues solved, it becomes very difficult for an IT consultancy business to accurately forecast revenue, cash flow, and profits. And it becomes nearly impossible to make rational hiring decisionsBut now that you know this,...

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[TIPS] - more physics applets

Einstein's Legacy:  http://www.colorado.edu/physics/2000/applets_EL.html   There are about four pages worth of small applets here that help to explain microwaves, or xrays, lasers, or TV screens, etc. Most allow you to control the variables to see the effects of that change.   —----------------- And, on a personal note, I do hope that you have a warm and loving Thanksgiving....

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"Bottom 10" Worst Tech Gifts

With Black Friday only three days away, PC Magazine weighs in with its picks for the worst technology gifts this holiday season. Some, like the ROKR and the Oakley Thump sunglasses-cum-MP3-player, have been mentioned here previously. Each product made the list because it was, in the reviewers' opinion, overpriced, poor performing, simply a bad concept, or all those and more. The reviews also note what may be less expensive, more functional alternativ...

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Forensic Computer Consulting Isn't Just about Solving Crimes

If you own a forensic computer consulting business, you may be tempted to think that your company can survive solely based its technical capabilities to solve crimes.However, I’m here to warn all forensic computer consulting business owners that solid IT skills are not nearly enough to build a stable consulting business.To have a successful forensic computer consulting business, you need some stability and predictability… so you can zero-in on your client acquisition costs and make sound staffing decisions.Don’t let a crime be perpetrated against your forensic computer consulting firm.Make sure you know how to win over the best, steady, high-paying consulting clients in your area.Sign-up to listen to these free forensic computer consulting business tips.Submitted by Joshua Feinberg of the...

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Trendspotting Podcast

The Wall Street Journal, as part of its annual review of trends, has made a podcast about trendspotting available on its site. The podcast features an interview with Jim Breyer of Accel Partners, and focuses on trendspotting skills and tools. Unlike most WSJ content, you don't have to be a subscriber to list...

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[TIPS] - Music site

Having been a music teacher in a former life I can appreciate this site. So will your music teacher friends. http://www.teoria.com/reference/ Hear scales and chords, construct intervals, see mathmatical relationships, and much more. And, if you become a member for $20 you can actually download the entire site onto your computer.   Granted, you can't create your own music here, and you can't experiment much, but it's a nice site to have on ha...

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[TIPS] - nrich Math site - with LINK

DOH!!! See how flustered that made me? No link!!! <sigh> Here it is...   http://nrich.maths.org/public/index.php   From the site: —-------------snip---------- Welcome to another edition of the NRICH website, where our mathematical theme is Probability. We hope that you will discover the power of this month's interactive environment to simulate many trials, therefore making the process of obtaining data more manageable. —------------ Looks like it would be appropriate for middle to high school age students. The interface is a bit clunky (IMHO*) but the activities look very interesting - and fun.   (If anyone finds any "naughty numbers" - I .... I .... give up!)              :-)     * In My Humble Opinion...

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Fine Dining from the Assembly Line

With Thanksgiving approaching, traditional home cooking is on a lot of people's minds. It's one thing to pull out the stops for a special occasion... but who has time to cook like that on a regular basis nowadays?For families who are pressed for time yet refuse to settle for fast food or frozen dinners, "mass assembly retail kitchen outlets" offer a solution. Chains such as Chicago's Dinner By Design provide food and kitchen facilities for customers to prepare up to 12 family-sized meals in a single two-hour session. Customers can rediscover the joy of cooking without having to worry about the shopping, tedious preparation or the cleanup......

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A Mighty Pen

This holiday season's must-have toy is supposedly the Fly Pentop Computer from LeapFrog, essentially a giant ballpoint pen with an on-board computer. Designed for pre-teens, the Fly has interchangeable educational modules that allow it to read what is being written, provide audible feedback, and even play games and music.David Pogue of the New York Times provides some examples of what the Fly can do:Staggering possibilities await a pen that can read software right off the page as it moves, and the Fly package comes with a sparkling sampler. For example, as you tap countries on a world map, the pen pronounces their capitals or plays their national...

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Is Google Base a Killer App in the Making?

The recent beta launch of Google Base -- an XML/RSS classified advertising portal in the vein of Craigslist -- positions the Internet juggernaut to disrupt not just one business, but many.The most vulnerable victim is the newspaper industry, which has taken its share of lumps recently. Local papers, after all, derive as much as 80% of their income from classified ads. But they can't blame Google Base for their woes, as the Internet broke the business model for newspaper classifieds long ago. Rather, Google Base is a threat to the established Internet classified sites that have carved out niches for themselves. Some believe that Google Base could even pose a threat to other Internet giants such as eBay and Monster, which became killer apps themselves by allowing individuals to market products...

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$100 Oil: Not If, But When

Here in New Jersey, gas prices spiked up during Labor Day weekend, in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, to a peak of about $3.40 per gallon for regular unleaded. But prices have fallen ever since, and are now below $2 per gallon -- approximately where prices were this time last year.So the crisis is over, right? Hardly, say some oil industry analysts. At the beginning of the year, some warned of a "super-spike" that could push oil prices well above $100 per barrel. But as it happened, prices peaked at $71 per barrel after Katrina, and will likely continue to fall over the short term.However, we may be seeing a "perfect storm" of circumstances that could lead to oil shortages and sharp price increases over the long term:According to an estimate by Gold & Energy Advisor, a Florida-based energy...

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[TIPS] - Salariya Web Books

http://www.salariya.com/web_books/pages/web_books.html —-------snip---------------- Created by The Salariya Book Company, these innovative titles use a unique combination of information and humour to describe life in earlier times. Web users can interact with the characters by simply moving the cursor over them, to see their thoughts and comments as each story unfolds. The four Web Books described below are based on titles in the "You Wouldn't Want To Be.." series, which is published in the UK as "Danger Zone".-------------------------- Click the first link, "You Wouldn't Want to Be A Roman Gladiator...", then use the <Next> or <Previous> links on the sotry pages to follow them through. They really look like fun for the younger ones.   &nb...

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A Generation Gap in the Workplace

We've previously speculated on the impact that "Generation Y" employees will have on the workplace. Now we're starting to see the reality... which, in many cases, involves friction between young workers and their elders.Generation Y, a.k.a. millenials, are generally agreed to be the generation born between 1978 and 1989, comprising today's teens and twentysomethings. However, some demographers include younger children (born as recently as 2002) in this category.Independent, self-confident and self-expressive, Gen-Y workers are far different than their predecessors. They're smart, have no problem questioning authority, both expect and demand change, and truly believe the cliche that rules were meant to be broken. The first generation to grow up with the Internet, they take electronic collaboration...

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Own a Computer Training Business?

Does your computer training business constantly struggle to fill its classroom schedule, week after week? Would you like a relatively easy way to add some very high margin revenue to your bottom line?Then look no further than consulting opportunities with your existing computer training business customer base.Seriously, these folks already know, like and trust your computer training business.So why not take your relationship to the next level, and build something more long-term, more meaningful, and a heck of a lot more profitable?!?Discover how you can get steady consulting clients with more long-term stability and predictability for your computer training business.Posted on behalf of Joshua Feinberg of the Computer Consulting 101 Professional Kit (...

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[TIPS] - wiki ehow

From the site: —----------- What is eHow.com? eHow.com is the world's most widely read how to manual. Every month over 4 million people visit eHow to learn how to do something. With hundreds of thousands of pages of advice, eHow offers staff-written, reviewed and edited step-by-step solutions. Every eHow is clear, concise, and accurate. So whether you are learning how to tie a tie, build a deck, kiss on a date, train your dog to heel, ollie on a skateboard, lose weight, negotiate a raise, or even throw a curveball - eHow can help you.    http://wiki.ehow.com/Main-Page—------------------ Even if you don't use the site to learn how to tie a tie, for example, perhaps it'll give you an idea of how YOU can use a wiki with your classes. If you decide that you'd like to learn more about...

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[TIPS] - whyquit.com

Maybe you know some students who are experimenting with smoking. Maybe you know a friend or loved one who is  hooked. Maybe it's you. This site is for those people. Share it with your students. Maybe you'll convince one to quit, and wouldn't that be wonderful?   The Great American Smokeout is tomorrow, the 17th. Encourage the smokers you know to check out this page. And maybe you'll want to read this story to your class: http://whyquit.com/whyquit/joelcigfriend.html and ask them to guess who (or what) the friend is.    http://whyquit.com/ They say you'll always remember your aniversary (if you know what's good for you), your spouse's birthday (ditto), when a loved one passed away, and the day you quit smoking for good.   January 3, 1993 - the day *I* qu...

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Marines 1, Building 0

US Marines in Iraq have reportedly begun using a new generation of shoulder-held urban combat weapons that use thermobaric principles. When launched, the warhead ignites the air around it, producing a shock wave capable of leveling an entire building.The sheer destructive power of the NE ("novel explosive") weapons make them controversial, with critics citing the risk to surrounding noncombatants. Human rights groups took the Soviet Union to task for using thermobaric weapons in Afghanistan. Now, the Marines are remaining low-key about their NE warheads. However, supporters of the weapons claim that they are highly effective in extremely dangerous...

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Computer Services Business Secrets

Does your computer services business have enough steady, high-paying clients?If not, then listen up. Because what you’re about to learn about can make a massive difference in your effectiveness at finding the best, steady, high-paying computer services clients in your area.Why? Because most computer services businesses are looking for prospects, customers, and clients in ALL the wrong places.You see, for your computer services business to be as successful and CONSISTENLY profitable as possible, it’s not enough just to look for any old for prospects, customers, and clients.Your computer services business needs the RIGHT kinds of prospects, customers, and clients.If you’d like to learn how thousands of computer services firms, from all over the world, get more steady, high-paying consulting...

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Could Universal Broadband be a New Political Issue?

A 21st Century version of the "chicken in every pot" political rallying cry might be "broadband Internet in every home." House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) is unveiling a new Democratic "innovation agenda" that, among other things, aims to guarantee broadband Internet access for all Americans within five years.The idea is not new; during last year's presidential race, President Bush proposed universal broadband by 2007. The proposal didn't gain as much attention as it should have -- and Bush's plan had few specifics -- but with the President's sagging poll numbers in mind, Republicans may revisit it during next year's election if the Democrats appear to be gaining traction with the issue.Government support of technology can yield impressive dividends; without Uncle Sam's bankrolling,...

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Tomorrow's Taxi

Yellow taxi cabs are as much a New York City icon as the Empire State Building. Yet Parsons the New School for Design is hosting an exhibit called "Designing the Taxi: Rethinking New York City's Movable Public Space," that attempts to envision the taxi system of the future. The show includes improvements to cabs, such as more legible and intuitive rooftop lights, one-way windows for privacy, seats designed for better visibility, wireless Internet, monitors that display traffic conditions and note points of interest, electrical outlets for charging laptops and cell phones, and credit/debit card swipers. Designs for next-generation cabs are substantially...

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[TIPS] - How do educators use blogs and RSS? A Webquest

http://www.ettenborough.net/WOW2004/index.htm   Wanna learn more about Blogs and RSS? (Besides coming to my training in November?) Check out this webquest entitled, "How Do Educators Use Blogs and R...

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Cell Phone Knockoffs

As with any product, the newest and most sophisticated cell phone models are also the most expensive. Hence the market for knockoffs of popular cell phone models such as the Motorola RAZR and Samsung's Anycall. Such phones are generally made in China, use designs and even names that are remarkably similar to the original ("Samsumg Amycall"), and are substantially less expensive. So if you're planning to upgrade your phone -- and especially if you're offered a sweet deal -- be sure to read the fine print... on your phone as well as elsewhere!Source: Engad...

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Fast Robots

One obstacle faced by today's robots is that their "muscles" -- the devices that allow them to move and perform their tasks -- react 100 times slower than human muscles. To solve this problem, researchers at MIT are developing robotic "muscles" made from conductive polymers that can potentially respond 1,000 times faster than human muscles.No word on when these "bionic muscles" will enter production... but if and when they do, they will have a profound impact on robotics at all levels.Source: EurekAl...

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[TIPS] - KPL - Kids Programming Language

http://www.kidsprogramminglanguage.com/   This free program allows your bright elementary age students to learn some progrmaming in a safe, friendly environment. They can program their own games!!! I KNOW that you know a few kids who would just LOVE this. Check out the home page to see screenshots of the games this program is capable of making, then turn those bright (bored?) kids lose on it.   I'd LOVE to see some examples of their games, too. Please share them with ...

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Kids Living in "Connected Cocoons"

Back when I was growing up (the Stone Age), any teen who spend hour upon hour locked away in his room would have been considered extremely -- and perhaps dangerously -- antisocial. That's hardly the case anymore, as the average teen's room is now a hub of digital activity, and the portal through which he stays connected with his friends and personal interests.In trying to get a handle on its core audience of 16-to-24-year-olds, the music channel MTV has dubbed this practice "connected cocooning." While they physically might not be out and about as much as previous generations of teens, today's "MTV generation" can connect to more people than every before through the Internet and an array of devices. Today's teens can network with peers throughout the world, and have access to information...

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[TIPS] - SuprGlu

http://www.suprglu.com/ From the site:---------------------Do you already use services like del.icio.us, flickr, blogger, typepad, etc? SuprGlu is a new way to gather all your content from those sites. In a nutshell, SuprGlu:          gathers your content from popular webservices and publishes them in one convenient place.          presents your content with simple, great looking templates which you can customize.          is FREE to use! —----------- Don't know what any of this stuff is? Come to the training on the 22nd at 4:00 - Blogs. There's a VERY COOL world out there that is way beyond just your basic web pages. Come out to find out about ...

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McKiosk

After years of speculation, McDonald's will soon pilot the use of self-service kiosks in selected restaurants in Houston, Orlando and Denver. In a typical scenario, a customer places an order through the kiosk and pays with cash or a credit, debit or gift card. The order is sent directly to the kitchen, and the customer is given a receipt to collect his order. Throughout the transaction, the customer need never interact with a human.Aside from speeding up service, the kiosks, developed by NCR, can converse in 26 languages, display 3D images of selections, and even recommend certain items ("up-selling").The kiosks would also reduce long-term labor costs and head off an expected labor shortage, though McDonald's is quick to emphasize that affected staff would be re-deployed rather than downsized....

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Computer Consulting 101 Customer Reviews

Computer Consulting 101 Customer Reviews..."...very useful... excellent ideas... strategic little things that I would have probably never thought of. Very good stuff!""Joshua and Jennifer, Thank you for all you guys are doing. Much of the marketing information that I have gleaned from the Computer Consulting 101 Professional Kit has been very useful. We are continually reusing the excellent ideas you have presented with fairly good success. Many of the ideas you have presented were strategic little things that I would have probably never thought of. Very good stuff!"- Jason Harrison, Harrison Technology Consulting, Nashville, North Carolina......

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[TIPS] - learn to type - free

 http://www.senselang.com/Want to learn to touch type or perhaps just to learn to type a bit faster? This site has many lessons to try, or you can paste in your own text and practice on that. Straight forward easy.   It's free. (and fun for all ages)    ...

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On-the-Spot Flu Tests

Researchers at the University of Colorado have developed a chip capable of testing for 11 strains of influenza, including H5N1 (a.k.a. bird flu). Unlike current tests that can take days, this chip allows a physician to diagnose flu almost instantly.Analyses by the Centers for Disease Control have found the chip to be 90% accurate. However, the research team is working to make the chip more user-friendly. Such a device would be invaluable in the event of a flu epidemic, allowing patients to be diagnosed, treated with antiviral drugs, and -- if needed -- quarantined rapidly. It would be especially important for healthcare professionals serving rural and remote areas without access to lab services.Source: New York Ti...

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Print Your Own Organs

The University of Utal College of Pharmacy is developing "organ printing" technology that will allow healing tissue to be "printed" on "bio-paper" and "bio-ink" from a patient's own tissue. The result is a hydrogel that will allow a damaged organ to heal, and that may one day be an alternative to transplants."Think of taking a blood vessel — a cylindrical object — and trying to reconstruct it in 3D with two-dimensional slices," said U. Presidential Professor of Medicinal Chemistry Glenn D. Prestwich, who created the hydrogel. He likens the resulting slices to a "non-nutritious doughnut" with muscle cells on the outside and endothelial cells inside. To make the cylinder, those flat doughnut sections are literally printed, one thin layer of cells and hydrogel at a time, the platform moving...

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A Bad Year for Old Media

Coming as little surprise to those who follow new media, the Audit Bureau of Circulations, the organization that audits newspaper and magazine subscription numbers, reported Monday that the average weekday circulation of US newspapers fell by 2.6% between March and September of this year. The New York Times was one of the few papers whose circulation rose (slightly) in the past year, but on the whole, major US dailies lost readers. One of the hardest hit was the San Francisco Chronicle, whose circulation shrank by 16.4% in 2005.Newspaper readership has been shrinking steadily for decades, with television, shortened attention spans, 24-hour cable news, hectic lifestyles, the Internet and restrictions on telemarketing all blamed for its demise. But newspapers are not alone in their pain, as...

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Bill Gates Considers Web 2.0 Services a "Sea Change"

Some people may be dismissing Web 2.0 as hype, but not Bill Gates. In a letter to Microsoft's leadership, Gates warned that the shift to Internet-based services represented a major "sea change" that would require the company to "act quickly and decisively" to meet its competitors."This coming 'services wave' will be very disruptive," Gates wrote. "We have competitors who will seize on these approaches and challenge us - still, the opportunity to lead is very clear."Recently, Microsoft launched its "Live" initiative to port some of its flagship products to Internet platforms, putting it in direct competition with Google, Yahoo and others.In technology trends, Gates has a history of making sure Microsoft becomes the life of the party--or at least the center of attention--even after showing...

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FreeCharge Weza: Batteries Not Necessary

Freeplay Energy, a company that manufactures hand-charged radios and lights, now offers the FreeCharge Weza, a multipurpose electrical charger that is powered by a step treadle.Just step on the treadle, and you can create enough AC or DC energy to jump-start a car or boat, or charge an electronic device. Clearly, it's an ideal solution for emergency situations, both ordinary (car won't start in a desolate parking lot) and extraordinary (disaster relief, especially in developing regions). It's also compatible with solar panels and wind-powered turbines.But if you plan on adding the FreeCharge Weza to your holiday gift list, you'll have to take...

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[TIPS] - Fun Science Gallery (SAFE for all ages)

Here's a safe tip for today to replace the other one. :-(   http://www.funsci.com/texts/index_en.htm   What a cool place this is to find activities that you can do with your classes. Make your own paper, build a toy cable car, and... SO much more. If you teach science then stop in here for a lo...

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Low-Power Wireless Broadband

Could a wireless network be built with inexpensive access points that have a range of miles instead of feet, and that can run on long-lasting watch batteries?xG Technology is developing hardware for such a network, which is currently being piloted in Miami. The xG hardware operates on the 900MHz band and can send a signal up to an 18-mile radius. Single cycle modulation allows the access points to use much less power than conventional devices.The hardware still needs further testing and FCC approval, but technologies such as this suggest a solid future direction for wireless networks.Source: Minding the Pla...

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Computer Consulting 101 on SCORE List of Small Biz Power Links

Did you know that Computer Consulting 101 is listed on the SCORE List of Small Biz Power Links?In case you don’t know who SCORE is, here’s the skinny on SCORE and why Computer Consulting 101 is so proud to be listed on the SCORE List of Small Biz Power Links.From SCORE’s Web site page for the media:“SCORE “Counselors to America’s Small Business” is a nonprofit association dedicated to entrepreneur education and the formation, growth and success of small business nationwide. More than 10,500 volunteer counselors provide individual counseling and business workshops for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners. SCORE has assisted more than 7 million Americans with online and face-to-face small business counseling. The SCORE Association was formed in 1964.”To get access to the SCORE List...

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[TIPS] - playkidsgames.com

http://playkidsgames.com/   Games in Math, alphabet, vocabulary, memory, and geography. Even addition Pinball! My only concern is that there doesn't appear to be a way within the game to turn off the sound. You'll just have to mute your speakers. &nb...

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Video iPod as the New TV

Jeff Jarvis believes that the video iPod is not just a new gadget, but a media revolution. He notes that already, the video iPod is usurping the role long held by that other great, paradigm shifting media device, television, as advertisers are producing commericals for video iPods. Jarvis sums it up by saying:I say that what really needs to happen is for sponsors to add their commercials to the vlogs and shows I'm watching now. Ad agencies are whining about measurement. Well, wake up, fools! TV is exploding. People are watching TV online and on their iPods and you're not there with them. And if you start supporting this new form of programming, there will be more programming and more audience and more less scarcity of ad avails and lower prices for those ad avails and you'll be happy. So...

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[TIPS] - microscopy image library

http://education.denniskunkel.com/   from the site: The microscopy Image Library of science photographs shows a diversity of science images taken with light microscopes (LM) and electron microscopes (transmission electron microscope - TEM; scanning electron microscope - SEM). Search the image library for microscopy images from the following categories: Algae, Arachnids, Bacteria, Crystals, Fungi & Slime Molds, Insects, Invertebrates, Medical, Miscellaneous, Plants, Protozoa, Vertebrates, and Viruses. Use a Virtual SEM to find out what it is like to load and zoom-in on specimens at increasing magnifications with a scanning electron microscope. Find out why the Most Wanted Bugs are on our list.   Thanks to Sharon C for sharing this o...

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Technology's Role in the French Riots

The recent rioting in France appears to be getting a boost from mobile and Internet technology:In its early days, the rioting appeared to spread spontaneously, but law enforcement officials said it was also being abetted by exhortations on the Internet. Worse, said Patrick Hamon, the national police spokesman, "what we notice is that the bands of youths are, little by little, getting more organized" and are sending attack messages by mobile phone texts. Some sites on the Internet mourned the two teenagers; others issued insults to the police or warned that the uprisings would only give the anti-immigrant far right an opportunity.The use of technology may be resulting in less-decentralized disturbances that are harder to control. Whether and how the French authorities will respond to the rioters'...

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Scenarios for Energy Futures

The recent rise in energy costs -- and the impact those higher costs will have on economies and lifestyles across the board -- has focused renewed attention on scenario planning. It was Shell Oil who pioneered the use of scenario planning in the 1960s to forecast the disruptions in energy supplies that would occur in the next decade, helping it to plan its business models accordingly. Now, Shell has developed a new set of scenarios that envision a world grappling with energy shortages, higher costs and security concerns. Similarly, the UK-based Energy Saving Trust has created two scenarios for 2020: One envisions a bleak world of energy and water rationing, a rejection of modern conveniences, a real estate crisis due to flooding from global warming, and the collapse of suburbia. The other...

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Could the Web Be Built Today?

As the World Wide Web approaches its 15th birthday, Duke University law professor James Boyle ponders whether such an open set of communication protocols could be created today. Sadly, he thinks not.Technology isn't the issue; Boyle believes that today's corporate and government interests would be too quick to crush such an ungovernable platform. The only reason the Web gained traction in the early '90s was that, back then, no one in authority was paying attention:The web became hugely popular too quickly to control. The lawyers and policymakers and copyright holders were not there at the time of its conception. What would they have said, had they been? What would a web designed by the World Intellectual Property Organisation or the Disney Corporation have looked like? It would have looked...

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Computer Consulting 101 Ideas for Helping Your Customers Choose YOUR Firm

Need help explaining to potential customers, why they should hire YOUR computer consulting firm?Help frame the comparison in their minds by educating your prospects.Use these Computer Consulting 101 ideas for helping your potential customers (i.e. your future customers) choose your consulting firm.Computer Consulting 101 Hiring Tips (Part 1 of 2)By Joshua FeinbergMore Computer Consulting 101 Hiring Tips (Part 2 of 2)By Joshua Feinb...

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Porn for Pods

It's been said that pornography is often the catalyst for new media technology adoption. That tradition seems to be holding fast with the recent debut of video iPods. Producers of adult material are seeking out -- and finding -- an audience among video iPod owners.As of Oct. 31, Video iPod users have downloaded one million clips from iTunes, at an average cost of $1.99 per clip, since the video iPod debuted on Oct. 12. The most popular selections are music videos, TV episodes, and short films.This interest has not been lost on the adult entertainment industry, as the biggest names in adult video, including Playboy and Penthouse, have either launched or are preparing to launch video services in the video iPod format. From a purely financial perspective, the move would appear to be quite...

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[TIPS] - Free assistive technology

Thanks to Kurt for sharing this one. Here's what he said.... This may be of interest to some of your readers, maybe not. A FREE talking web browser for students with vision impairments... fun to see if your district or teacher web site is ADA or Section 504 compliant. http://www-306.ibm.com/able/solution_offerings/hpr.html <snip>IBM Home Page Reader brings the world of the Internet to users who are blind or have low vision. It is an award-winning, talking Web browser that uses the power of speech to aid users in exploring the World Wide W...

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[TIPS] - Earth and Moon Viewer

http//www.fourmilab.ch/earthview/vplanet.htmlRemember last year when I shared with you the nist site (http://www.nist.time.gov/ ) that showed the sun/dark lines on the planet and I encouraged you to folllow it weekly? Those of you who did (I *KNOW*) were glad you did, as it provided a great lesson for the kids.This site is similar, but with a LOT more things to do. Don't want to wait until March to see the equinox? Enter the date into the field and see it now. LOTS more to do with the moon, as well.Enj...

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Using Pervasive RFID to Predict Human Behavior

A Japanese consortium called the Tagged World Project has unveiled a prototype system for using RFID tags to continually monitor and ultimately predict a user's future behavior.The project tags every object in a given space; each tag captures data and adds it to an XML database. The user can then receive feedback through a PDA, such as "Don't forget to lock the door" if he leaves the room without touching his keys.In many instances (such as a hospital or nursing home), such an environment would be immeasurably helpful and could save lives. But in others, it could be annoying, invasive and just downright creepy.Source: RFID in Ja...

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In Search of Rosa Parks

The following post has nothing to do with futurism or technology. But it is timely, and it does illustrate the powerful nature of information and change. Today saw the funeral of Rosa Parks, whose refusal to give up her seat on a segregated bus sparked the civil rights movement that thrust Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. into the spotlight and led to many of the rights that Americans today take for granted. Today -- especially today -- she's a household name. But when I was an elementary school student back in the early 1970s, it was a different story.Our third-grade class (in an all-white school, it should be noted) was assigned to write a report...

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More Computer Consulting 101 Professional Kit Reviews and Opinions

Want to know what about computer consulting business owners are saying about the Computer Consulting 101 Professional Kit in their own personal reviews and opinions?"...it's turned a losing proposition into a serious winner!""Dear Joshua, The Computer Consulting 101 Professional Kit has turned my reseller/consulting business, with the emphasis on 'reseller', into much more of a consultative approach... where we actually get 'paid' to pick the products, which we then 'sell' to the customer... in addition to being 'paid' to develop and supply a service agreement, with even more revenue. The Computer Consulting 101 Professional Kit has turned a...

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