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What is open source software?

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What is open source software exactly and how does it work? Open source software is used for a number of things and it is beneficial because users can alter the source code, which means you can personalize it. Some of the common open source software programs that are commonly used are Microsoft Access, Excel and Word. When you purchase software, it comes in a version known as "ready" so you can alter the program but not actually alter the code. This means you won't see the source code so you can't accidently ruin the program. The open source software is one that can offer access to the coding so you can alter it and change it to be more like your companies needs.

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Uses of CRM software

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Smart companies know that the customer is the king and that the customer is always right. Whatever the circumstances are, you need to recognize that your customers are your biggest and most valuable asset. You need a training method that helps your employees to understand this and you really do need to find programs that track your customer's satisfaction level and to find ways to improve on it. CRM software is something that will be able to help any company. CRM software is a great asset because it aids in customer happiness and allows for you to be able to gather information about the services that are being offered to them and how they are allowing your company to grow. Properly preparing and maintaining these records will be able to go a long way in allowing you to have better relationships with your customers as you can learn their preferences and find better ways to interact with them. These interactions can come through more marketing messages but they may also come from other systems as well such as the way your floor employees speak to the customers.

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Understanding Rational Unified Process

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What is a rational unified process and how does it work exactly? Rational unified process or RUP is known as division of IBM and it is used with the production of software. The RUP program is created in order to provide you with templates along with guidelines that help you to develop programs and other things. The RUP program is created in a 4 stage program. Here are the different stages and how they work exactly:

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Understanding computer software utilities

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When working with a computer system, you have several types of utilities that are commonly used. There are 2 large groups to understand and then a series of smaller utilities. The primary categories are system software and application software. Then you have the computer programs that fall under your system software. This is your Microsoft Word and other programs that you commonly use to make the computer effective for your needs. The system software is related to your computer programs along with the hardware for the system as well. All of them together will make the computer run effectively and will allow you to keep up with all of your tasks and things.

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How does an API work?

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Software development allows you to create amazing programs and will make your entire company user friendly and easier for your customers to appreciate and to use. With is an API and how does it impact you? For a lot of people you don't realize that an API is, this article will help to shed some light on it. When you use the internet, you are actually using an API without realizing it. API is short for Application Programming Interface.

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How can software prevent carpal tunnel?

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If you are like most computer users, you likely have some pain with carpal tunnel syndrome or at least wrist pain. This is a problem for a lot of people and it has been a plague for years. When you use your hands and wrists a lot and you start to feel numbness in the fingers and hands, you are experiencing carpal tunnel syndrome. Writers commonly experience this but it is also common to see this happening with pregnant women and many others. If carpal tunnel syndrome is severe enough, it can actually cause people to miss work and to start getting on medications to reduce swelling along with wearing wrist splints wherever you go to try and reduce the pain.

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Application software and system software

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There are numerous software programs out there and not too many of us really know what all of them are nor how do we know how they are used and how they work. There are some programs that enable us to keep better records while others are strictly for gaming and fun purposes. Application software and system software are two very different things and it is important to understand how they work and what they are in order to use them effectively. Let's discuss what application software is along with system software so you will be able to see the differences and to see what your computer programs are along with the documents you create.

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How to choose an anti-virus program

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Viruses have become the bane of computer users everywhere. Virtually everyone has a story of having deal with a computer intruder that exposes the vulnerability of their computer. In addition, with the rise of the internet, the chances of accidentally downloading a virus onto your computer has risen at an alarming rate. This makes even more crucial that you have the right anti-virus software on your computer. These programs can protect your computer, from all sorts of viruses and the problems they cause. Here is what you need to know about how to choose an anti-virus program-

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Toshiba's wipe technology

manatcomputer16486602.jpgHaving all of the new technology on and for your computer can be a challenge.Many of the new technologies and software's that are becoming available cost a high amount of money and can take time to be delivered to you.Yet some of these technologies can be worth the wait and are defiantly worth the money.One of the newest technology programs that is available for you to purchase is Toshiba's wipe technology.This is a system that you can install onto your computer to keep your documents safe and secure.This can be very beneficial if your computer becomes lost or stolen or you decide to replace it with a newer model.Protecting yourself and your information is very important.There are many ways that your identity can be stolen.Don't let a lost or stolen computer be the way your identity gets taken or you personal information is given to the public.

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Fireworks vs Photoshop, which is better for your editing needs

laptopwithwebcamera45381702.jpgAre you in the editing business with web designs and/or with photographs?Or do you like to take photographs of your family and edit them?No matter what you do with your different web designs and photographs, having an editing program that works for you is a much needed factor.If you don't have a program that is easy for you to navigate around and make the changes you want to make, you will become very frustrated and your work will not be completed.Whether it is your personal items you are editing or your work you are editing, being frustrated can cause a lot of stress and grief.Find a program such as Fireworks or Photoshop that will work for you.

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The best apps for your iPhone or Blackberry

cellphones37025442.jpgWhen you upgrade to a new phone like the iPhone or Blackberry, there are so many apps out there that it can be hard to figure out which ones you really need and which ones are worthwhile. Finding a guide tohelp can be just as challenging as the `Users Guide' to iPhones and Blackberrys offer just the basic operating instructions to get the phone up and running and they don't offer any information about how to install apps or which ones are the best apps. Here is a guide to your new iPhone or Blackberry and the best apps for them.

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Are you ready for Microsoft Silverlight?

manoncomputer16487063.jpgWhen the 2010 Winter Olympics were being broadcast, you may have noticed a number of commercials promoting the latest and greatest release from Microsoft, know as Silverlight. What is Microsoft Silverlight and how is it going to change your computer?Right now there are 4 versions of Microsoft Silverlight. Silverlight 1 is installed on about 20-25 million computers and it has had a few kinks, so we are already up to Silverlight 4 and it has already been released. You can actually download Silverlight 4 right off the Microsoft website.

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Antivirus software options to protect your identity

accountant37004036.jpgWhen you are browsing the internet, it is common for a number of risks to come up that could compromise your identity and could potentially ruin your identity and your financial situation. Using antivirus software is a great way to protect your identity and to keep yourself safe when you are browsing online. The last thing you want is someone hacking into your computer and stealing your passwords and personal files.

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Software to make your business more effective

accountant37004036.jpgBusiness owners must pay attention to new forms of technology that could impact the way they do business. One area business owners cannot afford to be stingy on is their payroll software. Payroll is big part of your company. If you don't have sufficient money in your cash reserves to cover payroll, you will wind up in a dangerous situation. Employees deserve to be paid on time, without proper compensation, they may not want to work for your company anymore and they could refuse to come into work until they are paid.

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Software to help with graphic designing

twowomanhighfivingeachother22990915.jpgTo keep up with customer demands and growing technology advancements, several small businesses will overhaul their company logo and image. A good graphic designer can come up with a new image for your company to help it stay in touch with the future. However in a struggling economy, paying for a full-time graphic designer may not be an option for your company. A good alternative for business owners is to purchase some graphic design software and create the new company image on their own. Of course, you will need some understanding about graphic design and how to use publishing software like Quark and InDesign.

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A comparison of virus protection software

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There are many anti virus programs for the computer users. The major companies are Norton, MacAfee, Panda, Trend Micro Systems and many email companies are now scanning messages using these anti virus packages. About 80% of the computers on the internet have spyware and adware issues because of this email protection.

There were so many from Yahoo, AOL etc who were hit.

The issues with anti virus software is, do the customers get instructions to turn this off in order to connect to their internet, then forget to turn it back on? The answer is `yes' a lot of the time. It is majorly important to realize that a computer should be loaded with 1 virus protection program.

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What are your digital video editing software options

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What are your digital video editing software options? There are several different digital video editing software options available. Here are some basics on a few different editing software options.

Power Director

This software runs around $80.00. Has a great rating for design. The ease of use, installation and tools and options are great. Their help and support are awesome. In addition the video capture and playback are wonderful. This software is considered to be one of the best.

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Using the software that comes with your digital video camera

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Congratulations on your digital video camera purchase!It is likely that you had many reasons for buying a digital video camera and now it is time to really take advantage of your purchase.One of the most exciting things that you are able to do with your digital video camera is to use it in conjunction with the software that came with your video camera to create fabulous home movies or to make fun artistic movies of your own.Whatever your plans are there are a few things that you will need to know about that software that was either included in your purchase r that you bought as a package with your digital video camera.

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Best software choices for digital video

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Digital video is a fun and convenient way to capture memories of the people and places that you love.Digital video has many advantages.Digital video offers a clarity, flexibility and creativity that cannot really be met by traditional tape recorders.Digital videos are an easy way to capture memories and allow you to add some creative and personal touches of your own.

Software choices for digital video are as diverse as the people who use them.Software for digital video can be as simple as uploading your video to your camera or editing a full length film.Different people will be looking for software that can do different things for them and thus it is difficult to pinpoint what may be the best overall software choice for digital video.There are however different top choices depending on your digital video needs.

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A look at video editing software

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If you have ever visited the website YouTube you might be wondering about how the people were able to edit their videos on the computer and then post them to the internet, on websites such as YouTube. And the great news is that the answer to that question is actually rather easy to answer. These people are able to edit their videos and publish them on the internet through the use of video editing software. Basically what video editing software allows you to do is to edit home movies, create DVD menus, and add certain effects to your home movies so that you can publish them on the internet. The thing is that some video editing software is better than others because it allows you to do more things with your home videos.

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Options for Digital Video Editing Software

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There are many options for digital video editing software out there. Professional software to amateur software brings a buffet of choices for the consumer videographer. No matter what kind of videographer you are, there is something out there that offers the things needed to complete a project.

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Choosing Digital Video Editing Software

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Choosing digital video editing software can be a headache. There are so many options to choose from that one can easily become disheveled. Editing software ranges from the extremely professional complicated use to the extremely cheap "does it for you" interface. The bottom line is the software needs to do exactly what you want it to do. Don't waste your time with really neat looking digital video software that you found at Best Buy when it costs way too much and does things that you wouldn't be able to figure out easily. Before going out and spending the big bucks for your software, make a list. List all of the things that the software needs to do. Go online and look around a bit at other people's expectations and see what the bare bone requirements should be for the software. Here is a list of things to start with, but read up and add to it.

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How To Find Reviews on Digital Video Editing Software

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Bill is out shopping for digital video editing software for his new computer and is being bombarded with sales pitches from every vendor he encounters. What should he do? The digital video editing software systems all seem to do great and wonderful things, but he cannot decide. Whom does he believe? The smartest thing for him to do at this point is: One, leave the store and go home. Two, go and read reviews about the software he has seen. It is important to know how to find reviews for digital video editing software for several reasons. Digital video editing software is going to be the tool spent the most time within the creation of videos, take up the most space on the computer hard drive (including digital video), and it is just downright expensive for the good ones.

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What is RSS video aggregator and how does it improve your videocasting

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What is RSS video aggregator?
An RSS aggregator put simply is a software application, or remotely hosted service, that collects content from disparate sources and provides a single consolidated view.

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Affordable videocasting software choices

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Videocasting is the newest phenomenon in the internet marketing and internet communications world. It is podcasting, but with video feed instead of just audio. To videocast you need software, the following are some suggestions for affordable videocasting and podcasting software:

Windows videopodcast software- There are several options for videocasting and podcasting software for windows users. The following are categorized according to how popular they are:

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Where to find free podcasting software

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While the name podcasting software sounds all inclusive sometimes it is not. But regardless of is you choose all inclusive podcasting software or different types of software you can find them for free on the internet. The only difference between all inclusive podcasting software and different software is that all inclusive podcasting software includes everything you will need to make, create and publish your podcast in on one website. The different kinds of software will require downloads from more than one website.

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Finding the right podcasting software

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One of the most important things to podcasting is finding the right podcasting software, without it you will be unable to create podcasts for business or personal use. Here are some tips to help you in finding the right podcasting software.

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Tips on administering access control software

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When running any kind of business, you want to be able to control who was accessing information on your network, why they were accessing it, and what they were looking for.You want to be able to secure public and confidential information but also make it available to groups of people-partners, suppliers and employees.You also want to protect your network from identity theft or fraud, as well as guard other personal or private business information.You may need to access critical information at a given time but also need to have the information closed to certain people and open to others.

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Renting software over the Internet

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Renting software over the Internet is a fairly new concept.There are some great advantages to doing so, but there are also some drawbacks considering the infancy of the software rental market.It's definitely something you can look into without making a long-term commitment and if you don't care for it you can always go out, buy and install the software yourself.

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Where can i get free virus control software and which one is best

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Many of us use the internet and a computer. We use it to do our business and to conduct our personal lives. We use computers and the internet to design business models and to chat with a long lost friend. Computers are great communication tools. Emailing has changed the way we communicate with almost everyone. These days if you don't have a computer and do not email you are probably out of the loop. The internet is great and computers are necessary machines for our lives, but are there any down sides to these wonderful devices?

Besides their obvious complexity, another serious issue with computers is that they are susceptible to viruses. If you have ever had a virus on a computer you know what I mean. They get into the machine and destroy it. They slow it down and often make it impossible to use. A single virus can make an extremely good machine-one worth thousands of dollars-fall apart in a just a few minutes. It is amazing to think of it, but there are actually people out there who's only wish is to create this viruses to destroy your computer.

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Updating your software through online updates

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Your computer software changes with time to better provide new features and other helpful things to make it run smoothly. But you don't need to buy new software every time it is updated. Instead, you can easily update your software online to the latest versions by downloading the updates.

Why should you update your software?

Regardless of whether you use a Mac or a PC, you will need to update your software on occasion. This gives you access to more and to newer features. For example, if you have iTunes on your computer, as many people do, updating to the latest versions will allow you to preview movies and TV shows and even rent them.

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The best digital photography software for your company's needs

womanwithlaptop19182846.jpg When you start using digital photgraphy in your business, you need to ensure that you purchase the right kind of digital photography software.There are really two important components to digital photography:the digital camera itself, and the editing software that you use to edit, store, and organize your photos.

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How to decide which accounting software is best for your small business

laptopwithwebcamera45381702.jpg There are a number of different things that you need to consider when you are choosing a small business accounting software.Choosing an accounting software for your small business is a more difficult task than it might seem.

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How to choose the best software for your small business

womanwithlaptop30719462.jpg Choosing small business software is an important decision for any small business owner.Your software can either make your operations easier, streamline your organization, and place all of your information at your fingertips, or it can make your information inaccessible, slow down operations, waste time and money, and lead to confusion.

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Great hosting and web building software

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There are a lot of great things that you can do for your business. One thing that can be really helpful is to have a website. If you are looking into hosting a web site or building a website you might want to do some research. Here is some information on great hosting and web building software to help you get a better idea of what to look for.

First off you will want to know what hosting and web building are so that you can get an idea of what type of software you will want. Web hosting is where you actually have the server that you back up all of your information on. This can be expensive depending on the type of equipment your business already has. For example you are going to need to have a powerful server and not just some old pc that you have lying around. The next thing you will want to have is the right kind of software to host your website. You don't need to buy the most expensive software out there, but you will want to spend an adequate amount of money for software that is going to have what your company needs. You will also need to take into consideration when you are looking for different software that you are also going to have the cost of licensing your server software that is going to cost you more money. Usually you will find that server licenses are much higher than just having a client license where you use some one else's server to back your information on. You may also want to look closely when looking at different software at the number of users that can be on the server. This might be important if you have a large company that a lot of people will be backing up information on the server. You will also want to make sure that you check out the different security options that are included in each of the software. The reason for this is you want to make sure that your information stays classified. You may also want to consider software that includes 24 hour support. The reason for this is so if your server goes down or if you have problems with it you will be able to contact some one immediately so you don't risk losing vital information.

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Title: Best software for pod cast and video cast editing

e new technology nowadays, how are you ever going to find the best software for pod cast and video cast editing? You need to write down what you would like your software to do. There are many types that allow you to record, mix, share, publish, store and listen to pod cast feeds.

Where to Start
The internet is a savvy tool for everyone. You can download free pod cast software that is needed to download feeds (pod cast broadcasting) onto a mobile device or personal computer.

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Learning how to use new software, tips and tricks


While getting new software can be exciting because of the improvements and possibilities associated with it, new software can also be daunting and cause a lot of stress for those who are trying to learn how to use it.Learning how to use new software doesn't need to be scary or too difficult, especially with these tips and tricks:

1. Remember - it takes time to figure it out.
Don't expect to be an expert easily or without some study and practice. A new task or skill (as with any aspect of life, not just software) usually doesn't come completely naturally or becomes perfected without practice.

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Learning how to use new computer programs

Learning how to use new computer programs. It is no wonder that so many people look at a new computer program with confusion and concern. However, there is a base idea that can help you to learn how to use any new computer program.

The idea is very easy, however it does take a little to learn. Each computer program you experience has a basic use. They can be for working, fun, or simply use for a specific type of need. They thing about all the programs out there, is they have some similar basic features that make using that program easier.

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A comparison of virus protection software


There are many anti virus programs for the computer users. The major companies are Norton, MacAfee, Panda, Trend Micro Systems and many email companies are now scanning messages using these anti virus packages. About 80% of the computers on the internet have spyware and adware issues because of this email protection.

There were so many from Yahoo, AOL etc. who were hit.

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Best spyware programs available


Protection against spyware is important for your computer.Spyware is a nasty bug that gets into your computer and gives the wrong people access to your person files and information.If you wanted to share it, you would be posting it online, right?Protect your information and your computer.

Getting the right protection can help you feel confident when you log on to the internet.There are many programs available to download that will protect your computer.Some of these are free, and others will be a small investment.If you choose to spend a little bit of money on one you will not regret it.

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Gaming systems, which is the best for your money?


Are you a serious gamer?Do you like to spend your time playing different types of video games?Video games and systems are a really fun and entertaining way to spend your time!However, gaming systems can also be really expensive, and you want to make sure that you are getting the best deal for your money.Part of the way you can determine what the best gaming system is for you, is by determining what type of games you actually would like to play.For example, the Nintendo Wii is a very different type of gaming system than Sony Playstation.Before determining anything regarding a game system, you first need to determine what type of gaming system you will like.This way, you will be sure to pick a type of gaming system that you will enjoy!There are a couple of different gaming systems that have good systems and competitive prices.Here are some of the best gaming systems for your money:

1) Xbox 360:This gaming system was listed recently as the best gaming system that is available.The confusing thing is that there are three different Xbox 360 systems that are available.The core system is probably the best priced, but it is probably not the best that you will get for your money, particularly because there is no hard drive.The core system is competitively priced at $299.However, for a hundred dollars more ($399), you can get the Xbox 360 Pro System which allows you to not only store games, but also arcade titles and music!Another great feature about Xbox 360 is that you can pay against your friends through an online set-up.However, you should be aware that you have to pay an annual fee of $50 to tap into this fun additional requirement.Although you do need to pay a little bit more for this really great system, it is definitely worth it!You will not find a better system for your money.There are also a lot of really great games which are available with Xbox 360, such as "Dead Rising" and "Gears of War."Another huge game, "Halo 3," is expected to be released soon.With these games, Greenwald has said that the Xbox 360 has a great advantage over other gaming systems.In addition, Greenwald has said that the Xbox 260 is best system that is available for you right now, particularly with the best online console system.So, if you want the best gaming system for your money, look into the Xbox 360!

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Best most technologically advanced gaming systems


If you are shopping around for a gaming system, you are probably looking for the best and the most technologically advanced gaming system that you can possibly buy.So what is the best and the most technologically advanced gaming system?Well, the answer is pretty simple, actually: the best gaming system is the one that best fits your needs and your gaming style.In terms of technology, there are three gaming systems that blow all of the other gaming systems out of the water, and they have all come out in the last few years: the Xbox 360, the PlayStation 3, and the Nintendo Wii.

So should you choose an Xbox 360, the PlayStation 3, or the Nintendo Wii?Which one is the best and the most technologically advanced gaming system?It really doesn't matter which one you choose in terms of how good its technology is, as all three gaming systems are essentially the same in terms of how technologically advanced they are.However, there are some different variables that you need to think about when choosing a gaming system.Keeping the following aspects and considerations in mind will help you find the best gaming system for your gaming needs.

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A look at the video editing software Final Cut

Here is a closer look at the video editing software Final Cut. Final Cut is one of the top editor choices for editing video. The reason is that you can get a higher level of quality from the videos through this software than most others.

The digital non-linear editing opens the door for several options that you would ever have thought possible. If you are working in a group or alone, you will see that the control and power for creating better video really will be at your fingertips with Final Cut.

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Best software and printer for photos

Now that almost everybody owns a digital camera, more and more people are forgetting about that unnecessary hassle of a trip to the local photo developer and instead are choosing just to print off their own photos when they want, for the size they want, and for a cheaper price.However, how can you decide on the best software for your photos?and what about the best printer for your photo?There are so many different printers and photo software out there that are available for consumers to choose from; here are some of the best software and printers for photos that were released in 2007.

Best printers for photos

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A look at the newest and best software for cyber security

One of the biggest worries that most people have when it comes to their computers is how they can make sure that they have adequate cyber security.And if you're not worried about keeping dangerous people from getting onto your computer and/or stealing all of your personal information as it's being sent across the world, then you should be worried about cyber security and Internet security threats.

There are a number of new and highly effective Internet security software suites that provide excellent cyber security for your computer, whether it is your personal computer or a computer that you use at work.It is important that you consider what security programs are most important to you, and that you purchase either an Internet security software suite that will allow you to customize the security features that are most important to you, or that you purchase individual security programs that will let you customize your approach to security.

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Software every computer should have


Software, whatever computer should have to function properly. Software is what makes the computer we use function, do what we need it to do, and actually make it think. This is because with all the parts, without the instructions, the computer would simply not move. We all know this if you have ever had issues with the software your computer has go bad. The reason is that the steps that the computer takes are simply done by following those instructions in the software.

The physical components or hardware of your computer execute these instructions and work with the software as a team. Therefore, without one the other cannot function. There are specific software options that every computer should have to function for the most effective use.

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How much memory do I need for computer ipod laptop etc

Wondering how much memory you need for your computer, your laptop, or your iPod?How much memory do I need for computer, iPod, laptop, etc.?Determining the amount of memory that you need for any of your electronic devices depends on what you will be using your computer for and the type of computer or electronic device that you need.Fortunately, it is easy to upgrade your computer and to add more memory through the use of external hard drives or any other memory upgrade.

Novice / administrative use
If you only need to use your computer for sending and receiving email and for some document preparation with a word processing program, you should be fine with only 64MB of memory.But it is definitely to your advantage to upgrade to at least 128MB of memory.

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5 Tips for making your technology secure

1. Anti-Virus Software - Install anti-virus software on your computer.You should have two anti-virus programs.One should be on-line and the other should be on your desktop.This will help your computer detect incoming viruses and alert you of these.To also help from receiving viruses, via email. You can't be too careful of opening attachments.You should only open attachments from people you know.You should also be careful when installing programs.Sometimes when installing programs, other unnecessary programs will be installed at the same time.It is a good idea to scan the instillation file for viruses before installing the program.And remember that extra programs (especially not needed ones) will, or at least could, cause your computer to slow down.Another thing to be aware of is spam mail.Spam mail is very dangerous and could contain viruses.Your email provider will sometimes recognize spam mail and automatically send it to a spam folder.Do not open spam mail! Also be aware of chain letters.Do not pass those on.
2. Anti-Spyware Software - It is a good idea to install anti-spyware on your computer.Spyware monitors which websites you go to and will send a list back to central data collection points. You could, without knowing, leak important information such as passwords and credit card details.There are many anti-spyware programs out there.There are even some you can download online for free.It is important to remember that not all spyware is bad, but anti-spyware software will detect the spyware that is harmful to your computer.

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5 Tips for making your technology secure

1. Anti-Virus Software - Install anti-virus software on your computer.You should have two anti-virus programs.One should be on-line and the other should be on your desktop.This will help your computer detect incoming viruses and alert you of these.To also help from receiving viruses, via email. You can't be too careful of opening attachments.You should only open attachments from people you know.You should also be careful when installing programs.Sometimes when installing programs, other unnecessary programs will be installed at the same time.It is a good idea to scan the instillation file for viruses before installing the program.And remember that extra programs (especially not needed ones) will, or at least could, cause your computer to slow down.Another thing to be aware of is spam mail.Spam mail is very dangerous and could contain viruses.Your email provider will sometimes recognize spam mail and automatically send it to a spam folder.Do not open spam mail! Also be aware of chain letters.Do not pass those on.
2. Anti-Spyware Software - It is a good idea to install anti-spyware on your computer.Spyware monitors which websites you go to and will send a list back to central data collection points. You could, without knowing, leak important information such as passwords and credit card details.There are many anti-spyware programs out there.There are even some you can download online for free.It is important to remember that not all spyware is bad, but anti-spyware software will detect the spyware that is harmful to your computer.

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How to backup important files, and keep them safe

Imagine this: you've been working on an important project for work, with the deadline rapidly approaching.You spend the entire day trying to finish up so that you can go home at a reasonable hour.You finally finish up, tidy your desk and go home.The next day, you come into the office only to notice that your computer screen is dark.That's funny, since you don't remember turning if off.You sit down at your desk and push the "on" button.Nothing happens.You try again, but quickly move away when you notice the burning smell and smoke coming from your computer.Unfortunately for you, your computer is fried.There was a lightening storm that night and your computer suffered the consequences.You have lost personal and professional data.You lost your entire project with the deadline now staring you in the face.What are you going to do?

Unfortunately, nothing can help your lost data.But you can be prepared for the next time such a disaster strikes.The way to do this is to backup your important files.Eventually, everyone faces a data disaster of some sort.But unless all of your electronic files are expendable, you should be making backup copies of your most important data on a regular basis.Here's how.

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How to backup important files, and keep them safe

Imagine this: you've been working on an important project for work, with the deadline rapidly approaching.You spend the entire day trying to finish up so that you can go home at a reasonable hour.You finally finish up, tidy your desk and go home.The next day, you come into the office only to notice that your computer screen is dark.That's funny, since you don't remember turning if off.You sit down at your desk and push the "on" button.Nothing happens.You try again, but quickly move away when you notice the burning smell and smoke coming from your computer.Unfortunately for you, your computer is fried.There was a lightening storm that night and your computer suffered the consequences.You have lost personal and professional data.You lost your entire project with the deadline now staring you in the face.What are you going to do?

Unfortunately, nothing can help your lost data.But you can be prepared for the next time such a disaster strikes.The way to do this is to backup your important files.Eventually, everyone faces a data disaster of some sort.But unless all of your electronic files are expendable, you should be making backup copies of your most important data on a regular basis.Here's how.

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5 Tips for securing personal information at work

There is always a worry in the work setting that personal information is not secure.Personal information includes any information that expresses facts or judgments about individuals.This information can include names, birthdays, occupation, title, credit card numbers, social security numbers, and other information that is individually assigned.If you worry about securing personal information at work, look at these 5 tips to help you make sure personal information is secure:

1. User ID and Password - All employees should have their own User ID and password for computer networks.They should not share this information with anyone.If they do, they run the risk of someone else getting access to their personal information.Passwords should be changed regularly.Passwords should consist of numbers, letters, and symbols and should be impossible for someone to guess.Employers should have access to employees' user ID's, but not passwords.Passwords should be chosen by employees.Employers should have an alternate way of accessing employee's information on the network (within the limits of the law).

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5 tips for upgrading to the latest technology

Upgrading to the latest technology is important, here are 5 tips on how to do it:
1. Research - The first thing you need to do is to do some research and find out what technology upgrades are out there.You need to decide which upgrades are necessary.You want to research to see how others are liking the upgraded technology.Sometimes you need to give new technology awhile so they can work out any problems that might be wrong with it at first.After you know the upgrade is safe and worth getting, you can upgrade.Before upgrading, you need to compare the pros and cons of different upgrades.Compare prices and information about each upgrade.This will help you to determine which upgrade is the best for you.If you upgrade your technology through downloading something on the Internet, make sure you are not downloading extra programs and software that you do not need.This will slow your computer down and could create security issues.You want to only upgrade programs that are necessary.

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How do I put videos on YouTube?

You can upload videos to YouTube fairly quickly and easily.You will have to sign up and have a profile in order to do so.This is so that you tube can track where the videos come from.Becoming a member also allows you to save videos, create playlists, and leave comments among several other features.

The best settings for quality video are as follows:
- MPEG4 (Divx, Xvid) format
- 320x240 resolution
- MP3 audio
- 30 frames per second
Resizing your video to these specifications before uploading will help your videos look better on YouTube.However, YouTube accepts video files from most digital cameras, camcorders, and cell phones in the .WMV, .AVI, .MOV, and .MPG file formats too.

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How can Google Analytics goal process help me build my business?

The end goal in this scenario would be the customer fills out a survey after making a purchase.Of course each path will vary, but this is the desired path for the customers to make.You could track how many customers only purchased once if they didn't visit the `get to know the company' page.If you find they don't return, then you may need to force people to this page before they can make purchases or include the information on the home page.

The goal process will have to be entered specifically into the Google Analytics site.Then you can track the goal to see how many of your customers are making the desired path.This is basically how you can make the reports more dynamic for your website instead of depending on Google Analytic to make and report statistics generically.

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Conversion to Microsoft Vista - is it worth it?


You may or may not want to convert to the new windows operating system, windows vista.You will have to analyze your personal situation and decide if the advantages are worth the money.Most operating systems are purchased with a new computer.Windows Vista will most likely remain in that trend and most people will only convert when they upgrade their computer.

Windows Vista is the first operating system to be released by Microsoft since Windows XP, more than five years ago.Windows XP is not perfect, but it has gone through several revisions and upgrades to patch obvious holes and deficiencies.Windows Vista is barely out of the Beta phase and not all of the issues and problems have been identified yet.You may want to wait a little longer before you upgrade to Windows Vista.

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How can Google Analytics goal process help me build my business?

Why don't running programs show in my taskbar

Once upon a time there was a task bar.(You know-that bar at the bottom of your screen that has the "start" button at one end and the time at the other end).You used to be able to see your task bar.You used to be able to see running programs in your taskbar.You could even click on those items and switch between programs.And then a dreadful thing happened.

They disappeared!

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Why won't my system recognize my usb device?

Why won't my system recognize my usb device?This is a great question.It's a great question because it happens all the time-your computer is on, you're ready to work, you plug in your usb device, and.nothing.It was just working!What's going on?Why is it that all of a sudden nothing is showing up?You know that your computer can recognize it, but why won't it?In fact, just as I was starting to write this article, my computer decided that it no longer wanted to recognize the usb device that I had been using for the last couple hours, that was still plugged in to the computer, but I guess that the computer had had enough of usb devices for the day.

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Renting software over the Internet

Renting software over the Internet is a fairly new concept.There are some great advantages to doing so, but there are also some drawbacks considering the infancy of the software rental market.It's definitely something you can look into without making a long-term commitment and if you don't care for it you can always go out, buy and install the software yourself.

The main idea behind renting software is that you or your business can "rent" access to software over an Internet connection rather than buying it and installing it on your desktop.An Internet company, often known as an ASP or application service provider hosts the software and usually charges customers on a per-use basis or they charge a monthly fee for unlimited use.To use the software, you go to your provider's (ASP's) web site and log in to start working.For example, say you own a company with 100 computers.Employees needing access to Microsoft Word on a daily basis operate fifteen of these computers.Rather than buying the program and getting fifteen licenses for use on these computers, you can "rent" access to the software and pay a monthly fee for unlimited access.Now suppose you also have fifty of those employees that occasionally use Microsoft Excel programs.You don't want to invest a lot of money into buying a program that is seldom used, so you can "rent" access to this software and pay per-use.Whenever these employees need to make a spreadsheet, they simply go to the ASP's web site, enter their login information and start working.

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Can I use Outlook Express or Outlook to access my MSN Hotmail account?

Can I use Outlook Express or Outlook to access my MSN Hotmail account?This is a great question for a number of different reasons.Both Outlook Express/Outlook and MSN Hotmail are part of the vast MSN empire.MSN stands for MicroSoft Network.Outlook Express and Outlook are like MSN Hotmail in that they are all email clients.You can use all three to view, read, manage, organize, write, and send your emails.The difference lies in what you have to do to use them.Outlook Express and Outlook are stand alone email clients.That means that you don't have to be online and go through a webpage to use them.If you are surfing the web and see an email address, and you want to send an email to that particular person, whether it's a journalist whose article you want to respond to or Support that you want to contact, you click on that hotlink email.Chances are that then the email client that will come up is Outlook or Outlook Express.MSN Hotmail differs from Outlook and Outlook Express.It's a free email service (unless you use MSN Hotmail Premium), and like most free email services, you can only access MSN Hotmail online, through the webpage.

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Can I get someone's name and address from their IP address?

Can I get someone's name and address from their IP address?This is a great question.There are a lot of myths and rumors that swirl around the Internet about IP addresses.I read a question on one message board on which a very, very concerned parent asked about IP addresses and stalkers.Apparently, this poor woman's kid had posted something rather mean and unflattering on someone else's blog or something like that.The owner of the website then replied to the kid.He told this kid that he had his IP address, and so he now knew his exact home address, his phone number, his name, his social security number, had access to credit cards and bank accounts, knew his work address, and basically every single confidential and private piece of information that you could know about a person and, of course, that he was going to come and get this poor kid.

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I have no C drive but some programs insist on it. What can I do?

You may or may not have a C: drive on your computer.You don't have to have one.However, some programs want to be installed on the C: drive only.In these cases we can create a virtual C: drive on the hard drive that you do have.

The C: hard drive is assumed to be the boot drive.However, any drive could be assigned to be the boot drive.The boot drive is where all of the start up programs are held. Most computers have the C: drive as the boot drive so some programs insist on being loaded in that directory.If this is the case, you can make a virtual drive to act as the C: drive.

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Understanding XML Server

XML Server can be a Web Server that stores the XML files in it and serves them on demand. The XML Server would have processing capabilities with an XML engine and to transform the XML document to other forms. Basically a server which hosts and serves the XML documents is called a XML Server.

There are many commercially available XML Servers in the market. The popular among them are the Tamino Server, the Sonic Server and the FDX XML Server. Though the basic functions of these servers are same the way they are implemented and the features that they support varies.

The Tamino XML Server is from Software AG and is used to publish and exchange all kinds of data especially the XML documents in the native format. It handles open standards. Leveraging on the XML technologies will improve an organizations data access.

In traditional relational databases, data is stored in rows and columns which can be too complex. But in the case of an XML Server such complexity is avoided and any data can be stored which includes even multimedia files and even relational data. These data can be easily retrieved at lightning speed using a Tamino XML Server.

To retrieve data that is requested by any application, XQuery is used in Tamino XML Server. This server implements the XQuery specification draft. Hence queries on the server can be issued using the internet and data can be returned in any format by using XSL style sheets. Thus the customers can manipulate the format of presentation of the data that is presented using style sheets. High speed retrieval of data is possible in XML Server.

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Software Process Improvement -A Successful Journey

Background:
For many organizations like ours, the interim target of achieving ISO 9001 or CMM levels is a daunting task. Discipline is no fun -Organizations readily acknowledge that striving to address projects according to ISO 9001 or CMM guidelines requires the creation of new procedures. It is vital to the success of improvement efforts to realize that process change entails cultural change and its human nature to resist change. Numerous social and technical barriers must be overcome to effect lasting improvement.

My organization aimed for ISO 9001 certification and then CMM level 2 and Level 3 assessment approximately one and half year back and knew that it would be grilled thoroughly by the ISO auditors and CMM assessors. For Software Process Improvement first we need to know your strengths and weaknesses so that the management can scope the improvement effort. Only with this knowledge can we customize an infrastructure for process improvement. We have had success with plans tailored according to the Software Engineering Institute's CMM model. This includes formation of Software Process Engineering Group, who know their roles, responsibilities, charters, and action plans, which helps you develop a charter and vision and to establish a clear match to organizational goals and objectives. They will be much more effective if they receive the right formal and informal training. One pivotal decision was "not to reinvent the wheel", but seriously consider Industry Best Practices.

Later we saw that, Process improvement always pays dividends for those with the discipline to do it right.

Process Improvement Project

The Strategic Plan

A clear vision is essential to the success of process improvement project. Senior management in our case had the vision that Process is Product and was committed to sponsor and support improvement efforts. We were responsible for mobilizing people and resources to try and make it happen, but process improvement was a new endeavor for my group and everyone was unsure how to get started and get organized My organization went for strategic planning using Total Quality Management's Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle.

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15 Questions to Ask Your Software Vendor

When making a decision to buy any piece of software there are a number of criteria typically evaluated. One of the most important elements in the decision process is the strength of the company that builds the software. In fact a survey of 19,000 customers has identified that company strength is the most important factor in choosing software, with the price of the software being the fifth most important element.

In evaluating a company's strength I would suggest you ask the following 15 questions, the answers to which will provide invaluable information in determining the viability of the company, their processes and their commitment to the product you are reviewing.

1. How long have you been in business?

2. When was you last upgrade released? When is the next one planned?

3. What's involved in doing an upgrade?

a. Can your customer's do it?
b. Are upgrades included in your annual fee?
c. Are they downloadable from your website?
d. Is documentation (installation instructions etc) included with the upgrades?

4. Are manuals available for the software?

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Intro to UNIX Shells

A UNIX Shell is in simplest terms, a command line interpreter, that takes the users input and gives it to the Kernel. If you are familiar with DOS, you will remember the 'command.com' that file takes the users information and passes it to the operating system in a way it can be understood by the system. With DOS you only had one type of shell, but with UNIX you have a variety, each with their own abilities, pluses and minuses.

Keep in mind as you read about these shells, that though they may have major differences when they were created, that they have been updated and many features that were once only available in a single shell, may be available in other shells. This is more of a history lesson.

'sh'
The Bourne shell, named after its creator Steve Bourne is the oldest shell for most major distributions of UNIX and LINUX. Most shells today are in some fashion derived from the Bourne shell.

'csh'
The C Shell. The C shell is a great shell that has many advantages over the original Bourne shell, it was the first to introduce a history (the ability to scroll up, to view past commands). Also the C Shell as the name implies also integrates a great portion of the C programming language. If you are able to program in C, you can pretty much do it all in a shell script or from the command line, if you so desired.

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A Simple Computer Software Definition

What is Software?

Software is a set of instruction written to interface between man and machine.

Who writes this instructions?

Programmers writes this instructions.

How the programmers write the instructions /software?

They use computer languages to write software applications.

Software can be divided into three main categories:

Languages
Applications
Operating Systems (OS)

LANGUAGE:

It is one of the software type, use to write extensive applications and operating systems It did not contains any limitations in programming. By using the languages you can write any thing for a computer.

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Microsoft Great Plains FA: Fixed Assets - Overview For Consultant

Great Plains Fixed Assets Management module is a robust tool that can help you manage your assets effectively. It integrates perfectly with other Great Plains modules like General Ledger, Purchase Order Processing, and Payables Management ensuring accuracy while reducing redundant data entry.

As with other Great Plains modules, save time and money by utilizing classes or groups to make mass changes. This is useful for depreciating, retiring, or simply changing the information for a set of assets with a single click. Great Plains' intuitive graphical user interface makes it easy to access supporting data on assets, books, etc. The latest versions of Great Plains Fixed Asset also comes with a total of 16 depreciation methods covering diverse industries for compatibility with company preferences. You also have the option to back depreciation out, recalculate, add additional depreciable amount, and project depreciation for years ahead for any number of assets in your book.

Features:

- Easy Asset Setup - Create and manage and unlimited number of books of assets for each company, including corporate, federal tax, alternative minimum tax, and more.

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Does your Company have Documentum?

Are you lost in the mess of documents that get passed around your company, never knowing what the latest version is and which one you should work on without worrying if someone else has already made the same editions that you are making? Perhaps you have heard of collaboration software solutions such as Documentum to help your company manage its documents that are passed around. Documentum is a very good solution to this problem but is it the only one? In this article you will be presented with some basic information about the differences in collaboration software from Documentum and NextPage.


What is collaboration software?

Collaboration software allows business professionals to work directly with other business professionals by allowing them to work together to create business documents, presentations, and budgets. Most collaboration software is centralized. This allows business professionals to work on the same documents at the same time from different locations. Some centralized collaboration software solutions include Groove Network, Microsoft SharePoint, Documentum, and Filenet.


Why use Documentum?

There are a few advantages to using centralized collaboration software such as Documentum. The main advantage being that they work very well for team collaboration. Documentum's software keeps all files, projects, and data in one centralized location that everyone who is working on the project can access. This allows them to review and update the same document that everyone else has used, which essentially keeps everyone working on the same page.

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S is for Spying, Surveillance -- and for Software as Well

Words we choose to describe things and phenomena often show our attitude towards what we say. They imperceptibly reflect our opinions and judgments, prejudices and preferences, moral convictions and beliefs. Whether we like it or not, good deal of words we use are biased, or should I say "slanted", --positively or negatively. Two people will call the same thing differently, depending on their points of view.

Look at this example: "Monitoring", "surveillance", "control", "data interception", "gathering evidence of wrongdoing" -- on the one hand; "sleuthing", "spying", "eavesdropping", "snooping", "peeping", "prying", "tapping"--on the other. A neutral "information gathering device" vs. negatively loaded "bug"--choice of words clearly shows whether we approve or disapprove it.

If you feel you have right to do so, you are "monitoring my kids' online behavior"; your resentful kids, however, might think you are to poking your nose into their lives. The same at work--but here it is you who is the person under surveillance, and your opinion might differ from the CEO's, who probably thinks that "workplace surveillance software improves employees' performance and prevents violations of security policy and corporate code of conduct" (or something similar).

Most of arguments on this issue start right here; the crucial point is whether those who perform monitoring are authorized to do so.

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Groove Network. Are you in it?

If you are in a business that passes documents around to be reviewed and edited over and over before they are ready to be posted for advertising or for a client, then you have probably already heard of a software solution to help keep your "floating" documents organized from Groove Network. You may not be aware that there is another option out there. In this article you will be presented with some basic information about the differences in collaboration software from Groove Network and NextPage.

Idea behind collaboration software.

The central idea behind having collaboration software is that it allows business professionals to work directly with other business professionals by allowing them to work together to create business documents, presentations, and budgets. Most collaboration software is centralized. This allows business professionals to work on the same documents at the same time from different locations. Some centralized collaboration software solutions include Groove Network, Microsoft SharePoint, Documentum, and Filenet.

Groove Network Advantages.

There are a few advantages to using centralized collaboration software such as Groove Network. The main advantage being that they work very well for team collaboration. Groove Network's software keeps all files, projects, and data in one centralized location that everyone who is working on the project can access. This allows them to review and update the same document that everyone else has used, which essentially keeps everyone working on the same page.

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What is Groupware?

Vince Lombardi once said that, "The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined effort of each individual." If this is the case, then what do we need to do in order to insure success in our companies? How can we combine the efforts of each individual as Mr. Lombardi said was so key to the success of a particular organization? While there are many possible solutions to these questions, I have found something that will help your company become more organized, and your employees more unified in their work. I am talking about groupware.

What is Groupware?

Groupware is software that facilitates the communication between the members of a network workgroup. It allows people within a company, whether they are physically in the same location or in several locations all over the world, to share documents, information, and data. It allows them to collaborate on ideas and projects, by allowing them to essentially work on the same page at the same time. With groupware there is no limit to the number of people that can work on the same project without creating duplicate ideas and work. Since groupware can track all document information, you will never wonder if you are using the latest version of a document.

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Most Dangerous Types of Spyware are on the Rise: How to Choose the Weapon

Bad News - the Threat is Bigger than it Seemed

How recently it was - when even many journalists thought that spyware gathers mostly information to be used for targeted advertising. Definitions like "spyware, a.k.a. adware, is..." were pretty common in articles. Keyloggers and system monitors were mentioned as dangerous, but relatively rare. Until the Spy Audit survey made by ISP Earthlink and Webroot Software clearly showed - they are not rare at all.

The results of the survey are here:

https://www.earthlink.net/spyaudit/press/ and https://www.earthlink.net/about/press/pr_spyauditsurvey/

Reading them will be time well-spent for everybody who uses Internet and at least sometimes deals with information valuable enough to be stolen; in fact, it means just everybody.

"Industry experts suggest that these types of programs [i.e. spyware in general] may reside on up to 90 percent of all Internet-connected computers" - that's the exact quote. Considering the number of computers scanned during this survey (which lasted for a whole year 2004), there is nothing left but to come to the conclusion - it must be true to fact.

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4 Computer Money-saving Tips

Here are four tips that'll save you money when buying your next computer.

Tip #1 -- Rebates: A rebate is not always a bargain. Computers with rebates are often close to being discontinued. You may pick up a good deal or purchase technology that's about to become yesterday's news. What's more, stores will often package computers with a bunch of free items to make it look like you're getting more value. Chances are the extras are either poor quality or items you're unlikely to use. Also, they're counting on you to not redeem your rebate, a very common occurrence.

Tip #2 -- Extended Service Warrantees: Buyer Beware! They're a gamble, but not always a bad idea. If you're purchasing a laptop and you plan to travel a lot, an extended warranty that covers replacement of the monitor/display can be a good gamble. Replacing a display can cost $400-$600, making the warranty worthwhile. On the other hand, if you plan on buying the warranty for routine maintenance; save your money. Oftentimes it can take weeks for the store to send your PC out for service. Also, remember the store where you purchased your computer does not always do warranty work during the first year, instead you may have to ship it directly to the manufacturer. In general, extended warranties cover electronics [things you can't see]. They don't usually cover physical damage. Most extended warranties have large gray areas, leaving the warranty provider a lot of room to reject claims.

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Two Reasons to Use Timesheet Software

This short paper will expand on two key reasons to move to a computerized timesheet system at your company. There are more than two reasons of course, but these will be expanded on at a later date. The two key reasons to be discussed here are Timesheet Efficiency, and Timesheet Automation.

Timesheet Efficiency is the concept of a single data entry exercise done accurately and quickly. Timesheet Automation is the simple concept of managing timesheet information electronically rather than on paper. When taken individually both these concepts make a compelling argument to move to electronic timesheets, taken together you should be asking yourself why you aren't kicking off the process today.

Timesheet Efficiency

When I started out my working career in consulting we had paper timesheets. These were (supposedly) to be filled in daily, submitted weekly, and data from them entered into the accounting system monthly. However, people being people, the accountant only checked them once a month, so they were generally only submitted once a month, and thus usually only filled in once a month when prompted by project managers. This resulted in inaccurate and late timesheet information.

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Make or Break Factors - When Considering Estimating Software

Make-or-Break Factors in Success and Profitability

For quick printers, estimating can prove to be a major factor in the success or failure of their business.

When a customer requests a bid on a job, they need a fast turnaround, and the best price. For a printer, there are two important issues; first of course is the price and second the profit. If they price a job too high they might miss out on getting the job, and if they price it too low, this starts cutting into their potential profits.

Estimating software is a tool that helps eliminate this margin for error and make every printer's job easier. This ease is why estimating software is becoming an integral part for many companies in the printing and graphics industry. But what type of estimating software should a printer look for? With so many different companies selling estimating software it can become difficult to find a solution that is the right one.

For this reason Cyrious Software has taken on the role of business software consultants rather then focusing strictly on selling. When looking for a business management and estimating solution, the ability of a company to consult and guide you to the correct solution, be it theirs or someone else's, should be a major deciding factor. If a software company isn't willing to work to find a solution that specifically fits their business, it might be wise to find a different company to do business with.

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Comparing Data Recovery Software

DSoftware programmers recognize the importance of data files, and thankfully, they have been able to create products that demonstrate their understanding of how often people accidentally delete or lose important data. Thanks to software programmers and development companies, people have a variety of data recovery software programs available to purchase in the event they've lost vital data.

There are disk recovery applications that are specific to recovering files of a certain format, like graphics files as opposed to word document files, and there is software that can recover any type of lost file regardless of the format. If you've accidentally deleted an image on your digital camera, there is even software available to retrieve that!

It's important to take the time to research and compare each software program before purchasing one in order to make sure that it will have the best possible chance at retrieving your lost file. Remember that there is no program on the market that can guarantee recovery of every file, as there are simply too many factors and situations that effect whether or not a file can be retrieved once deleted or lost. You can increase your chances for recovery by selecting the appropriate program for the file you are trying to save.

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How to Evaluate Staffing Software

If you are in the market for new staffing software, I suspect that one of the most daunting of tasks will be to sift through the many vendors that are now servicing the staffing industry.

You will find many very qualified companies with good staffing software products. These products will utilize different technologies and different approaches to how they implement and train your company. The choices will be many, the approaches varied, and the results in some cases may be very good and in other cases you may find yourself with a staffing software solution that was over hyped and under delivered.

What can you do to insure the best possible result? Below are our six suggestions for evaluating staffing software and the companies that are providing those solutions:

1. Know what you want.

Spend time with the different players in your company and solicit their input on what your new solution should contain. Develop a decision matrix that you can use to evaluate the different staffing software solutions. Understand that no solution will match all of the requirements, at some point you will find that you may have to make a decision to exclude some desired features for the benefit of the total solution.

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Computer Phones - Facts and Fallacies

The stakes are high when considering security, privacy, and savings, and the old adage, "look before you leap" might be a more judicial approach when searching for a computer phone provider, aka VoIP (voice over internet protocol).

FACTS

- PC phones (VoIP) can save individuals and businesses up to 80% on current phone bills, regardless of whether calls are made from PC to landlines or mobile phones.

- Secure lines that include patented technology are protected against terminal viruses, worms, Trojan horses, unscrupulous hackers, and uninvited guests listening in on private conversations.

- Unsecure lines cripple users by creating dangerous vulnerability to security and privacy due to operating on open platforms or shared services.

- Over 90% of all VoIP provider services are on unsecure lines.

- Greater than 90% of VoIP solutions providers DO NOT HAVE their own patented technology.

Continue reading "Computer Phones - Facts and Fallacies"

A Time-Saving Programming Tactic that Doesn't Work

Let's say that you have a software project that's under severe time pressure. Let's say that this deadline is so tight that you already know it will involve many late nights of black coffee and frenetic programming. What can you do to make this process go faster?

I honestly don't know, since the correct answer will depend on one's individual circumstances. However, I can tell you how many programmers do respond under such circumstances. They decide to save time by skipping over the software planning and design phase, and immediately start coding away.

To an inexperienced or otherwise undisciplined programmer, this seems to make sense. After all, the finished product is what truly matters, right? The customer doesn't care about flowcharts, class diagrams or software architectures. All they want is something that works.

It seems to make sense, but it's a foolhardy approach. That way lies madness. We've all heard that an ounce of planning is worth a pound of cure, but in the world of software development, this adage is often forgotten.

If a real estate developer needs to get a house built quickly, does he save time by skipping over the architectural design phase? Does he decide to dispense with blueprints, and just start laying down concrete? Of course not. He knows that the results would be chaotic, and that work will progress more slowly without careful forethought and a concrete plan.

Continue reading "A Time-Saving Programming Tactic that Doesn't Work"

Eight Quick Tips For Stopping SPAM

If you are buried in SPAM then you're not alone. It's been suggested that as much as 50% to 75% of the e-mail traffic on any given day is SPAM. Reading through SPAM is a waste of your time and it subjects you to potential viruses, trojan horses, and sexual material which can be quite offensive. Here are some tips on how to win the SPAM war:

1. Use a throwaway email address when posting to public news groups and chat rooms and for your Yahoo or MS Messenger Chat accounts. You can get free email addresses at Yahoo, HotMail and other places. Use your personal ISP-provided email address only to communicate with trusted sources. If you are an AOL user then set up an additional email account to use for public posting purposes. When your free or spare email account starts getting abused just close it and open another.

2. Take the time to set up different email addresses for different purposes. Have one for business communications, another for personal and another one for shopping online. That way you can avoid the risk of exposing one e-mail address to all of your contacts.

Continue reading "Eight Quick Tips For Stopping SPAM"

Spyware, Adware, etc. -- Terms and Common Sense

When reading an article where some term is used often, it is useful to make sure the author of the article and you mean the same. Not surprisingly for those who still remember English lessons at school, every noun ending with "ware" is a mixture of objects having something in common--usually used for similar purposes. So it tends to be when "ware" is short for "software"; sometimes it's pretty tricky to define exactly what kind of software it includes and what these programs do.

If the terms "adware" and "spyware" are used in an article as synonyms (sometimes even experienced journalists make such a mistake), readers will just wonder why there are so many words for the same stuff. Since computer programmers and gurus don't read these articles at all, an average user feels bewildered when he finishes reading. Too many terms with too vague meanings...it's nothing more than my own impression, because I am not a programmer or a guru--just a linguist. I'm still trying to make a head and tail of it.

Spyware, adware, malware, what else? - trackware, trapware, crapware, junkware, snoopware... Readers have heard a lot about browser hijackers, dialers, keyloggers, cookies, BHOs, Trojan horse programs, viruses, worms...What a motley crew! Is it possible for the average non-tech person to memorize their numerous definitions and knotty relations with one another? What is a part of which? If one looks trough several definitions of "spyware" given in some articles, he is going to find muddle and confusion instead of clarity.

Continue reading "Spyware, Adware, etc. -- Terms and Common Sense"

10 Ways to Tame Information Overload

"Knowledge is of two kinds. We know a subject ourselves, or we know where we can find information on it." Samuel Johnson 1709-1784

Information overload causes a lot of workplace stress--too much email, voice mail, internet connections, electronic reports, digital images, cell phones, text messages, pagers, PDA reminders, laptops, power point programs, recorders, MP3 players, bridge lines, video conferences, teleseminars, and many more. How do the savvy leaders sort through the noise and capture exactly what they need to succeed?

We've always had more information than we could possibly digest. Technology has helped us overcome the traditional problem of finding the data we need, and technology can help us control and access knowledge in ways to make it meaningful.

Good leaders and managers are all knowledgeable of technology resources. They surround themselves with experts if they cannot embrace the entire scope of their assets, just as they depend on experts in finance, sales, and manufacturing.

Continue reading "10 Ways to Tame Information Overload"

All About Computer Viruses

Your computer is as slow as molasses. Your mouse freezes every 15 minutes, and that Microsoft Word program just won't seem to open.

You might have a virus.

Just what exactly is a virus? What kind is in your computer? How did it get there? How is it spreading and wreaking such havoc? And why is it bothering with your computer anyway?

Viruses are pieces of programming code that make copies of themselves, or replicate, inside your computer without asking your explicit written permission to do so. Forget getting your permission down on paper. Viruses don't bother to seek your permission at all! Very invasive.

In comparison, there are pieces of code that might replicate inside your computer, say something your IT guy thinks you need. But the code spreads, perhaps throughout your office network, with your consent (or at least your IT guy's consent). These types of replicating code are called agents, said Jimmy Kuo, a research fellow with McAfee AVERT, a research arm of anti-virus software-maker McAfee Inc.

In this article, though, we're not talking about the good guys, or the agents. We'll be talking about the bad guys, the viruses.

A long, long time ago in computer years, like five, most viruses were comprised of a similar breed. They entered your computer perhaps through an email attachment or a floppy disk (remember those?). Then they attached themselves to one of your files, say your Microsoft Word program.

Continue reading "All About Computer Viruses"

Two Steps Toward Computer Security

So, you've heard enough horror stories about viruses, Trojan-horses, spyware and their cousins that can really make your Internet surfing a dismal experience. Confucius said: "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step," but the road to computer network security begins with two steps. Here are the two most important things you can do to keep from getting buried in this online garbage:

1) Keep your computer up to date. No matter if you use Windows, Mac or Linux, keeping software on your computer up-to-date is extremely important. Many viruses use known security bugs already discovered in software but not yet fixed or patched on individual computers. For example, the well-know "Blaster" virus (W32.Blaster.Worm), which attacked millions of computers all around the world, exploits something called the "DCOM RPC vulnerability" in some versions of Microsoft Windows. The Blaster virus didn't even rely on your e-mail program to propagate; but rather, it scanned the Internet for vulnerable computers and copied itself to the unpatched machines where it set up shop repeating the process, causing a tremendous disruption in overall Internet usage and untold headaches for owners of infected machines.

Continue reading "Two Steps Toward Computer Security"

How to search your PC with Google Desktop

In this era of Internet, most people are frequent users of computers. Many of us use computers through out the day, accumulating morasses of information in various formats, which include email, digital photo, word document, spreadsheet, presentation file, ebook, article, other downloaded files, music, visited web pages, and many others. We stuff them in multiple folders in our PC. Before we know it, our hard drives become a storeroom of misplaced items. As a result, finding a needed file of information some times become a daunting task!

The search function integrated to Microsoft Windows is not a big help either. It requires you to know, albeit vaguely, where the file could possibly be located. If your data storage is significant and you made a search on your whole hard disk, it might take ages to get search results and, then again, there is no guarantee that you will find the right file. Frustrating? Thanks to new Google Desktop Search this is about to change!

What is Google Desktop Search?

Google Desktop Search is a free downloadable small program, which will quickly and easily find your files no matter where in your hard disk they are stored. The great thing about this program is by making your computer searchable, this program frees you from having to manually organize and sort your files, emails, and downloads. You no more have to mull over where in your PC the information you are looking for is residing - in your email, files or web pages that you browsed recently.

Continue reading "How to search your PC with Google Desktop"

The Pitfalls Of Using Technology For Technology's Sake

Being a long-time Internet entrepreneur, I have made certain observations over time. Most people who start an online business seem to go through certain "phases." They make the same mistakes, and they react the same to different circumstances. All the while, they never realize that much of this behavior sends a glaring red signal that they are undoubtedly newbies.

There is nothing wrong with being a newbie (after all, I wasn't born this brilliant grin). But ask any novice and they will tell you that they don't want to appear to be a beginner. That's why I recently felt the need to bring attention to a typical newbie mistake that you'll want to avoid. That mistake is using every single piece of new Web technology you can find JUST because it is available.

I understand the appeal of new technology. However, before loading up yet another animated graphic or phasing Web page, ask yourself a few questions.

1. Will this technology add value to my site? By value I mean something that will enhance (and not clutter) your Web visitor's experience. Other than being cool, will the technology help in some way?

2. Will the technology cause an inconvenience to my visitors? Will an all Flash home page force visitors (even repeat visitors) to sit and watch a two-minute long movie each and every time they come to your site? Will tons of animated or rotating graphics files make your home page load extremely slow? Web surfers are very impatient people, you know. I can tell you from experience, they won't wait.

Continue reading " The Pitfalls Of Using Technology For Technology's Sake"

Understanding Google AdWords

Google AdWords Unlike many search engines Google, to its credit, clearly denotes search listings that are paid placement. In fact, Google AdWords appear in a separate section down the left side of the screen.

Google AdWords provide an inexpensive advertising venue for businesses to advertise products or services to a targeted audience. Advertisers have the ability to control their budget, target their advertising based on keywords. Advertisers are also free to determine the ad contents.

Google AdWords allow for nearly instant traffic, which can be turned on and off. Traffic results can be measured, providing information on what is successful, what isn't and what needs to be changed. AdWords can be found that work by running a test campaign.

Benefits to AdWords Advertisers bid on keywords, the more an advertiser is willing to pay the higher the likelihood the ad will appear higher in position in the list of ads served. Google, invariably wanting to make the most from advertisers, determines placement based on a combination of click through rate, bid amount and budget. Of course, in order to maximize revenue and please searchers Google does have guidelines for ads served and all ads must receive a minimum percentage click through or they are removed.

Continue reading "Understanding Google AdWords"

New PayPal Fee Structure

PayPal has announced that, beginning in August, a new fee structure will be in place. The new structure is based on monthly volumes and is designed to lower fees for higher-volume sellers while retaining the current rates for lower-volume (average) users. These new rates will apply to you if:
1) you are currently a "merchant" with PayPal (hold a verified business rather than a personal account) and
2) you do a comparatively high volume of selling.

Fee structure will be based on previous month's sales, but if you rarely (or never) do more than $3,000 (USD) in sales in one month, you have nothing to worry about: your fees are not changing (Standard Rate with PayPal is 2.9%).

If you do more than that, though, you'll want to be aware that your rates will drop according to how high your volume is.

The tiers are simple: Over $3,000 USD lowers your rate to 2.5%, over $10,000 lowers your rate to 2.2%, and over $100,000 lowers your rate to 1.9% - a full percentage point down, which is huge when you consider that 1% of $100,001 is $1,000.01 in potential savings. The standard thirty cents per transaction fee applies in all cases, of course.

These rates are for domestic (in-country) transfers. If you do multi-national money changing, you'll want to see the new fee structures for that, which drop as low as 2.9 per cent.

For higher-volume sellers, these new rates are exciting. They mean an overall cost savings for you and bring PayPal in line with any of the most competitive credit card merchants available.

by Aaron Turpen of Aaronz WebWorkz
=========
Aaron is the proprietor of Aaronz WebWorkz, a full service company providing a range of services to online businesses. Aaron specializes in small and home-based business consulting and site development. https://www.AaronzWebWorkz.com

Top 10 Ways to Use Web Audio

Add a new dimension to your website. Web audio engages visitors, helps them understand the benefits of your product or service, and generates more leads and sales. Listen to an audio message I recorded for our site, or read the top ten ways you can use web audio on your site.

https://www.resolvedigital.com/pages/124/Instant_Web_Audio.htm

1. Build rapport. Add a personal touch to your communications. Even your most skeptical prospects will respond to the authority of the human voice. More credibility leads to more sales.

2. Movitate and focus visitors' attention. Keep visitors on your site longer. The human voice has the power to influence, motivate, and persuade prospects to click.

Continue reading "Top 10 Ways to Use Web Audio"

Search Engine Results and the PDF User Trap

Many major search engines now have the capability to index PDF files created by Adobe Acrobat and return them in search results. If you are a Web site owner with PDF files on your site, this is good news.

What you may not know is that this capability presents potential usability problems, especially for searchers. What is the big deal? Let's find out.

Searching for "blessing of a Christmas tree" on Google returns a link to a PDF file in the results. (www.usccb.org/publishing/advent2003/XMASTREE.PDF)

If searchers click on this listing, the link automatically opens a PDF file with no navigation to the main site. Users are trapped! They have no way to explore other pages of the site for more information.

So, what's going on and, more importantly, how to do we fix it?

Continue reading "Search Engine Results and the PDF User Trap"

Simple Server Side Includes

Anyone who's ever had to change a multitude of static pages on a site knows what a pain it is to find and change the same snippets of code on one page after another- even using an HTML editor's find-and-replace function can be cumbersome since you have to upload all of the pages to the server again with the new code. Sometimes a page or two will get missed or the find-and-replace function replaces some things you didn't intend to change, so it requires some quality-checking time to run through all the pages and make sure the changes are there.

An easier way to manage pages in your site is by replacing chunks of repeating code, such as your navigation links, with server side include (SSI) files. Instead of repeating the same code over and over, you create a separate file with just that chunk of repeated code in it, then place a line of code on each page that tells the server to insert the contents of a separate file into that spot on the page.

Continue reading "Simple Server Side Includes"

Avoid the 5 Most Common Audio Product Mistakes

Audio products are a great addition to an information product program. They can boost your profile and bring in extra income. The power of your voice can help you forge stronger bonds with customers. And customers can enjoy your material wherever they can take a portable audio player.

But there are five big mistakes waiting to trip up first-time audio producers, says audio expert Rob Schultz.

1. Falling prey to the seductive spell of technology. With the myriad of high-tech gadgets and toys on the market, it's easy to get seduced by technology. But technology alone will not make your audio product great, says Schultz. You still need good content and good planning.

On the flip side of the coin, too many people think if they know nothing about technology, they can't create good audio products. This belief is equally false, says Schultz. Even a simple recording on a tape cassette deck can do the trick if the content is good.

Continue reading "Avoid the 5 Most Common Audio Product Mistakes"

Zen and the Lost Art of Software Design

How come, after 30 years plus in the computer business, I still don't know how to use my fax software properly?

Nor, for that matter, do I use more than 20 per cent of the super-dooper-word-processor-with-business-graphics-drawing-and desktop-publishing-features. Why?

And, when it comes to my feature-packed database program that will store and keep track of everything, why do I prefer the old program that I've had around for 10 years and refuse to discard?

Do you know why? Because desktop software is still not that easy to use even for programmers and highly experienced super-users. I've been reflecting on this problem for awhile now and I think I've finally figured it out.

Continue reading "Zen and the Lost Art of Software Design"

Deciding Whether to Offer Your New Gadget as a Product or Service

If you have ever made and designed your own software, you will
have likely already learned the lessons in this article. The
same lessons can be applied to the businesses of most Internet
marketers.

The main lesson I learned was that it does not matter how good
your software product is, the quality of the product does not
ensure its financial success.

Microsoft of course is an exception for a number of reasons.
First off, Microsoft has always sold their product first to the
computer retailer. Secondly, they have built the legal war
chest to force businesses to pay for their products. They also
have the war chest available to promote their products with
tens or hundreds of millions of dollars.

Continue reading "Deciding Whether to Offer Your New Gadget as a Product or Service"

Why Split-Run Testing Does Not Work... for those who are doing it wrong.

There is a wealth of information out there about the benefits of split-run testing or how to conduct such tests, and a huge selection of software solutions that help to implement it.

I'm am not going to attempt to describe the concepts of testing, nor will I pitch any software solution.

I want to talk about why so many people fail in their attempt to improve the conversion rate of their sites while using split-run testing techniques.

Continue reading "Why Split-Run Testing Does Not Work... for those who are doing it wrong."

Comparing Web Browsers: The Top Three

There are three major Web browsers contending for the Windows PC market: Microsoft's Internet Explorer, the open-source Mozilla (basis for the Netscape browser), and Opera Software's Opera browser.

I use each of these fairly regularly, though I do have my favorites; however, recent changes in favoritism are what prompted this article. Each of the browsers has its merits and problems. For this discussion, I'll be listing them in order of their usage 'Net-wide and for the 4-point scoring system, Internet Explorer is the "benchmark" as it is the most widely used browser online (by far) and thus earns two stars per category.

I rate the browsers on useability, functionality, speed, and reliability. Useability is based on the browsers intuitive design features such as side bars, tabbed browsing, etc. Functionality is based on the browsers "extras" like use of plugins, browsing options, etc. Speed is obvious and reliability is based on how often the browser "locks up," "crashes," or incorrectly displays a website.

Continue reading "Comparing Web Browsers: The Top Three"
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