Thursday, December 3, 2009


E-learning technology has been evolving for quite some time now; it certainly has evolved through its slow but steady start. It is now growing in use and acceptance. The adaptation of e-learning in normal business training operations is increasing and more companies are experiencing the advantages of the technology.

An ideal e-learning technology should start with these three basic components - Learning Management System (LMS), Learning Content Management System (LCMS) and Talent Management System (TMS). LMS technology is designed to manage the learners: from determining what one needs to learn to perform in a particular position or task, to what the employee needs to learn next to be more competent. On the other hand, LCMS technology manages the learning content, which works on how to create content to be delivered on different platforms. Lastly, the TMS technology manages the workforce: from finding the right candidates to how much an employee should be compensated. The interplay of these technologies is the key to a working and efficient e-learning system.

The best e-learning technology is relative and varies in case-to-case basis. What works for company A may not work for company B, or vice versa. It is dependent on what goals have been established upon the implementation of the e-learning technology. It is equally important to consider the capability of a company and how much budget they can allocate in adopting a new kind of technology. Choosing and maintaining an e-learning system for a company falls heavily on the shoulders of the learning and development team. It demands a lot of skills and competencies as e-learning covers wide areas – from research, content or curriculum development, designers, learning specialists to online trainers.

But then again, the success of an e-learning technology is largely dependent on the employee’s willingness to learn. User’s acceptance can be one of the barriers of e-learning. A healthy culture of learning is prerequisite to the company’s adaptation of e-learning. The company should continuously motivate their employees to enjoy the change if they are to succeed.

The advent of computers and the internet has tremendously changed the world and changed the ways of how people learn. E-learning technology is one big part of the helpful change. E-learning empowers the employee by the self-paced learning system and helps strengthen their social skills through the corporate community that is created by the technology. Another beauty of e-learning is its adaptability to change with the businesses. Though e-learning is not isolated from pitfalls; as it can also lead an employee to live in an impersonal world, it far outweighs its risks as it is manageable for the adventurous and cautious businesses.


An Information Technology Degree And An Open Door



Of all the most sought-after degree programs there are, the information technology degree is the one that is currently in the hotseat. Information technology is a branch of engineering that basically has to do with utilizing computers and their software to exchange, process and save information. Because there are different types of technology available, there are several different types of IT professionals.

The word technology is widespread now and covers a vast array of different applications; and it would seem that those applications are almost limitless. From working on computers as a systems analyst to selling computer systems based on a strong foundation of knowledge, getting a degree in information technology can be just the thing to not only push a career forward but give a person just that much more of an edge over their competition.

An assortment of specialized areas in information technology allows for the everchanging and evergrowing needs in the field to be met without alteration. A qualified individual in any one of the IT areas will be able to provide a company with a level of optimum productivity; especially when the learned skills are mixed with the basic fundamentals of business and their applications. It is no secret that employers tend to look for prospective employees who can provide a strong foundation in order to keep operations smooth.

Project management theory, computer programming, database and network systems are only just a few of the lessons that apply to getting an information technology degree. Hands-on training is great for building confidence and provides a level of comfort when entering a professional work environment. Professional certifications and dual degree programs can not only upgrade IT degrees, they can boost resumes and help to achieve the earning power that one has been looking for. A fully certified IT professional with a degree can expect to make $45,000 per year and up.

As this is one of the fastest growing fields around (and it looks to stay that way), there is always a need for those skilled in information technology. One would be hard pressed to find any area of everyday life where computers aren't already in use; and that is why the demand is and will always be what it is. An added plus is that with the use of computers being so widespread, there is hardly any place on the map a person can go that doesn't need workers with an IT degree.

With computers and technology, the learning is never done. As the demand continues to grow and change, so will the technology that complements our every day life. The person seeking a degree in information technology must be truly interested in computers and have a thirst for knowledge. There must be willingness and an aptitude for learning something new as software and technology upgrades itself at an amazing rate. The IT professional is a person who is alert and able to keep up; and better yet, is one step ahead of the game at every turn.

The person who has taken the time to earn his or her information technology degree will have opened the door to a career path that is wide and all encompassing. While one path in information technology may be right, that path can often lead to others; and the more skills behind a person the more well rounded and better off they'll be in their career. Information technology has come a long way and will continue on for many years to come. It is definitely one of those professions that will have the opportunity to see what tomorrow brings, today.

How Technology Is Affecting Our Lives




Today's world is full of pieces of technology that we take for granted, the microchip has truly revolutionised the way in which we live and do business. The world we see would not be recognisable to people of a few generations ago and nowhere is this truism greater than in the world of computing. Hence it is important to stay up to date with technology news; while many may think that this type of news is purely for geeks it is clear that all of us should have at least a passing interest in news of technological developments.

Technology pretty much touches all of our lives in some way and hence technology news is a vital resource that can keep us up to date with developments and ways in which the world will be changing. For instance, the onset of digital television is something that will affect most people; news stories that inform us of the dates for the switch over are vital so the average member of public can understand when their analogue signal will be turned off. In the same way, news of technologies that may make our cars safer and more efficient is important to all those who drive on our roads.

Anyone of a reasonable age will remember the BBC's 'Tomorrow's World; a technological news show that brought us stories of the latest developments and the ways life would be changed in the future. It was as sad day when this news show was cancelled; maybe it meant that people were no longer interested in new technology. If people are less interested they should not be; being up to date with what is coming around the corner is just as important as being informed on the politics of the nation and world affairs.

Any lack of interest has been sidestepped by the internet, which has seen the creation of a platform for thousands of writers who feel it necessary to publish regular news stories on technological developments. It is not just the bedroom 'bloggers' however that is publishing detailed news stories. Major reporting institutions are now likely to have a technology dedicated page in order to cope with the huge demand for this kind of news.

The fact of the matter is that technology now covers such a diverse range of subjects that it would be foolish for any reporting company not to write stories on the genre. Technology can apply to elements of the medical industry as well as the automotive industry. It is this diversity that makes technology news articles so interesting to read and why subscribers from all over the world regularly catch up theses stories.

It can be argued that will now live in the 'computer age', whether this is true or not is a matter of conjecture but what can be assured is that we live a period where computers are becoming increasingly important to our way of life. Ultimately we are becoming evermore reliant on our computers and without them we would be lost; there are even news stories of some now being addicted to their computers and handhelds. This is the extent that technology has encroached upon our lives that people now do not feel the need to 'unplug'.

The phenomena is only set to continue, as computers become more powerful and have greater and greater applications it will not be long that we will plan our lives around the computer. This is not an attempt to act as a harbinger of doom, it is just theorising on ways in which technology will impact upon the human race. This is why keeping up to date with news stories about technology is so important, technology is about forward momentum and understanding what is at the crest of the wave is only half of the battle.

Four Jobs You Could Get With An Information Technology Degree




Many wonder what exactly does someone with an information technology degree do in the real world. Despite the fact that many of us regularly work with information technology specialists, a significant number of people don't really know what this job is all about. They just know that they need to call the IT guy when something goes wrong with the computer. But having a degree in information technology provides you with more skills than just being the computer fixer-upper. With this degree, you could work in areas of the computer business as diverse as technology engineering, database specialization and consulting. Alternatively, you could opt to stick with the traditional IT job of maintaining and repairing computer systems for businesses of all sizes.

One of the most common jobs for someone with an information technology degree to get is an engineering job. There are engineers for both software and hardware, allowing people with interests in different aspects of computers to find their niche. Engineers assist in the development and design of software applications or hardware systems. This is a highly creative position, which lets people explore innovative technologies while making use of their specialized computer knowledge. One of the greatest rewards for engineers is to see something they've created gain widespread use among average computer users. To hear people talking about how great your new software program works is an ego boost to any engineer. The best of them will not be satisfied with this alone, though; they'll continue to push the boundaries of their work to create better systems.

Some people prefer to work on areas of computer technology that apply more to businesses than individuals. Although engineers can do this, a more common area of work for someone with this desire is to use their information technology degree to work in database specialization. Through this position, the individual creates and re-designs database systems to assist businesses in running more smoothly. This area of information technology is highly specialized and tends to be favored by people with an information technology degree who don't ever want to be bored with their work. They can spend hours each day tinkering with the merging of different systems and the design of new database applications, allowing them to create a product uniquely suited to the development of a client's business.

Of course, not all people who get an information technology degree want to work just with computers. Some want to do more work with people than they do with machines. Whereas engineers and database specialists primarily work alone with their equipment, computer consultants work primarily with people. They explore some of the same aspects of those people in other IT positions but instead of doing the actual work of designing and developing systems and software, they assist others in understanding the utilization of that software. They may make suggestions to companies for systems that could make operations run more smoothly or consult on large purchases made by small businesses.

The Internet is expanding rapidly. As it does, the information technology degree becomes applicable to an increasing number of jobs. However, some folks like to keep things simple. If you'd like to just be the person who fixes computer problems as they arise, you can still use your information technology degree to get that type of job. Generally known as a network administrator, this job is usually a full-time position, which involves fixing daily computer problems, checking the system for errors and assisting with regular updates to the technology. As important as computer function is to most businesses, this remains one of the most important positions available to information technology specialists.

Technology and Education


Technology has completely changed the way mankind works. It has become an integral part of our lives and basic movements of man are now solely dependent upon technology. Technology has prepared mankind to work faster, smarter and allows the brain to concentrate on other exciting and challenging goals and milestones. The last decade is dedicated to the workmanship of technology and its impact on the human race. http://education.ixs.net/.It has given us sleeker cell phones, internet mobility on personal computers that can now fit in purses and an extensive database of knowledge called the internet.
There is no avenue that technology has not touched. The complete workforce of mankind now works with technology. Thousands of industries and organizations around the world are now reaping the benefits of technology. And the education system is no exception to the rule. Technology has advanced and honed policies, streamlined academic activity and provided extensive reporting that was never possible before. Unique systems are now available in the market that immediately notify parents if their child or children arrive late at school and allow teachers to remotely send homework and grade papers online. Students across the world now search and prepare term papers all from simple browsing the internet at home or libraries. The basic principles of knowledge have not changed but the very edifice of obtaining and teaching has been revolutionalised by technology.
Other benefits of technology in the education arena are the administration functionality that technology provides. It allows colleges and universities to monitor thousands of students at one given go and allow hundreds of students to register classes that are suitable to the teachers and the students by the click of a mouse. Elementary and high schools can use sophisticated voice mails to update parents of the progress of the updates of their children. Technology has also been able to successfully deploy dedicated networks across intranets within college domains to share documents and reports.
The primal goal of these communications servers are designed to streamline information and messaging within the school system’s administrative and teaching community. This type of system can also help facilitate communications between various designated groups, clubs, the entire student body, and parents. Through this, everyone can stay better informed of special events and check the system frequently for any updates or changes that may have occurred. All student games, activities and personal information of students can be stored and retrieved at any given time by school officials.
The other important benefit of technology in the education sector is the exponential increase in enrollment due to the availability of online courses. People do not have to be physically available to take part in an important meeting or class across the world. Simple bandwidth connectivity will do the job and allow thousands of people in one global sphere to easily communicate with people in dispersed areas.
Hundreds of companies exist that build and provide applications and sophisticated softwares that further improve on the benefits of technology in education. Applications now provide video conferencing and remote logins to servers.


Bluetooth Not A Toothbrush But A Powerful New Wireless Technology


Do not study this guide if you are looking for a special type of toothbrush. Do not bother to read this guide if you are investigating facts about the various tooth whiteners. Do not set-aside time to examine this guide if you are intent on the discovery of more information about dental schools. Do read this article if you have an interest in technological developments.

Bluetooth does not describe a dental condition in which a patient has blue teeth. The term "Bluetooth" signifies a special new technology, a technology of the 21st Century. The devices with Bluetooth technology allow the user of such devices to conduct 2-way transmissions over short distances. Usually the distance between the communicating Bluetooth devices runs no more than 150 feet. . The individual who has access to two or more devices with Bluetooth technology has the ability to carryout such short-range communications.

One big advantage to having access to some of the devices with the Bluetooth technology is the opportunity one gains to conduct a "conversation" between mobile and stationary technological items. The Bluetooth car kit underlines the plus side of having access to the Bluetooth technology. The Bluetooth car kit sets the stage for a "conversation" between a mobile and a stationary electrical gadget.

For example, the Bluetooth car kit permits a cell phone in the garage to communicate with a home computer. Thanks to Bluetooth, a car driver with a cell phone could sit inside a car and send a message to a home computer. By the same token, Bluetooth technology could allow a car to send a message to a personal computer. Such a message could inform a car owner that the motor vehicle sitting in the garage needed an oil change, rotation of the tires or some other routine procedure.

Not all of modern automobiles come equipped with Bluetooth technology. So far only Acura, BMW, Toyota Prius and Lexus have chosen to provide the consumer with this special feature. In order for the car owner to benefit from the potential of Bluetooth technology in a motor vehicle, all of the devices with that technology must use the same type of profile.

For example, if a car audio system contains devices with the Bluetooth technology, then any of the communications that take place between those devices require Bluetooth equipment that uses the same profile. Such restrictions typically specify that the Bluetooth car kit will work only if all of the inter-device communicating involves equipment that operates under the hands-free profile. In other words, a Bluetooth car kit would not be expected to allow a cell phone with a headset profile to communicate with a computer that had a dial-up networking profile.

Of course Bluetooth technology is not confined to the automobile. It has also been responsible for allowing young teens to listen to music from an iPod, while at the same time being equipped and ready to handle any number of cell phone calls. On other occasions those same teens might choose to use the Bluetooth technology to send selected images from a digital camera to a home computer.

The Bluetooth technology has demonstrated the ability to lay the groundwork for creation of a mobile entertainment system. It could also facilitate the quick assembly of an operating and mobile office space. The father of the young teen who was listening to a iPod could very-well be the traveling business man at the airport, the man who must wait for a delayed flight. Access to the Bluetooth technology would give such a man the ability to set-up a temporary "office" in the airport terminal.

Once that same traveling businessman had reached his destination, and once he had settled in a motel room, then he might use the Bluetooth technology to send signals from a laptop computer to a printer server. Both younger and older adults have demonstrated that Bluetooth technology is definitely a technology of the 21st Century. Who could guess that the Bluetooth technology got its name from King Harold, "Bluetooth," of Denmark, who lived back in the 10th Century? King Harold sought to unite the countries of Scandinavia, much as the Bluetooth technology helps the different types of informational devices to work in unison.

Latest Mobile Communications Technologies


From the heavy cordless phones of the 1980's to the smart phones of today, cellular phone technology has undergone a incredible change. But have you ever wondered how you can call to your well wisher in the whole world with the usage of a mobile phone? You also have knowledge about the main features such as WAP and GPRS from the cell phone vendors and service providers. But you must aware of what they really mean?

There are numerous mobile technologies. So next time, when you are going to purchase a phone, you should know what technologies it has.

Generations of mobile communications

In the late 1970s, the first generation (1G) of mobile communications was introduced; it was primarily used for voice transfer. Second generation (2G) systems came into existence in the early 1990s and was further developed to 2.5G, which includes high technologies such as TDMA, GSM and CDMA. These technologies were used for voice and data.

The next generation of mobile communications is 3G which delivers data speeds from 384 kbps to 2 Mbps and over wireless interfaces such as GSM, TDMA and CDMA.

Mobile phone access technologies

Frequency division multiple access (FDMA)
The first-generation analog mobile access method; for each call, FDMA uses separate frequencies. For instance, if there are four stations, each will receive their own frequency. So there is no interference between them. It reduces interference, but limits the number of users.

Time division multiple access (TDMA)
TDMA allocates unique time slots to each user within each channel, thus allowing many users to access the radio frequency without anyone's interference. Each mobile conversation uses only a particular frequency slot of the time.


Code division multiple access (CDMA)
Commercially introduced in 1995 by Qualcomm, CDMA quickly became one of the world's fastest-growing wireless technologies. 3G CDMA networks provide more capacity for voice traffic with high-speed data capabilities, hence many cellular service providers are now building or upgrading to it.

CDMA is used in both 2G and 3G wireless technologies. Indian Cell operators such as Reliance IndiaMobile, TATA Indicom, BSNL and MTNL's Garuda all use CDMA2000 technology and its variant CDMA1x.

Global system for mobile communications (GSM)
GSM is now the worldwide standard technology for mobile communications. It is developed on TDMA protocol in Europe. GSM provides a high level of security, globally accepted technology standards and superior sound quality.

For any GSM phone to work, it needs a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM), a card which contains your telephone account information. So, an Indian GSM phone can be used in any part of the world.

Wireless technology platforms

1) GPRS
GPRS (General Packet Radio Services) is an enhancement to GSM technology that integrates GSM and IP technology. GPRS offers to access the Internet at the very high speed. So you can check your email on the move and surf the Web at very high speed. Currently BPL Mobile and Hutch (Orange in Mumbai) offer GPRS services in India.

2) WAP
In this high technology age, people on the move need any-time access to the Net. This is where WAP comes in. It facilitates us to Internet access from cell phones. It is an open standard for wireless protocols that is independent of the service providers. The cell phone must have a WAP browser to display Web content. Now-a-days, cell phones often come equipped with WAP browser and GPRS technology.
WAP and GPRS also enable the user to download games, send mail and even transfer your messages to your PC.

3) EDGE
The new EDGE (Enhanced Data GSM Environment) interface has been developed specifically to meet the bandwidth needs of 3G. This technology is promoted by Ericsson, it also offers high-speed data transfers over GSM networks with just a software upgrade to the handset. EDGE technology allows speeds up to 384 kbps.

Bluetooth Technology



Bluetooth technology is a type of the wireless technology that eliminates the need for the number of inconvenient cables and devices that are used to connect the computers, mobile phones, digital cameras, handheld devices and new digital appliances. Bluetooth enables the users to connect to a wide variety of telecommunication and computing devices easily, without cables.

It makes rapid ad hoc connections, automatic unconscious connections between two or more digital devices. Bluetooth provides the opportunity of using the mobile data in different applications. Bluetooth makes wireless communication between the two devices in a localized area of a room of office or home very easily. Bluetooth technology uses radio-based links and all the connections between the devices and invisible and instantaneous.

By Bluetooth technology your laptop can send print request to a printer in your next room. Bluetooth is actually a standard for wireless communication between the devices in a relatively small area and it is therefore works fine in the personal area network (PAN) using radio frequency.
Any two devices that follow the Bluetooth standard can communicate with each other. A number of the Bluetooth devices like digital camera, mobile phone and handheld pc can form a network. You can send emails to your mobile phones from your laptop without any physical connect between your laptop and your mobile phones.

Features of Bluetooth technology
• Bluetooth technology uses radio waves for communication in 2.4 GHz
• It supports multipoint communication not just point to point.
• Bluetooth works in a small area of 10-15 meters.
• Bluetooth offers speed of 1-2 Mbps.
• Bluetooth chipsets are less expensive though more expensive than IrDA.

How Bluetooth Technology Works

Bluetooth is a high speed wireless link technology that uses the radio waves. It is designed to connect the mobile phones, laptops, hand held devices and portable equipments with almost no work by the end users. Unlike infrared Bluetooth does not require line of sight between the connecting units. Bluetooth technology is a modified form of the current Wireless LAN technology and it’s more acceptable for its relative small size and low cost.

The current circuits are contained on a circuit board of 0.9 cm square and a much smaller single chip version is in development and soon it will be in use. The cost of the Bluetooth device is expected to fall rapidly. Bluetooth chip has to be equipped in many devices. In Bluetooth technology, small and inexpensive transceivers have been placed in the digital devices. The radio waves operate at 2.45 Ghz band on the Bluetooth devices. Bluetooth supports the data speed up to 721 Kbps and 3 voice channels. The Bluetooth chip can either be built into the devices or it can be uses as an adapter. In computer it can be used with the USB port. Each Bluetooth device has a 48 bit address from the IEEE 802 standards and the Bluetooth connections can be either point to point or multipoint. Bluetooth range is 10 meter but it can be extended up to 100 meters by increasing the power.

Bluetooth devices are protected from the external interference because they change their frequency up to 1600 times in a second. Bluetooth radio technology provides the bridge between the existing data network. Bluetooth guarantees security at the bit level and the authentication is controlled by the end user by using 128 bit key. An important face of the Bluetooth technology is that it instantly forms a network when two or more devices come closer in the range of each other.

Bluetooth Technology Benefits

Bluetooth technology is a convenient choice of communication in a wire free, short range environment. Bluetooth is a globally available standard for connecting the devices like mobile phones, digital cameras, laptops, MP3 Players, cars, stereo headsets etc. Bluetooth enable devices do not need to install any drivers. The key benefits of the Bluetooth wireless technology are its built-in-security, low cost, easy of use, robustness, and ad hoc networking capabilities.

The Bluetooth wireless technology is available globally. Many manufactures from the different companies are busy to implement the technology in their products. Bluetooth technology operates in the 2.4 Ghz, one of the unlicensed, industrial and scientific radio band. Bluetooth technology is a free of charge service but your mobile phones set should support the GSM and CDMA technology.

Today mobile phones have built in capabilities and Bluetooth functionalities in them. Bluetooth technology is available in the different range of the devices like mobile phones, automobiles, medical devices, industries and enterprises etc.

Due to the key features of the Bluetooth technology like low power consumption, low cost and wireless features make it more popular. Bluetooth technology does not require any fixed infrastructure and it is very simple to install and setup.

No wires are required to connect the Bluetooth devices. You can connect to other Bluetooth enabled devices anytime if they come in your range. Bluetooth wireless technology is widely supported and is secure wireless standard today. Bluetooth devices has built-in security features such as 128 bit encryption and pin code authentication when Bluetooth devices identify themselves they use the pin code when they first time connect.

Cisco Systems, Microsoft, and the Rewarding Trade of Information Technology

The field of Information Technology has been very good to me and is an excellent trade to get into for those of you looking at entering a career or changing careers. As a former instructor, I can tell you that as a prerequisite you must be at least comfortable with using computers; better if you have a knack for fixing them when they break! Those of you who are very familiar with using, repairing, and even building computers are perfectly cut out for the lucrative field of Information Technology.

The purpose of this article is to help you in getting started on the path towards earning your industry standard certifications in the field of Information Technology while also gaining hands on practical experience with computer networks. I will tell you on the next page exactly what to do if you are interested in entering the field of Information Technology, even if you have no experience whatsoever. In the field of Information Technology, it is often not enough to just earn your certifications as employers generally favor IT professionals with work experience.

I will also share with you more about my own background and how it helped me to enter the field of Information Technology.

In the early 1990's I was working as an administrative assistant, and as part of my duties I learned how to use a number of different computer programs; common business applications including word editors, spreadsheet programs, and databases. After my stay as an administrative assistant, and while I was seeking new and interesting employment opportunities, I sent away for a PC (Personal Computer) home study course, mostly because it came with a PC! I learned computer hardware, and computer software, including operating systems such as Microsoft DOS and Windows version 3.1. (Learning computer hardware and computer software, including operating systems such as Microsoft Windows XP and Microsoft Windows Vista is the first step in training for a career in Information Technology. I will explain more about this on the next page.)

I was also able to connect to the Internet using a modem; at that time, the only real Internet choices there were was “GopherNet”, and the America Online Network. (“GopherNet”, which is still in existence today, allows you to view folders and files on a remote computer, not web pages. The America Online Network has merely changed over the years.) Besides then connecting to a rather bleak Internet, in comparison with today's Internet, you could connect to what were called “BBS's”, or electronic bulletin boards. These “sites” allowed you to chat, play online games, and both upload and download content. ( I would have to check to see if any “BBS's” are still in existence today!)

In 1997 I relocated to the Silicon Valley (San Jose, California), and I began applying around for administrative assistant positions. One recruiter pointed out that I “had a list of computer skills a mile long” between having learned a number of business applications, and having also completed a two year home study course as a PC Specialist. I was offered a high paying short term contract to provide computer support for employees at NEC Computers. I was basically an apprentice to what I would call a “guru” in terms of computer and computer networking skills.

I also entered college again to earn an Associate of Science/Information Systems Degree. After my contract at NEC Computers ended I applied at Honeywell Automated and Industrial Controls, and I accepted a position as a hardware technician. At this point now in my life I was pursuing a second degree in Information Technology, and working in the field of Information Technology, developing on the job skills critical to become a real expert. (At that time, the field of Information Technology was called Management Information Systems (MIS). Later it was changed to Information Specialist (IS), and today it is known as Information Technology (IT)).

That was the beginning for me. I soon continued on to teach networking technologies, and I accepted senior engineering positions with a number of different companies and corporations. I WAS EARNING WAGES and BENEFITS PACKAGES I HAD NEVER DREAMED OF!!! I essentially climbed the ladder from working as a computer hardware technician to working as an instructor, a network engineer, a senior network engineer, and finally as a consultant! Today I work as a contractor and as a webmaster.

If you would like to enter the field of Information Technology yourself PLEASE CONTINUE READING!!! I have myself graduated over four hundred computer networking students, and I can teach you how to learn computer hardware and software, and computer networking. I will tell you what course books to study and how and what certification tests to prepare for.

The field of Information Technology is not about computer programming, or application development; this field is all about the designing, building, maintaining, troubleshooting and repairing both the computers and the computer networks that companies use to store and use their data. In considering computers, there is the computer hardware; the disk drives, cd-rom drives, memory, motherboard, processors, power supplies, mice, keyboards, and other parts and peripherals. There is also the computer software; namely, the operating system, like Microsoft Windows XP or Microsoft Windows Vista, and computer applications or programs, such as Microsoft Office or Adobe Acrobat Reader.

When one or more computers are connected together to form a computer network they are connected using network devices such as hubs, switches, routers, and other network devices. In the field of Information Technology some IT Specialists prefer to work on computer hardware and computer software, and special computers used in a computer network called network servers. Other IT Specialists prefer to work more with network switches, network routers, and other telephone and telecommunications equipment.

If you would prefer to work with networking devices more than with computer hardware, computer software, and servers, you might want to pursue getting certified as a Cisco Certified Network Associate, or CCNA. (The CCNA certification is either one or two exams; you have a choice of taking it as either one or two exams depending upon your preference.) Your duties as a CCNA would revolve more around configuring and troubleshooting network routers and switches, and working with leased line providers and telecommunications equipment. Cisco Systems also offers other more advanced routing certifications beyond the CCNA, namely the Cisco Certified Network Professional, or CCNP, and the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert, or CCIE.

If you would prefer to work on computers; installing and fixing computer hardware and computer software, and administering network servers and network databases and applications, you might be interested in pursuing first the A+ certification followed by the Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer, or MCSE certification. (The A+ certification exam is given as either one or two exams; one exam is based on computer hardware and the other exam covers special software known to IT Specialists as operating systems. The Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer, or MCSE, is awarded upon the successful completion of seven individual exams.)

Many IT professionals maintain proficiency in computer hardware, software, network servers, and computer networking devices such as routers and switches. Many employers demand that their IT staff be able to help employees with simple computer problems while also being able to solve complex network problems on network routers, switches, and even firewall systems. Many positions in the field of Information Technology require an A+ certification, an MCSE, and a CCNA. Other positions require only one of these certifications, plus or many any of a number of other industry standard certifications.

Unless you decide to pursue the Cisco Certified Network Associate, or CCNA certification, you will probably want to begin learning the ins and outs of a single computer before studying computer networking technologies. You can purchase the textbooks for the A+ certification, the MCSE certification, and the CCNA certification at almost any book retailer.

Focus first on the A+ exam material before proceeding to the MCSE exam material and/or the CCNA exam material - this is best if you are an absolute novice. It is also a good idea to set up a small computer network at home to practice with - hands on experience with these technologies is essential to success! It is also a good idea to attend a technical school to learn the basics of networking technologies, but you can study and become proficient with these technologies on your own just as well.

With your A+ certification behind you, you can work as a PC technician, or even as a Help Desk Specialist (helping employees with their hardware, software, and basic network problems.) While pursuing your MCSE and or CCNA, you can apply for positions as a junior systems administrator, network administrator, and even a junior network engineer.

Study your exam materials, setup your own home network that you can use to practice on, and by all means try to meet people who work as IT Specialists so that you can learn more about working in the field of Information Technology. Maybe you can spend a day at work with them working for free as an apprentice? (Companies usually do not mind extra help for free!)

Create a sharp resume' listing your certifications and/or technical school degrees, and your work experience...if you do not have any work experience, try to get some working with an IT Specialist. Though certifications are important, most employers prefer work experience. Some job interviews have a required technical interview where you are tested on your fundamental knowledge and your ability to troubleshoot and resolve computer and computer network problems.

Once you have passed you A+ certification exams you can begin applying to work as a computer technician (hardware and/or software technician.) From there you can continue your studies in networking, earn your MCSE and/or CCNA, CCNP, or CCIE, and become a network engineer, a senior network engineer, a contractor, or even work as a consultant.

Good luck to you...if you have any questions about the field of Information Technology please feel free to contact Donald Carroll at Green Planet Fantasy Theater.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

The Top 10 Mistakes Technology Companies Make


In working closely with technology providers over the years, I regularly discover that these companies are making common mistakes that devalue the company, leave revenue on the table, or jeopardize their long-term health. So this special article identifies the top 10 of these mistakes to help you avoid making them.

10. Failure to register a federal copyright for company-developed software

Your company has spent months, and maybe years developing the next-big-thing. You're out there licensing it to customers, fighting off competitors, and trying to maximize your revenues. What would you do if a customer was misusing your software? What if a competitor was copying parts of it to use in its product? There are various ways to respond to these problems, but one of the easiest to way to strengthen your claims is to register a copyright for the software with the United States Copyright Office. Registration provides you with an enhanced ability to have a court prevent infringing use of your software, and a greater amount of damages that are recoverable. The best part is that registration is relatively easy and inexpensive.

9. Licensing technology too broadly

So you've landed that big deal with that big customer. You've carefully priced the deal based upon your expectations of how the customer is going to use your technology - by a specific group within the customer's large organization. You're hoping that the success of this deal will lead to a greater adoption of your technology within the rest of the company, and ultimately more revenue for you. Unfortunately, you later learn that this one group is sharing your technology throughout the rest of the company, with no additional license fees to you, and there's nothing you can do about it. Why? By failing to carefully and narrowly draw up the license grant in your agreement, you've unwittingly granted the entire company the rights to use your technology, and you've left a pile of cash on the table.

8. Failure to provide detailed support and maintenance policies

Too often, once a company's technology is ready to be licensed, determining how to support the technology becomes an afterthought. General and non-descriptive obligations like "providing telephone and email support" and "providing updates" are invitations for disagreements and missed expectations. When is phone support being offered? How quickly will you respond to problems? What is considered and update and what is a new product for which you would charge the customer separately? Many times, you need your customer to provide you with certain information about the problem before you can diagnose and fix it. Set the appropriate expectations in your support and maintenance policies and avoid these issues in the future.

7. Not contracting customers to recurring support fees

Customers want and expect that you will be there to support your product, assist with problems, and provide them updates when you add features or fix bugs. Customers also expect that you will regularly charge them for these services, so why do so many technology vendors sell a product to a customer and fail to structure regular and recurring support fees? In general, a technology vendor's highest profit margins are realized through a support fee stream, and not in the upfront license charge.

6. Inadequate non-disclosure and non-compete agreements with employees and contractors

The technology business is one of the most competitive industries in the market. Why take a chance losing your competitive advantage by not ensuring that your intellectual property, customer lists, trade secrets, and other sensitive information are properly protected through appropriate agreements with your employees, contractors, and vendors? Finding and using some form agreement that you saw floating around on the Internet somewhere may actually make matters worse if you don't fully understand the terms. Moreover, simple steps can be taken to ensure that anything developed by your employees is, and remains, your company's property.

5. Giving away intellectual property ownership too liberally

Many technology companies develop customized technology for their customers, or make customized modifications to their existing technology on behalf of a particular customer. And most customers argue that if they're paying for it, they want to own it. But giving away your company's intellectual property in these instances can prevent you from reusing it for other customers - effectively shutting down a potential source of revenue in the future. And many times, your customers may not need to actually "own" the developments - a license right can often do the trick.

4. Using overly broad or subjective acceptance testing

It is not uncommon or unreasonable for customers to want to "kick the tires" of your technology before they pay for it. Problems arise when the customer has an unreasonable expectation of what the technology is supposed to achieve, and either want to withhold payment, or force you to provide extra services to meet that unreasonable expectation. This especially manifests itself when a customer includes acceptance testing language in a contract which is not tied to objective and realistic standards. Although it can be a laborious effort, taking the time to objectify these standards with the customer in the contract can save you significant time down the road, and get you paid faster.

3. Offering liberal source code escrow release conditions

For software developers, you know that your source code is the "crown jewels" of your business. It is the core of your technology, representing months or years of your blood, sweat, and tears. Yet many software companies are willing to give it away, for free, to their customers. How? By entering into a source code escrow agreement with a customer and allowing it to be released to them in situations where the code still holds value for you. Many customers will demand the source code be released to them if you stop supporting the software, but the intellectual property in the code may still be used in your other products or technology, effectively giving your customer the tools it needs to duplicate your technology. Creating very narrow and specific source code release conditions can minimize this impact.

2. Undervaluing technology

What is your technology worth? It's a difficult question, and value can be measured and determined in many ways. Many new technology companies feel compelled to undercharge for their technology in an effort to break into the market. Although there is certainly some merit in that, I see vendors consistently undervaluing what their technology is worth, leaving significant revenue on the table. Understanding the impact and loss to the customer if they DON'T license your technology is the first key to pricing your product. Plus, under-pricing your product can create an impression that the technology is "cheap" - not a label that will build a positive reputation of your company in the long run.

1. Using a form license and/or services agreement that doesn't fit your business model

Capturing exactly how you want to provide your product or services to your customer, allocating the risks, and creating each party's obligations and rights, is not a simple or quick process. Replicating some other company's form agreement not only exposes you to risks that you may not be aware of, but potentially violates the other company's copyright in their agreement, and raises the risks outlined in the other points of this list. Having a customized agreement created for you that aligns with your business processes, mitigates your risks, and addresses the laws that apply in your jurisdiction for your industry is a key component in running a successful technology business.

Daniel A. Pepper, Esq.

Daniel A. Pepper is the founder of Pepper Law Group, LLC, a law firm based in Somerville, New Jersey which provides strategic advice and sophisticated legal services to businesses, entrepreneurs, and entertainers in the areas of technology law, intellectual property, Internet law, entertainment law, business formation and general business counsel, and privacy and security law.

Dan is a member of the State Bars of New Jersey and Pennsylvania, the District Courts for the District of New Jersey and Western Pennsylvania, the American Bar Association, the American Corporate Counsel Association, the Internet & Computer Law Committee of the New Jersey State Bar Association, the Somerset County Business Partnership, the Philadelphia Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts, and the Free Speech Coalition. Dan has received a BV peer-review rating by Martindale-Hubbell, which is an indication of an exemplary reputation and well-established practice. He is also a member of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences and the Licensing Executives Society. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Rutgers University, and his Juris Doctor degree from the Duquesne University School of Law.

Small Business and Technology


l business management has had to make room for a new facet of business: technology. Through the years traditional business management has had to marry its strategies with the proliferation of technology where every business
Traditionaowner from Starbuck's to Jim's Auto has had to incorporate technology into its everyday operations. The problem is that in the late nineties business believed technology was going to be the solution for every business problem, but it wasn't until recently that business managers realized that technology will fail if not implemented properly. That is, traditional business management must seamlessly marry itself with technology. Traditional business management is pretty self-explanatory; it's managing business through traditional methods that have been used for many years. Traditional business management takes into account all aspects of running a business, large or small. Whether it is a million-dollar company or a billion-dollar company, all companies run the same. Those traditional methods incorporate three aspects of business: sales and marketing strategies, efficient operation and production methods, and manageable finances (SG&A). I believe all businesses should pay attention to these areas of business management. So, now you have this traditional business model to think of, and you also have to think that the model has incorporated technology. You see, managing a business is not as easy as it sounds, and I know you have never looked at your business in this way before. Believe it or not, graduate schools teach this stuff and larger companies obviously have the money to pay someone to think of this stuff. But most businesses do make the mistake in believing technology will solve all of their business problems. This is simply not true; technology cannot solve every business problem. Many large corporations install and implement technology as quickly and arbitrarily as they would a new desk or a new lamp, not taking into consideration the stress new technology places on both business processes and human nature. Humans inherently do not like change, especially at the work place where they might feel as they might lose their job or were not consulted in helping determine which technology is best for their task or function. Business processes do not like change either as the processes a business must go through to operate are much more complex than people might think. Most technology consultants want to "go live" with their implementation as soon as they can so they can share the praise of a successful launch. What most technology consultants don't realize is that their eagerness to "sell" the job puts a business in a precarious operational bind. It only makes sense to understand that as technology can be customized and most business processes cannot, basic technology implementations will hurt a business' process as opposed to helping. Some of the technology solutions out there can be very complex and some can be very simple. For example, I recently helped a client realize that developing a method of capturing labor time per phase of each of their projects allowed them to better understand and account for costs associated to labor and materials, per project. This allowed their sales team better cost data related to profit margins required per project. Initially the client was looking to spend money on purchasing one of those electronic card readers that each of his employees would have to swipe as they moved from station to station. We were able to solve his process issue at half the cost of that electronic clock by simply creating a custom process document from Microsoft Excel. The fact that the clock was not customizable would require the business processes to change just to accommodate the clock. In this case we are trying to convey the importance of understanding your business and its processes before you move into technology. It is less expensive and less burdensome on your business processes. What we accomplished in the case above was that we were able to 'tweak' the business processes at will, where had we purchased the clock, we would have been forced to comply with what the clock required, not the business. In the late nineties the hype of technology and the Internet fueled the belief that plugging technology into your business or developing your business around technology was the best way to run a business. A great example was WebVan and HomeGrocer. These companies spent over a hundred-million venture capital dollars building the infrastructure that was going to give them the warehouse space to buy food products to fill all the customer orders that were to come via the Internet. The mistake was that the company put all of its money into the assumption that its idea would work because the American grocery shopper was ready to buy groceries online via state-of-the-art technology. The orders never came. Actually, the orders did come; the problem was that both companies were in so much debt because they couldn't generate interests in their business model and they went out of business. Today, the traditional grocery chains such as Albertson's and Vons in the western U.S. have capitalized on earlier business models and realized their traditional way of doing business could was a great foundation to build their technology around their current processes. I had the privilege of touring the WebVan warehouse in Oakland, California. It was impressive. If I remember correctly, it was an 80,000 square foot building equipped with a technologically advanced conveyer belt system worth millions of dollars. It looked like the inside of a United Parcel Service (UPS) warehouse, but much more expensive. For those who have never seen the inside of a UPS warehouse, it is just a bunch of conveyer belts. Interestingly, about 50 people were milling around the WebVan warehouse; their main task was making sure the computers were pulling the right products and putting them on the conveyer belts. Great operation, but they ran out of money after just a little over a year. So, what failed here, technology or money? Lack of money failed at WebVan, and lack of money fails almost every business that goes out of business. Lack of money fails business due to lack of business knowledge. Business owners, make sure that you understand technology and that it can be customized and should be customized to meet your business process requirements. You can see the most successful implementation of technology in companies such as Wal-Mart and Toyota and we can see failures in technology such as WebVan. We make sure we know how our business operates and what those operations require when making your businesses more efficient and effective. We look at understanding what your business requires before we recommend technology. In the long run, you'll spend less and profit more

Begin A Fulfilling Information Technology Career Near Washington Dc




Information Technology is an industry that still provides lots of career opportunities in today’s unstable job market. Software development, networking and record maintenance in the health care facilities are just a few of the the opportunities in the information technology field. Because there are many opportunities available in the information technology industry, there are countless numbers of training colleges that have sprung up offering training courses. If you look around for "Information Technology Schools," you'll find hundreds of the training schools. However, all schools are not created equal. Selecting the training institutes that offer you the best information technology classes will is a large, and often daunting task. Reading this article will help your search for the best information technology classes in DC metro area. Here is what to look for in an information technology training college.
1. Look for Information technology classes with various options You will be well aware that there are options like associate degrees and bachelors degrees for information technology. You must always look for information technology classes that offer both associate's and bachelor's degrees in the same college. There very few training schools in the DC metro area to offer both associate and bachelor degrees in information technology. 2. Look for information technology classes with updated training materials Information technology is a rapidly changing field so there will always be updates in technology that you have to learn as you go. Because of this, you should get the most updated knowledge in computer science to stay in the industry. You should do your research and make sure that the training materials used in the information technology classes are giving you the most updated information in computer science. 3. Look for more practical classes in computer science Unlike other programs, the information technology classes need more practical tuition than theory. Make sure that the training school you choose has adequate lab facilities. The technology courses should also contain lots of lab sessions focusing on computer science. These practical sessions in computer science will help students to learn the actual applications of their knowledge, and gives them more confidence as they start out on their new career. 4. Look for placement assistance Though there are lots of career opportunities for students graduating with an information technology degree, the placement assistance offered by some of the best training schools will help in the career search. Joining the information technology classes with placement assistance help you land a . Finding the Right Information Technology School With the huge popularity of computer science and information technology, thousands of training schools have opened worldwide. Unfortunately not all the training schools are the same. Moreover, some online career training scams have entered the field quite recently. Doing a little research will ensure that you find genuine schools which offer good education in the field of Information Technology. Virginia, for instance is home to several wonderful career schools which offer practical and tailored curricula to a diverse community of working adults and students. With the help of such colleges, getting into a career in information technology is safe and easy.

Subquantum Technology



Regarding previously said, a problem of information note and form of description ,extrovert and inner ,introvert world is based upon existence of information code ,as subject determination basic feature in the moment of “technological “ description ,which is related to certain object, or substantive analytical examination in relation with the same object. What appears to be essential is whether the information evolved from technological advancement or it has been defined by its own existence .For instance, Is the informational capacity ,measured in bytes and regarding technological advancement and subject of research taken randomly, more determinate to analyst rather than to its inventor? Informational determination capacity is proportional to analytical decoding , just as the content of dream is to conscious. Technical measurement ,which is to determinate the subject informational more precisely ,directly affects the informational code reproduction. Informational chain code appears to be essentially divergent in relation to any subject being analysed ; its selfdetermination is unconditional only if out of experimental or any form of perceptive range .The problem resembles subquantum paradox which results in experimental conception –experimenter causes the result of experiment ,while on the grounds of experimental action technical substratum treats its own field of analysis as artificial Subquantum technology basics Principles of quantum mechanics are based on the claim that the fundamental entity concerning all interactions in nature is quantum, defined as form of indivisible unit carrying an absolute minimum of energy .In a word,any process of interaction, emission or absorbing of all materials energetic conditions is exclusively possible in form of infinitesimal quantum continuance .According to theoretical implications method , metaphysics and physics matches. As a subject of research , subquantum level of nature is being realistic ,not only metaphysicist, but also to physicist , regarding theoretical concepts. This aspect of nature excels any range of scientific or any other form of perception .Basic reason is most simple: considering the fact that perception sphere is being modified inside the quantum instance of nature , in order to implement any form of knowledge, it must be based upon quantum “behaviour” of natural interactions. Realization of subquantum instance theoretically implied, although its practical significance or experimental induction are impossible . Solid form of technological advancement interpretation and the way it emanates from nature ,speaking in terms of idealists, it shapes into a classical model of synthetic explanations, which defines the technological circle as formal, secondary characteristic of individual interactions with nature. Structure of technological image is exclusively based upon domain of interactive, process related, although its peculiarity absolutely can’t possibly be derived from natural substratum. The aspect o technological determination is added to natural domain ,regarding synthetic interaction with nature ,relation between technology and nature is,a s for these concepts of explanation ,immanent,e ssentially impracticable.A possibility stems from shaping, factual ,state which subject reduces from nature influenced by technology. Specification of technological advancement is concentrated to reducing the practical domain of technical implementation considering the sphere of reality and perceptiveness.Realization ,practicable and technical is in direct connection to expectation of scientific theory principle which proves itself. Technology evolved in just a few decades .Considering the fact that technology raised, for instance, in nineteen forties the size limit was 10-5 milimetres, while nowdays contemporary science moved the limits towards 10-10 meters or 10 -7 milimetres.T his is the domain of very popular nanotechnology .Quantum physics concept in a pretty self-confident way pleads with absolute influence to the real world of subatomic entity of nature ,although the theoretical concept itself, regarding analytical method used for its definition, seems to be very self –destructive and fragile. Subquantum aspect of natural interactions, like absolute foundation of visible and invisible is theoretically and implicitly unpredictable in its adherence, which should be considered as variable; subquant world is not a subject to laws of existing world, so should any discerning reader notice that ,according to conceptual explanations of interactive manifestations, certain processes should be assigned to a cathegory of principles semantics. In a word, It is necessary to find some law in illegal. Such conclusion is a mind’s need, like a compromising relief in a visible defining process, but also a fundamental self-deceit of our own world of phenomena is in mind navigating to functionality exclusively referring to cathegories of relational .Pointing this problem in a theoretical manner of explaining the subatomic, it is inevitable to say that our model of perception points out to specific “behaviour” of invisible world of subatomic level of nature. Related to our concept, this world has its own rules, essentially Imperceptible. It is possible to presume its ” intensity “,inner essential determination ,although, according to its constitution, it is impracticable ,for it is not connected with factual world. Poetical sentence says: a shape whose appearance exclusively stands for itself , has no appearance at all. This problem is going to be mentioned later on,regarding analysis of multidimensional concept relation and relation of selfhood and the instance of consciousness. Let’s make an assumption that result of technology advance is ,as mentioned, based upon structural minimization, deeper penetrating the natural infinity, regarding as macro as mini entity, even though the practicality of technical advancement incorporates into substantial minimization, or division of manifesting world .As to this, what is the final result of technological advancement? Provided that subquantum world represents fundamental entity of factual world, is the subquantum world itself a metaresult of technological circle?Being incorporated into the fundamental range of natural, technology would turn the full the circle as non-spreading shape .Its inner substance would excel the result of the very evolution. Speaking of metaphysical poetry, it would be amazed by technology, not by its complexity, but for it excels the semantic of pure determination as a concrete being of practical world .From the starting point, which is originally referring to practical approach to nature , it finds its own realization in substantive influence on absolute entity of - world, to subquantum entity. By this process technology would , closing the evolutionary circle, abandon the originality of physical world. Each form of its prediction or attempt on complementary defining would appear to be unsuccessful. Synthetic form of metaphysical incarnation of technology would strengthen; nevertheless, this analyse intention is not to establish the horizon of its (technological) final revolution as meta-aspect. Subquantum technology should ,by surpasing the applicable value, and regarding qualitative peculiarity towards efficiency within natural complex, make transcendence superior to categorizing. Forms of quantity and quality ,equalizing technological relation and natural ,become completely useless. Assumption of taking initiative action implicates a huge possibility of technological meta determination of natural flow; every interaction, causal relation,any natural manifestation are being modified by subquantum technology. Countless options of nanotechnology in virtual, parallel reality construction appears to be essential regression concerning subquantum technology. Quality proportion would be enormously bigger between these two evolution aspects, than between microprocessor and prehistoric stone axe. Provided that nanotechnological field “resource” is 10-10 meters, the aspect of subquantum might be extensively measurable by theoretical models. Essentially and structurally ,microdimensions of subquantum technology would not be determinate, according to upper definition, and intensity would not follow extension. This final” level “of technology would appear to sphere of perception identical to entering the singularity.To our categories of cognition it seems to be incomprehensible , whereas it could be predicative according to existing theoretical models. Example of singularity,I n this case ,ought to be seen as compromising analogy, although regarding the hypothetical case of final technological revolution ,it would be absolutely incomprehensible. Exceeding the quant limit would mean that technology in multidimensional frame absolutely alters space and time continuum ,even the genealogy concept og Universe would be absolutely changed, although this theoretical implication totally unacceptable in its essence .Finalization of technological evolution understands ontological surpassing the world. Problem appears here, in state section ,on condition that finalization of evolution process understands own starting point transcendence ,sublimated in visible macroplan of nature ,which is fundamental to changing the essential form of existence. In a word, how can a form, defined by technological semantic ,practicable realization ,outdoes own form of existential determination placing itself into the aspect of absolute, subquantum. Metaphysical conflict is in the notion and also in the semantic of subquantum. If this entity himself reperesents the absolute entity of nature, turning the full circle becomes expected. On condition that theoretical models point out to interpreting suitability of subquantum as absolute, subquantum technology would be as far from the result of infinitely successive circle of its own evolution. This problem will be examined synthetically highlighting either the notion multidimensionality and reduction of selfhood later on in the text.