Worst Tech of 2006?

We've barely cleared the first quarter of this year, and already ZDNet has compiled its choices for the worst technologies of 2006, so far. Styling, functionality and originality (or lack thereof) are among the criteria considered. If nothing else, it's some fun Friday-afternoon eye can...

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Pervasive Computing's Impact on the Environment

As we move ever steadily toward a pervasive computing environment -- in which a variety of objects contain on-board interactive computers -- this article from the IEEE ponders what effect it could have on a sustainable environment. From increased energy demands for powering pervasive computers, to disposal issues, to exposure to non-ionizing radiation, to the psychological stress that may result from an "always on" networked environment, pervasive computing (if improperly developed and managed) is fraught with unintended consequences for the environment, personal health and emotional well-being.Source: Buckminster Fuller Instit...

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Web 2.0 = Hype 2.0?

Facebook, a social networking tool aimed at high school and college students, has made waves by demanding a $2 billion selling price. That's a price tag that's too rich for News Corp, which recently bought the similarly-themed MySpace and is still shopping for Web 2.0 technologies. Said Ross Levinsohn, president of Fox Interactive Media, "We're certainly not paying $2 billion for Facebook... If the price was right I'd be interested in it. It's a great site and I know the guys there well. But I don't know if they're up for sale." Indeed, there have been conflicting stories about Facebook's status. One report stated that Facebook turned down a $750 million buyout offer as too low, while others deny the company is for sale at all.Such reports are eerily reminiscent of those circulated during...

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Text the Vote

Election Day in the US is 7 months away, but already an experimental venture called TXTVoter is ramping up, with the goal of registering young voters at concerts and other events attracting teens and young adults this summer. The initiative is funded by grants from Pew, coordinated by Young Voter Strategies, and supported by Music for America.The idea is simple: At these venues, attendees will be given instructions for requesting voter registration materials via SMS. The materials will then be (quaintly) mailed to their homes. Come Election Day, participants will receive text-message reminders to vote. Several prominent bands, including Green Day and Death Cab for Cutie, have signed on to promote TXTVoter.It will be interesting to see what impact, if any, TXTVoter has on youth voter registration,...

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Small Business Networking: Improving Your Network

Growing your business has a lot to do with the effectiveness of your networking plans. These relationships are mutually beneficial and can bring you work and references for years. Here are the five top tips for improving your network.Tips for Improving Small Business Networking1. Set a Goal for New ContactsSetting goals and objectives each year will help your reach your potential. One goal should be making a specific number of contacts during the year. New members in your network will help you grow your business while you help them grow theirs.2. Utilize Business CardsBusiness cards are an absolute must for the busy small business owner. You should have professional cards with you at all times since you never know when you might bump into a new contact.3. Use Follow-up After Every Small Business...

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Computer Consulting: Working With Micro Businesses

Working with micro businesses is a great way to get your business started, but should you keep working with them during later stages of running your business? The answer really comes down to margins.Let's say you bill $2,000 a year for a small client and have to eat a $500 project – that's a big deal On the other hand, if you're billing a larger client $10,000 a year, then that $500 project isn't really a problem. Your profit margin should be the basis of your decision.Focus most of your time on developing larger, sweet spot clients, and as you grow, you will have no choice but to start letting some of the smaller projects go in order to meet the needs of your larger clients.Learn more about working with micro businesses and making the transfer from small clients to major clients in the article,...

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[TIPS] - proof of Einstein's genius

Einstein - Sure, they all SAY he was a genius, but now there's PROOF! http://home.comcast.net/~jgates808/gates.jpg   :-)   Want to make one of those for yourself? Go here: http://www.hetemeel.com/einsteinform.php   Enj...

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Creating a Small Business Technology Plan

As a small business owner, you probably already know that keeping abreast of the latest technologies is essential to staying at the head of the pack in your industry. In order to do that either you, in conjunction with your computer consulting company, need to come up with a technology plan.Your technology plan should outline the way you would like your business to run. How do information and orders move from your clients to you to your suppliers? Deciding the basics of how you will set up your company is essential for long-term success.In conjunction with your technology plan, you should create a strategic plan. Basically this outlines the steps you will take to get where you're going. Perhaps you'll buy new computers or enhance current programs. Whatever the steps, having a plan will help...

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Cisco Partners Worried About Attach-Rate Changes

Cisco has informed partners that it will be implementing new policies, including adding low-end products to its maintenance attach-rate program. Partners are concerned they may lose margin if they don't meet the right quotas.Cisco has been making a lot of changes including moving from a unit-based model to a dollar-based model, but that change went over well with partners since they were finally rewarded for selling more higher-dollar items.According to one partner, Pat Scheckel, vice president of the Cisco practice at Berbee Information Networks: "If Cisco [excludes those products] everything will be fine. If they don’t, it’s going to cause us a lot of pain because we sell a lot of those, and people don’t want to buy maintenance on them."Cisco plans on beginning the changes after the May...

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Millenials are Grounded, Family-Focused

Today's teens ("Millenials") are not the "slackers" that their Gen X elders were accused of being. Nor are they workaholics who worship the almighty dollar. Instead, their priorities revolve around family, security and enjoying life.The GenWorld Teen Study found that young people surveyed globally chose the following as their top values:Protecting family and loved onesFreedom in action and thoughtEnjoying lifeStable personal relationshipsHaving funTheir top five life expectations were to:Make my family proudBe financially secure ("Be rich" was much farther down on the scale)Travel the worldLead a stable lifeGet marriedMillenials seem to be taking the long view in life, foregoing immediate material rewards in search of stability and meaning. For this group, family and friends come first,...

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[TIPS] - Educational Fre*ware

No cost is good, right? Here are 5 pages of links to such educational programs that can either be downloaded or run online. From Math to typing, and from Art to Geography.  http://www.educational-freeware.c...

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Technology Assessment Jobs – Where to Find Your Clients

Technology assessment jobs are increasing in popularity – if you know where to find them. By keeping your eyes and ears open, you may hear the following people and/or groups looking for technology assessment services.1. Government - Although difficult to obtain, government projects are consistent and pay well. Keep in mind that all levels of government (city, state, federal) will likely be looking for contractors for this service.2. Large Businesses - One large business contract will lead to many others, and just one can give you thousands of dollars in revenue.3. Small Businesses - Although fees are lower here and contracts are smaller, these businesses will likely have ongoing work and can provide a valuable stepping stone to working with larger clients.4. Individuals - During the early...

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Computer Consulting: Inspiring Growth With Excellent Customer Service

Clients love computer consulting services that are proactive. Instead of waiting for something bad to happen to their clients, these consultants anticipate and ward off problems. For instance, if a client had a large bill because of a virus, then a proactive consultant might consider alternatives to help the company avoid similar problems in the future.By giving clients exactly what they need, often before they realize they need it, a computer consulting company is inspiring loyalty in their clients. If a client knows that you've done everything you can to help them prevent problems, they are more likely to look to you for issues in the future.Grow your business by offering proactive service instead of reactive service. Learn more about this philosophy of business in the article, Computer...

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IT Consulting Firms: Helping Business Grow

IT consulting firms typically start with just a few people. And while it can be exciting at first for those people getting into the business, a few years of running the show can become monotonous and exhausting, and the need to expand becomes imminent. MAKING BUSINESS GROWRunning a small business is a big job, particularly for just a few people who are required to do every aspect of the work. As the owner of small IT consulting firms, you need to plan to delegate some of this work to others in order to free up your time and allow more business. But you need to make sure your business is prepared to handle changes in workload before you begin.FINANCIAL STABILITYSometimes small IT consulting firms will have an available source of funding that will cover hiring new employees. Other times...

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Computer Reseller Business: The Components of Online Pricing

Many professionals today are enlisting the support of those in the computer reseller business, and the Internet has become an excellent tool for any computer reseller business looking to market products and services. Websites and online auctions help make products visible to people outside the computer reseller business’ immediate community. COMPONENTS OF INTERNET PRICINGInternet pricing involves several different factors: price; packaging; and delivery. A computer reseller business should take all these components into account when setting up an online auction or using a website. Reviewing other websites that are taking part in the same processes will help gauge the market. PRICEThose involved in the computer reseller business need to know the factors of their price. Items like shipping...

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[TIPS] - Federal Resources for Educational Excellence

Here's a list of no-cost (spam filters don't like the FRE* word) resources for educators. Very nice. From Art to Vocational Ed. Check it out   http://www.ed.gov/free/index.html - - - And thanks to Victoria P. for reminding me to remind YOU that the Peregrine falcon cam in downtown Harrisburg is back in action and mom has laid two eggs so far. Click the link for Broadband Only on this page: http://www.depweb.state.pa.us/dep/site/default.asp Nice camera action nowadays, t...

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Will Your Town Be Flooded When the Ice Caps Melt?

A mashup of Google Maps and elevation data from NASA illustrates how land masses around the world will flood if sea levels rise. The amount of sea level rise is adjustable.Using New Jersey as a starting point, if sea levels were to rise 10 meters, all of the state's coastal regions would be under water. At 12 meters, most of the southern part of the state (along with most of the Delmarva Peninsula) are swampland. At 14 meters (the highest level on the map), most of South and Northeast Philadelphia, as well as Upper Manhattan, Brooklyn, Newark, and large sections of Baltimore and Washington DC (including the Mall, the White House area, and Potomac Park) are inundated.These levels are not necessarily exaggerated, as some global warming models show sea levels rising as high as 20 fe...

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Web Clips are the New Reality TV

Increasingly, web video clips of the type found on iFilm and Channel101.com are turning up on TV. Aside from being slipped in on "wacky news" segments on network and cable news shows, funny, viral clips are now the stars of their own TV shows, like Bravo's Outrageous and Contagious and VH1's Web Junk 20. NBC is reportedly developing a similar prime time show hosted by Carson Daly, and Saturday Night Live is developing its own web content with its Digital Shorts, which are available via iTunes.Like reality TV, shows based on web clips are appealing to TV programmers because they're cheap to acquire and produce. Many are homemade, but others are (frequently embarrassing) outtakes of other TV shows and commercials -- either way, they are grainy, raw and honest. In a sense, putting web clips...

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Meteorologists Say Northeast Could See "Whopper" Hurricane

Meteorologists, who were spot-on in forecasting last year's harsh Atlantic hurricane season, are predicting that the 2006 season could deliver a "whopper" of a storm to the Northeastern US.Weather experts note that warmer temperatures in the Atlantic and cooler temperatures in the Pacific make conditions ripe for a hurricane to track more northward than usual. The patterns are similar to those present during the devastating "Long Island Express" of 1938, the region's worst recorded hurricane. That Category 5 storm (before today's storm-naming convention was established) produced wind gusts of 183 MPH and left 600 dead along the Long Island...

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A New Spin on the Video Travelogue

TurnHere is a beta site that provides "tours" of communities via short videos. Explore New York's famous East Village and Hell's Kitchen, party in South Beach, or take a "Sporanos Tour" of Northern New Jersey. Videos are organized by theme (art nouveau, foodie havens, party towns, surf's up) rather than by geography.What makes TurnHere unique is that its videos are produced by locals who know their communities intimately. Aspiring videographers who have stories to tell about their neighborhoods are encouraged to submit their work (and get paid for it, too!)Source: unmedia...

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Computer Business News: Webplus Releases Web+ v6.0

Top leased ecommerce solutions provider Webplus, Inc. launched its new Web+ v6.0 on March 24 for use by computer businesses and others. Web+ is a powerful and all-encompassing development language that can help program web-based client/server applications using simple processes instead of complex and lengthy CGI programs. Web+ v6.0 has the following improvements over previous Web+ releases:1. Better stability2. More speed3. New installers that make upgrading and installing simpler4. Virtual Hosting support that makes managing multiple websites simpler5. Application variables that help developers to maintain variables for the entire life of an application while still keeping them separate from other applications6. Better WAP support7. Internalization support8. Over 10 new tags Spokesperson...

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"Neuro-Chips" Add Silicon to Brain Cells

Enhancing the brain with computer chips is no longer solely in the realm of science fiction. A team of Italian researchers has developed a "neuro-chip" that can be implanted in the brain and interact directly with neurons.The 1-mm chip contains 16,000 transistors, and can both stimulate and receive information from surrounding brain cells. Currently, the technology is too immature and unstable for use in humans, but it might one day be used to correct neurological disorders such as epilepsy and Parkinson's disease. In the shorter term, the chip could be used to help test the effects of new drugs.Source: LiveScience....

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Solution Providers Praise New AMD Commercial Product

Solutions providers are singing the praises of the new commercial channel program from Advanced Micro Devices (AMD). They state that one of the most substantial benefits of this channel program is displacing Dell in contract bids.Experts state that once AMD can prove to offer better technology than Intel, Dell will be locked out of the market. Dell currently uses Intel CPU’s only in its products, but will be able to use AMD-based systems once plans to buy Alienware go through. Chad Williams, manager of the public sector at Matrix Integration used information about AMD’s dual-core processors in order to take out Dell in a $400,000 bid to help provide a community college technology system with new servers running 64-bit applications. He hopes that by integrating these new products into a...

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Delivering Superior Customer Value with AMD

According to today's announcement by AMD, more than 500 VARs worldwide have been added to the AMD Commercial Systems Channel Program. Their AMD64 processor-based systems are now available all over the world through the VARs they have recruited since opening the program in October 2005."By embracing AMD64 technology, channel partners get a clear benefit, undisputed differentiation from their competitors and a stronger value proposition with their offerings," said Kevin Knox, vice president, Commercial Business, AMD. "This can lead to a positive impact to their bottom lines and a winning solution for end-customers who are able to tap leading-edge performance-per-watt and native dual-core computing."VARs love the program and the company is listening to their feedback to make products and services...

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Open-Source SOA Stack Presented by LogicBlaze

LogicBlaze is a young company with big dreams. They are selling their open-source Fuse stack that combines the Apache database, messaging, orchestration and enterprise service bus (ESB) technologies. By removing the licensing fee, their product will be cheaper and more efficient.Current customers are extremely excited about the possibilities of LogicBlaze's Fuse stack. These companies are finally able to get everything they need without paying an arm and a leg. LogicBlaze plans to work closely with VARs and ISVs to get their stack on the market.According to backer, Damarillo: "The key advantage of open source is rapid market adoption. The beauty of it is that by the time you build a company around it, the technology has already matured."Learn more about LogicBlaze's new open-source SOA stack...

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The Disruptive Nature of Social Computing

Social networks and software are all the rage these days. But do they really have the potential to disrupt organizations?Absolutely, says Terry Heaton, citing a Forrester report that confirms what many of those who study social networking have believed for some time: that social computing is shifting innovation and development from top-down to bottom-up, using organic networks and the "wisdom of crowds" to develop opinion and shape product and service demand.Combining location awareness with social networking could be the next killer app. Nova Spivack suggests several such uses, some of which are already in use, including the ability to physically...

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Permanent Moon Base By 2020?

NASA is planning to develop a Moon base by 2020 to serve as a way-station for missions to Mars... though with competing priorities and limited budgets, that timetable may be optimistic.Building a permanent base will be an enormous undertaking, considering not only the hostile lunar environment, but the need to develop whole new technologies to build and power the colony, establish a supply chain, and learn how to deal with the health and psychological implications of life on the Moon.Some observers believe that the impetus for a Moon colony goes beyond the scientific. Just as the Apollo missions to the Moon were part of a space race between...

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Internet, Country Style

Getting a high-speed Internet connection in a major metropolitan area is hardly a problem these days. But outside the big cities, it's another story. Cable and DSL connectivity is not available to as many as 15 million households in rural communities in the US. And there, Hughes Communications sees a business opportunity.Hughes, which primarily manages corporate satellite networks, will initially focus its Internet offerings on small businesses in rural communities that need Internet connectivity, and extend its service to residential consumers. However, Hughes' service will only appeal to those without any other broadband options, as it will be more expensive than cable or DSL ($60/month vs. $15-40/month).Source: Washington P...

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"Talkative" Smart Items

Call it "RFID 2.0" if you will, but even as RFID remains an emerging technology, the European Union is forging ahead with a service-oriented architecture that will allow "smart items" to communicate not just with a central reader, but with each other.The Collaborative Business Items (CoBIs) project has been in development since 2004, and combines sensing and short-range wireless technologies to create a peer-to-peer network to observe subtle changes in the items' environment, and feed that information back to a central system.The result would be to transform inventory items into individual nodes. The resulting self-aware network could detect unsafe conditions such as overloads or the presence of dangerous substances, prevent theft and loss, and be incorporated into smart clothing -- all presumably...

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Worms + Pigs = Heart-Healthy Pork

Imagine a meat that's not only low in fat, but that is actually good for your heart. That's what geneticists may have created by adding DNA from the roundworm C. elegans to pigs. The genetically modified pigs yield meat containing omega-3 fatty acids, which are thought to prevent heart disease, depression and Alzheimer's disease.This is not the first effort to genetically alter the fat content of animal meat, and it's a long way from appearing in your local grocer or deli. “We understand that this research is in the very early stages,” FDA spokeswoman Rae Jones said. “This technology will not likely reach meat counters for many years.” Even if the technology were market-ready today, FDA approval alone could take a decade or longer. Plus, consumers would have to get past the idea of pork...

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IT Consultant Image: Are You Professional?

As an IT consultant, your jobs will be as variable as your client’s attitudes and expectations. Your customers’ observations about your level of professionalism will have a profound impact on your career. A successful IT consultant has strong ethical standards, care for his personal appearance and conduct and will present this image clearly in printed materials. ETHICSAs an IT consultant, you have to be true to your values, and this means being honest and up-front with your clients. You need to finish projects in a timely manner and stand behind your work in order to be perceived as professional. Your personality should ideally match that of your clients. If you like to work in informal settings and your client has a very formal company atmosphere, you might run into long-term projects....

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IT Service Contracts: Essential Recurring Revenue

Professional companies need consultants that offer IT service contracts, not simply those that handle emergencies on an as-needed basis. If you don’t offer on-going IT service contracts, you end up with either too many people calling you, or not enough. IT service contracts allow your clients to get the most out of their IT investments because it helps them implement long-term fixes and plan for the future. They can also make your life easier by providing a schedule and a plan for dealing with the needs of your customers and bring you a source of dependable revenue.RECURRING REVENUE The best companies will request IT service contracts to handle their many needs. Your success or failure in the future will depend upon the service you provide through these contracts and will in turn determine...

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Coffee is Hotter than Ever

Over the past decade, sales of coffee worldwide have more than doubled, from $30 billion in 1996 to $70 billion today. Give credit to the marketing power of Starbucks... as well as our hectic lifestyles that deprive us of sleep and require constant caffeine fixes. Recent research documenting health benefits of coffee haven't hurt either.Now, beverage giant Coca-Cola is getting in on the act, with an array of patents and registered trademarks for to-be-released coffee products as well as a coffee-flavored cola called "Coca-Cola Blak." McDonald's is likewise trying to attract discriminating coffee drinkers with premium roasts.Growing along with coffee is the popularity of coffee houses -- so great that coffee houses have begun to replace the legendary pubs along London's Fleet Street. Although...

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Computer Consulting: 3 Questions To Ask Your Clients

1. “How Can We Improve the Level of Service That We Provide Your Company?”You should ask this question at least twice a year. Your clients will likely always have suggestions for you. From friendly reminders to more advanced services, your clients may end up needing more than you first expected. Thus, you may find that this little question can provide a lot of revenue throughout the years.2. “Is There Anything Else IT-related That Your Company Needs Help With?”You should be asking this question often as well. Perhaps they've been meaning to ask you about certain issues, but they constantly forget to ask while you're there. By asking this question you are likely to get even more business from good clients.3. “Do You Know Anyone Else Such as Business Associates, Friends, Family Members in the...

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Protecting Your Investment With PC Support Contracts

You invest thousands of dollars into your PCs every year and store valuable, and often irreplaceable, data on them, so why would you not take the utmost precautions to protect this valuable investment?The Best ServiceBy obtaining a PC support contract from a reputable company, you can be assured that you will receive the best service available. The technicians will fix your computer now and prevent more problems down the road.Accreditation and ExperienceThe two most important factors in choosing a computer consulting company is their accreditation and experience. Technicians should have certificates stating that they do have training in the area, and the company should have a proven track record of satisfied clients with whom you can talk.To learn more about choosing the best company for a...

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[TIPS] - Google Earth Visual Guides

http://www.gearthblog.com/blog/archives/2006/03/google_earth_vi.html Here is a free great printable guide for Google Earth. Two sided. Check it out. Unleash the power of google ear...

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Solution Providers Note Potential Problems Caused by New Intel Macs

According to solution providers and other experts, Apple’s endeavors to change from PowerPC format to Intel-based Macs could make them more vulnerable to cross-platform attacks and other issues.OS X offers features that make it susceptible to malware, and the Intel-based Mac computers may be even more at risk for infection than PowerPC’s. Security researcher Kevin Finisterre created three recent versions of InqTana, a worm that spreads through a hole in the Bluetooth aspect of OS X.Finisterre and other solution providers believe that in general people will be more comfortable using the Intel processors than a PowerPC, and that the simplicity of the Intel processors makes users more trusting and exploratory, and therefore makes it simpler for hackers to create problems. He states that many...

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Computer Consulting: Microsoft Finds Yet Another Bug in New Explorer

Last Wednesday, Microsoft Corporation found the second bug in only two days in its new version of the Internet Explorer (IE) program. The company this time promised to patch the zero-day bug as soon as possible.According to both vulnerability tracker Secunia and Symantec reported that the problem was the result of an error in IE’s processing of the JavaScript method call “createTextRange ().” Hackers that used the bug to their advantage could get IE to remotely run bad code or crash the user’s browser entirely.Lead security program manager at the Microsoft Security Response (MSRC) Center blog Lennart Wistrand said that the issue has been confirmed and the proper authorities have been advised and are in the process of creating a solution. On Tuesday, the MSRC confirmed that another bug in...

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How to Plan for IT Emergencies

IT emergencies are inevitabilities in today’s technological world. Handling them will be critical to your IT business and maintaining a strong and loyal customer base. You have to achieve a delicate staff balance that allows you to meet the needs of existing clients and gain new ones.DON’T OVERSCHEDULEFor technical people that do not have sales or management tasks, you want to schedule at 75 percent capacity. This means that 25 percent is left open for non-billable projects, IT emergencies and new business. You will encounter times, even when you leave room, when you still can’t handle every client without calling in all available resources. This is the time when you need to pull everyone together to handle enough IT emergencies and focus on individual customers. Standardizing will pay...

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Computer Repair Franchises: Buying an Existing Franchise

Existing computer repair franchises are typically available immediately and are a good option for professionals looking to start a new business in the computer industry. Before deciding to buy a completely new franchise or an existing computer repair franchise, as a prospective business owner you must learn about all the issues involved in buying existing franchises so you don’t risk being surprised by the unexpected down the line. ADVANTAGES OF EXISTING COMPUTER REPAIR FRANCHISESComputer repair franchises already in existence already have an established performance history. Because of this, you don’t have to spend precious time evaluating business potential and can focus on looking at actual earnings. The franchises you want to buy will have a good reputation in their communities and already...

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Why Use Subcontractors?

As a small consulting firm, you can't afford to pay a high salary to someone with five certifications. Instead, you need to see what your in-house techs can do, and then subcontract people in other areas to supplement your techs.You may also want to use subcontracting work in just the opposite way. Your employees are likely to become bored if they simply have to fix printers or work on Quickbooks all day. Instead, you can contract out the junior work to someone else.Subcontracting can help you deal with the finances of growing your computer consulting business while reducing boredom and competition among your techs. Find out more about the advantages of subcontracting in the article, Subcontracting: Why Enter These Relationships? (link above).Added by Computer Consulting 1...

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Network Service Contracts Provide Virus Removal Solutions

Despite the advances in software that protects against viruses, the truth is that creators of viruses always seem to be one step ahead. Thus, virus removal will be a major part of any computer consultants job for a long time to come.Knowing how to best serve your customers is key in providing network service contracts. Customers want you to know exactly what you're doing, and they want to know that you'll respond quickly to their needs.Finally, efficiency and customer service are the primary parts of your business. Customers want quick, inexpensive solutions whenever possible and they want the best customer service. These things, combined with your expertise, will help you become a key figure in your community's fight against computer viruses. Learn more in the full article (link above).Posted...

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[TIPS] - ajaxwrite (too cool to wait until next week)

http://www.ajaxwrite.com/ This one was too cool to wait. Ajax (not the foaming cleanser) is VERY H-O-T stuff. Here is an ajax-based word processing program that looks just like MS Word. It opens in 6 seconds. Something to think about... While we were busy playing with your basic web pages (or writing web pages with Frontpage or Dreamweaver, etc), and installing Microsoft Office on out desktop machines, the world has been busy moving things online. I've sent you several sites in the past as examples. But, I want to make sure that you know that this isn't just a passing fad. Watch the web closely and watch as it transforms itself from a Medium to a Platform. You'll be able (actually you can NOW) to access all your files online- whether or not we think it's a good idea. AND, things are being...

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[TIPS] - juicy geography for Google Earth

Got Google Earth? What a fun way to study geography. http://www.juicygeography.co.uk/googleearth.htm   - - - and since I didn't get to send out a tip yesterday, here's a bonus - - -   http://www.gearthblog.com/blog/archives/2006/03/us_government_p.html   And here the Sierra Club uses Google Earth to show the land that the Fed government is selling off. (Hmmm.... I wonder if it'll stay protected. Hmm...

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"MIT Technology Review" 10 Emerging Technologies

This special report on top emerging techologies from MIT Technology Review is not your average list. Sure, it contains some familiar technologies (nanomedicine, universal ID), but it also boasts what might be some new terms, including:Epigenetics, or early cancer detection through measuring subtle changes in DNADiffusion tensor imaging, a new way to image and understand brain disordersComparative interactomics, or developing new medicines based on the body's molecular interactionsCognitive radio, a technique allowing wireless devices to negotiate for space on the crowded radio spect...

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Firstlogic Partnering With New Media Technologies

Firstlogic, one of the leading of enterprise data quality solutions, is teaming up with New Media Technologies, a comprehensive consulting firm. The company's partnership will benefit many financial services companies.Financial services companies will be able to analyze and retain data more efficiently so that they can know their customers and provide the appropriate solutions. They will also be able to better meet compliance standards with this new technology.According to Kathy Gibson, sales manager for New Media Technologies: "Our services help banks, brokerages, securities firms and high-profile investment companies to achieve three key goals: savings, flexibility and integrity in the management of their customer communications. "Data quality is required to achieve these goals and to help...

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Windows Not Shaken By Delay

Yesterday, Microsoft announced that their Vista program would be delayed until 2007 due to a certain lack of "people friendliness." Although some people began second-guessing Microsoft, most people are just taking it in stride.Microsoft claimed to only need a few extra weeks but is actually taking a significantly longer time. Many VARs were surprised to see Microsoft announcing yet another delay, but all agree that they would rather sell a completed product than only a second-rate product.According to the article (link above), "Some VARs speculate that Microsoft has purposely delayed the consumer versions out of fear that the majority of consumers buying new PCs for Christmas would not be willing to spend close to $1,000 for a system that could run Vista with good performance. The company...

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"Microsatellites" May Point to NASA's Future

Early this morning, NASA launched three 55-pound "microsatellites" into orbit using not a traditional ground-based rocket, but a Pegasus missile strapped to the belly of a Lockheed L-1011 jet airplane. At 39,000 feet, the missile was released from the plane's belly and fired its engine to fly 10 miles into Earth orbit.The microsatellites are part of NASA's New Millenium Program, designed to test new technologies for future space missions; these particular satellites will measure the Earth's magnetic field from different points. Part of the project's outcome may be that this type of a launch -- taking a page out of the playbook of private space...

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40 Pct. of Amazon Rainforest Could Vanish by 2050

Ranching, logging and farming, while profitable ventures for the South American economy, have been eroding the Amazon rainforest for years. A report in Nature estimates that up to 40% of the rainforest could disappear within 45 years if development goes unchecked.Britaldo Soares-Filho, of the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais in Brazil, ran computer models simulating the effects of agricultural and industrial encroachment on virgin forests in three different scenarios. In the worst case, up to 777,000 square miles of forest could be lost by 2050, threatening the continent's ecosystem and endangering 100 native plant and animal species. Best-case scenarios, though, show that reduction could be minimized through land preservation and controlled growth.The Amazon rainforest is important...

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Turning Urinals into Video Games

In today's entertainment-driven society, everything can be made into a form of recreation. And I do mean everything...Consider the video game urinal developed by Marcel Neundörfer. While a man is using a rest room, he can play a game by, uh, taking care of business:Recessed into a urinal is a pressure-sensitive display screen. When the guest uses it, he triggers an interactive game, producing images and sound.Hey, what the heck... most guys would get a kick out of it! But the device arguably has some practical advantages as well:The reduced size of the “target” improves restroom hygiene and saves on cleanings costs (like the “fly in the urinal” at Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport). It also makes a trip to the urinal “fun and games” – more than just a necessary nuisance. The design also has...

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Acceptance of Gay/Lesbian Lifestyle Increasing

Americans are increasingly accepting of homosexuality, according to recent findings by the Pew Research Center for the People and the Press. Opposition to such divisive issues as gay marriage has fallen considerably in the past couple of years, and a majority (60%) favor allowing gays and lesbians to serve in the military. Support for gay and lesbian couples adopting children is now split evenly, whereas a clear majority opposed it in 1999.The trend toward greater acceptance cuts across most all major demographic groups, with white evangelical Protestants being the primary excepti...

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Bacteria-Powered Nanotech

What better power source for nano-scale robots than something microscopic? Researchers at Rice University and the University of Southern California are experimenting with a strain of bacteria that, like a miniscule electric eel, generates its own electricity.Shewanella oneidensis eats metal (mmmm...), and excretes electrons stripped from the metal in the form of electricity. Theoretically, these organisms could be built into a battery to provide a long-lasting charge, powering a device that is either extremely small, requires an exceptionally long-lasting power source, or both.Using organisms as an energy source is a burgeoning field. Indeed, no less a figure than Dr. Craig Venter, the scientist who first mapped the human genome, is behind a startup in this area.Source: C...

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Windows Vista Delayed Until 2007

If you were planning to ask Santa for a new Windows Vista-powered PC this coming Christmas, you'll have to take a raincheck. Microsoft is delaying the release of its next-generation operating system until January 2007.Some Vista versions for business will be released this year, but the consumer flavors won't make their appearance until after the 2006 holiday season -- a serious problem for PC manufacturers counting on a boost from holiday sales. However, the delay might be beneficial in the long run, as Microsoft will reportedly use the extra time to tighten security features.Source: CNN....

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Computing 2020

Nature has posted a series of essays on the future of computing, covering such possibilities as quantum computing, pervasive environment and computing ecosystems, robotics, and artificial intelligence. Essays are available in both HTML and PDF forma...

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Are You Ready To Grow Your On-Site Computer Repair Business?

When you are considering whether it is time to grow your on-site computer repair business, there are several factors that you should consider. Let's go over the three most important to making this decision.1. Ability to DelegateDelegation can be much more difficult than it seems at first. You need to carefully evaluate whether you can give an assignment to another technician and leave him or her alone to complete it.2. Financial StabilityAdding employees will add extra financial responsibility. You must be able to send out paychecks on time, every time. Many employees will also except to receive health insurance and other benefits (paid vacation, etc.).3. Reliable EmployeesFinding reliable employees can be tough in this business. Most employers give newcomers a trial period and other some...

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Network Service Contracts Increase In Popularity

With more companies creating advanced networking systems (including wireless systems) and with the increased risk of identity and data theft, network service contracts have greatly increased in popularity recently.Choosing Your ConsultantCredentials are very important when choosing a consultant. You may not always know what they mean but a quick Google search will fix that, or you could just ask - an honest consultant will tell you exactly what you need to know. Also, choose a company with a great track record that can be proven through references from other clients.If You Are a ConsultantIf you are one of the consultants who deliver high quality services to clients honestly, we thank you. You are giving computer consultants a good name all over the world. Keep up the good work!Added by Computer...

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[TIPS] - Podcast directory for educators

Looking for some podcasting examples from school aged children? Check this site. I clicked the School podcasts link on the left and then chose "the age of 11" and was given a nice page of links. They play with real player on my machine.   http://recap.ltd.uk/podcasting/   Want to hear some local podcasts? Chris H at WSSD has just started and his classes have two podcasts. Find them here: http://www.wssd.k12.pa.us/webpages/CHyde/   I think Chris has plans to have his kids read their stories in their podcast, eventually. (Remember that tip from a while back?)[The last sub page on the left is "Podcast Page" - the directions are there (all you need is iTunes).] &nb...

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Blogging Computers in Libraries 2006

This week I'm in Washington, DC attending and speaking at the annual Computers in Libraries conference. What's this have to do with futurism and emerging technology, you might ask? Plenty!The three-day conference is entirely focused on advanced digital technology. Although it's designed for those involved in library sciences, almost anyone can find something useful here and learn something new.This morning saw excellent presentations by the keynote speaker, Chris Sherman of SearchEngineWatch, as well as a talk about innovation and Millenials by Jill Hurst-Wahl of Hurst Associates, Ltd. (who is also blogging the conference and will post info on her presentation). I also attended a presentation about Ajax and open source web tools. Afternoon presentations included an overview of the Grokker...

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[TIPS] - the missing link

http://www.newseum.org/todaysfrontpages/flash/   Thanks to the dozens of people ... OK... it was just one... who wrote back to tell me that I didn't paste my link on the second part of yesterday's tip. I HATE when that happens!   This is the newspaper site that ... well, check it o...

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Packaging IT Service Agreements

You need to think about the specifics when packaging your IT service agreements. You need to think about whether you will offer them at a fixed price or base them on a retainer or a pre-paid block of time. Fixed-price IT service agreements can be challenging because you have to predict the needs of your clients, and therefore most small business computer consultants will not have the skill or ability to accomplish this. FACTORS OF PACKAGINGThe following are important factors to consider when packaging your IT service agreements:1. What real benefits can you offer?2. What can you give clients that will make signing the agreements more attractive?3. What will make prospects want to sign IT service agreements without a second thought?BENEFITSThe key to answering the questions above lies in...

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Computer Franchises: Preparing for a Franchise Expo

You can find computer franchises by going to franchise expositions, but you have to prepare for them in order to minimize being overwhelmed by the options and narrow down your search. Since exhibitors go to these expos in order to sell their franchise, you need to prepare to know exactly how to find a franchise that will fit your needs and abilities. Attending a franchise exposition is a fantastic method by which to familiarize yourself with the options available to you.YOUR MAXIMUM INVESTMENTThe first bit of preparation involved figuring out how much you can invest so when you get there you know what computer franchises are even within your realm of possibilities. You will know not to waste precious time talking to a sales person if his franchise fee is outside your budget and will be...

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Job Market Rapidly Becoming a "Seller's Market"

The Herman Group, a futurist-oriented HR consultancy oft-quoted here, has been forecasting a fundamental change to the global labor market for several years. Now, it believes that the US alone will face an employee deficit of 10 million by 2010.In 2004, in our Red Alert Paper, we reported that the employment market was shifting from a buyer's market to a seller's market. Now, employee turnover is increasing even faster, as talented employees seek better job opportunities. The phenomenon is not limited to the United States or North America. We see these conditions developing at an alarming pace in developed---and some developing---countries around the world. This global shortage of skilled workers---educated and trained to perform the work of today and tomorrow---will affect everyone.The group...

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17 Free Ways to Speed Up Your Network

Generally speaking, new clients don't want to pay a fortune on new hardware to speed up their network. Instead, you can make all the difference in the world for them in ways that are relatively inexpensive on the product side so that they won't feel that you are just taking their money.Phil Britt has created a list of 17 things that you can do to speed up a network with little expense. Using his suggestions, most of which you should already know, can help you create a great relationship with a new client.You may also want to use a similar tool in your marketing. Perhaps you could give some free tips in exchange for someone contacting you. It's a perfect direct mail postcard type of ad. Learn more about speeding up your clients' networks in the full article (link above).Posted by Joshua Fe...

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Scalix Enhances Support for Key Novell Infrastructure

Scalix announced that their software is now available for use with Novell's SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 9, Novell eDirectory and Novell Evolution. Novell resellers helping clients transition to Linux pushed for the change and the company listened to their suggestions.Roger Levy, vice president and general manager of Open Platform Solutions for Novell had this to say about Scalix's move: "Novell is committed to helping customers achieve an open, secure and cost-effective IT environment, and Linux is an important lever for getting there. Scalix enhanced support for Novell enables customers to deploy additional Novell Linux server and client products to achieve their desired computing environment."With enhanced support and a better working structure, Scalix has provided resellers and consumers...

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"Fast Company" List of "Jetsons Moments"

The technology business magazine Fast Company has a list of what it considers the most interesting and promising emerging technologies, from blimps and gliders used as portable wirless broadband antennas, to washing machines that use negative ions in place of water and detergent, to scented plastics, to "galvanic vestibular stimulation" (delivering a light electrical charge to the small hairs of the inner ear to control equilibrium). A slideshow is also availab...

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Computer Consulting News: "Botnets" Provide New Issues for Wireless Users

In a world full of wireless networks and wireless phones, hackers are finding new ways to attack technology users with virus-like botnets that spread through text messages sent on smartphones, giving computer consulting firms yet more work to do with virus protection. This robotic network sends a text message to a user’s smart phone; thinking it is from a friend, the user opens the message and it looks through the phone system for sensitive information like credit card numbers, bank account statements and passwords.Computer criminals are using botnets to extend violations to the world of text messaging, adding to a slue of other problems that have developed with the smartphone technology, almost faster than computer consulting firms and phone manufacturers can find solutions. Researchers...

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Computer Business Oracle Enjoys Profit on New Licenses

Computer business Oracle revealed a higher profit than ever before, attributed to an increased demand for new software licenses and database software accompanied by a greater European presence.The fiscal period ended February 28, and the business software maker reported a third-quarter net income of $765 million, 14 cents per share up from the prior net income of $540 million, 10 cents per share a year ago. Revenue also rose from $2.95 billion to $3.47 billion. Oracle posted a per-share profit of 19 cents, excluding items, which was up from Wall Street estimates put together by Reuters earlier stating a per-share profit of 18 cents. Oracle has spent nearly $19 billion buying competitors in an attempt to match some of Germany’s biggest rivals, namely SAP and get a larger slice of the market...

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[TIPS] - Google Earth Basics - and a cool news site

http://www.gearthblog.com/basics.html Lots of good stuff here including 3-d buildings, "Tour" mode, using GE offline, and much more. Return to the home page of that site (remove everything after the .com) and you'll be able to subscribe to this blog to be notified when new posts are added. - - - Not "into" GE? Try this tip, then. Would you like the read newspapers from around the country? Around the world? This one is quite interesting. Hover over the dots to see a sample image of the newspaper for that location appear on the right. Click the dot top open it in its own window. That window also has links back to the home website for that paper. Zoom in or out, move the map around, and change countries. Very cool!http://www.newseum.org/todaysfrontpages/flash/ See if you can find The Patriot...

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Space Tourism as Early as 2007

As many as a dozen space tourism startup companies are developing space-plane technology that could take paying customers into suborbital space as early as the end of next year.Outfits such as Virgin Galactic, Space Adventures and PlanetSpace are lining up both craft and ground facilities with the expectation that plenty of civilians will be willing to pay from $100,000 to $250,000 for a two-hour flight and approximately five minutes of weightlessness (a bargain compared to the millions that space tourists currently pay). Rocketplane Kistler, a firm headed by American businessman George French, is aiming to be the first out of the gate, preparing to take commercial passengers into space by the summer of 2007. Most of its competitors are shooting for 2008 or 2009 startup dates.Source: C...

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[TIPS] - the nist global clock - revisited

Ah, March. That time of year when so many of us wake up with a start thinking that we've overslept. :-) Yes, it's getting brighter, earlier. The days are getting longer. Does that put a smile on your face, or what?   Several people have asked me for the website where you can see what parts of the planet are in daylight and what parts are in darkness. Today is a critical day since the equinox occurs today.    If you've not done this before, check out the map today with your students. Revisit it once a week and print out the screenshots. A nice lesson, to be sure.   http://nist.time.gov/timezone.cgi?UTC/s/2/java   -- And thanks to Larry W for sharing this one: http://codefromthe70s.org/desktopearth_dl.asp   I havcen't found any mention of it being any sort of spyware,...

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The On-Site Computer Repair Technician – The ABC’s of Marketing Your Services

For many on-site computer repair technicians, marketing their services can be a daunting task. A strong marketing plan can make all the difference. If you have a large budget, you may want to hire an advertising service to do your marketing at least in the beginning. If you can't afford that, here are three ways to begin marketing your company.1. Press ReleasesPress releases generally focus on the grand opening of your business, special services, or new hires. On-site technicians can either write their own press releases or hire someone else to write them. Then, they are given out to a variety of media sources with the hope that one of them will pick up the story. If so, readers will remember your services for a long time to come.2. Print AdvertisementsPrint advertising is also an effective...

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Network Maintenance Agreements: Designing and Maintaining Your Network

Designing the right network for your company is extremely important. You want all users to be able to access the scanners and printers as well as share some important company files. A well-designed network will allow you to do all these things.Most companies don't realize the importance of network maintenance agreements and thus overlook them completely. Not only do they allow you to have an expert design your network, but you're also able to have expert maintenance on the network.Before choosing a network maintenance contract, read over several to find out the advanced options available as well. Although you may not need them now, in the future you may find that the advanced options are just what you need to expand your business.Learn more about getting a network maintenance agreement to...

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Computer Repair Franchises: Evaluating a Site

Computer repair franchises need a good location to enjoy success. Finding the best site involves several factors, and many franchisors are happy to help prospective owners weigh different criteria and use all available resources before choosing a site. The following factors are critical to location choice for computer repair franchises: population density; traffic; competition; appearance; and visibility. A realtor might help potential buyers in the search, and could be a good investment. Franchisors will often be able to give you a demographic report. Even in cases where this is not a possibility, you can find a company that can give you reliable statistical information about population density. The report should include the amount of people in the area, their ages, incomes, ethnic backgrounds...

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