Networking Systems

Unsielded Twisted Pair Cable ( UTP)

2009-09-11T21:34:00.000-07:00

Twisted pair of cable is just what its name implies insulated wires with a minimum number of twists per foot. Twisting the wires reduces the electricla interference. Unshielded twisted pair is very familiar type of cable. It is often used as the telephone cable.

UTP cables comes is variety of grades called level 5, level 4 and level 3, offering better perpormance than an ordinary telephone cable. Level 5 cable is the highest most expensive grade, meant for 100mbps networks. Level 4 and level 3 cables are less expensive, but cannot support the same data throughput speeds. Level 4 cable can support upto 20 mbps and level 3 upto only16mbps.

This wide variety of cables shows the evolution of the ethernet technology. Thick coax was one of the cabling systems used in the ethernet but was difficult to work with and expensive. This lead to the development of the thin coax, which is easier to work with and less expensive. Today the most popular cable is unshielded twisted pair ( UTP ) Cable. This looks like a telephone cable but comes in variety of grades.

Coaxial cable

2009-09-11T21:25:00.000-07:00

Coaxial cabel is easily identified in your every day life. You always find it connected to the television sets and audio equipment. Thick and thin refer to the diameter of the coaxial cable standard ethernet cable ( thick coax) is over a centimeter in diameter. The thin coax is about half of thick coax in diameter. the thick coax has a greater degree of noise immunity and is quite strong. This network. Though thin coax carries signal over the shorter distance, it is perferred over thick coax, because thin coax needs simple BNC connecter and is very flexible and is cheaper than the thick coax and more flexible and soft and ideal for office cabling environment

Components of a computer network

2009-09-06T22:09:00.000-07:00

A network is a combination of different components. The most essential components of a simple network are:

Servers: Servers are the faster computers to run various softwares,stores and process information and to provide a human interface for the users to be able to use the networked computers.

Nodes: Nodes are the computers on the network which are provided to the users to carry out their task using the network.A node which is more powerful and can handle local information processing or graphics processing is called workstation.

The workstation works only for the person sitting in front of it. whereas a server serves all the people on the network to share its resources. A workstation usually has an inexpensive, small hard disk to carry out local tasks. Some workstations, called disk less workstations, have no disk drive of their own. Such workstations also called dumb terminals, rely completely on the LAN for their access. The network operating system Lets the nodes work as if all the resources at the server belong to the Node itself.

LAN cables: This is the medium over which the information travels from computer to computer. from the computer onto the medium and to take up the information from the medium and make it available to the computer in the form it can read.

Network Operation system Software: to control the movement of information on the network.
Networks which are more complex, require components like hubs, on the network, each computer is called a node or a workstation unless there are certain computers designed as servers. Each computer contains a network interface card. Lan cables connect all the node sand severs together to form the network. in addition to its local disk operation system each node requires a networking software the enables the nodes to communicate with the servers. In return the files servers run network software the communicate with nodes.

Secure Computer and Network Systems Modeling Analysis and Design Mar 2008 eBook

2008-09-10T01:15:00.001-07:00

Secure Computer and Network Systems: Modeling, Analysis and Design (c)
by Wiley

The type of the release is: eBook
In the PDF format with ISBN: 0470023244 and Pub Date: March 14, 2008
The size of the release is: 02 disks x 1.44mb
And released on: 08/25/2008

Computer and network systems have given us unlimited opportunities of
reducing cost, improving efficiency, and increasing revenues, as
demonstrated by an increasing number of computer and network
applications. Yet, our dependence on computer and network systems has
also exposed us to new risks, which threaten the security of, and
present new challenges for protecting our assets and information on
computer and network systems. The reliability of computer and network
systems ultimately depends on security and quality of service (QoS)
performance. This book presents quantitative modeling and analysis
techniques to address these numerous challenges in cyber attack
prevention and detection for security and QoS, including:
- the latest research on computer and network behavior under attack
and normal use conditions;
- new design principles and algorithms, which can be used by engineers
and practitioners to build secure computer and network systems, enhance
security practice and move to providing QoS assurance on the Internet;
- mathematical and statistical methods for achieving the accuracy and
timeliness of cyber attack detection with the lowest computational
overhead;
- guidance on managing admission control, scheduling, reservation and
service of computer and network jobs to assure the service stability and
end-to-end delay of those jobs even under Denial of Service attacks or
abrupt demands. Secure Computer and Network Systems: Modeling, Analysis
and Design is an up-to-date resource for practising engineers and
researchers involved in security, reliability and quality management of
computer and network systems. It is also a must-read for postgraduate
students developing advanced technologies for improving computer network
dependability.

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0470023244/

Zero-touch setup Virtual Office From Cisco, With Office-Caliber Video, Voice, Wireless and Data Service in Branch or Home Offices.

2008-09-10T01:15:00.000-07:00

The Cisco Virtual Office has stepped up to fill the demand emanating from mid-sized and large enterprises that employ a larger numbers of distributed workforces, who are placed hundreds or thousands of miles form their corporate offices with need for Unified Communications and access to collaborative Services and business applications. The Cisco Virtual Office, packages routing, switching, security, wireless, IP telephony, and policy control technology into a centrally managed office-caliber solution that provides highly secure video, voice, data and wireless service.

The solution deployes Zero-touch setup Cisco 881w Series Internet Services Router and Cisco 7970G IP phone with color display at remote offices and Cisco 7200 Series router serving as a converged platform for virtual private networking, offering easy-to-manage encryption and security.

American Century Investments, a leading investment management company based in Kansas City, Missouri, uses and so far rolled out the Cisco Virtual Office solution to more than 110 of its sales agents and remote workers.

Cisco itself is an active user of the Cisco Virtual Office solution. More than 12,000 employees in 70 countries use Cisco Virtual Office, and in 2009 the company plans to increase adoption to 20,000 users. By 2010, Cisco plans to have deployed the solution to 30,000 of its employees globally.

The following videos from the company's vice president of information technology Chuck Trent and two U.S.-based users provides more information on the product and the usage;

Cisco Virtual Office: Chuck Trent

Cisco Virtual Office: Jill Shaul

Cisco Virtual Office: Craig Huegen
Following is the Complete Press Release by Cisco;
Highly Secure Solution Helps Employees Collaborate Via Office-Caliber Video, Voice, Wireless and Data Service in Branch or Home Offices

SAN JOSE, Calif. - September 9, 2008 - Cisco® today announced the Cisco Virtual Office, a highly secure solution that allows businesses to extend their enterprise - and productivity - by "bringing the office" to employees who regularly work in a variety of remote settings, such as branch locations or from a home office.

The Cisco Virtual Office addresses the growing trend among mid-sized and large enterprises that have increasingly distributed workforces who need access to collaborative business applications and services outside of their corporate offices. The networking solution packages routing, switching, security, wireless, IP telephony, and policy control technology into a centrally managed office-caliber solution that provides highly secure video, voice, data and wireless service. (http://www.cisco.com/go/cvo) It is flexible, allowing employees to work in a variety of places with technology and services that are as advanced as if they were sitting at their desk in their office. This "extension" of an employee's collaborative office environment includes access to voice and video over IP communications, all protected within a highly secure networked environment.

The Cisco Virtual Office comes at an opportune time. As businesses look for flexible and cost-effective work options, particularly in the wake of rising gas prices and energy costs, the solution enables them to ensure highly secure collaboration amongst a more distributed workforce. (http://www.internetinnovation.org/Portals/0/Documents/Final_Green_Benefits.pdf) This agility helps maintain business continuity, such as during inclement weather, and can generate cost savings on real estate by eliminating needs for additional office space. Furthermore, remote workers can enhance productivity by accessing the same communications and collaboration technologies available to their office-based counterparts.

One of the solution's most valued features is its "zero-touch" setup. Automated, pre-configured setup offloads installation responsibilities from employees, most of whom are not qualified or knowledgeable enough to implement networking systems themselves. With the solution's zero-touch setup, businesses can extend their workforces to thousands of locations with the peace of mind that employee error and IT support will be minimal. As a whole, the Cisco Virtual Office consists of the following components:

Remote site
o Zero-touch setup of the new Cisco 881w Series Internet Services Router (ISR) and Cisco 7970G IP phone with color display. Once the Cisco 881w ISR is connected to the Internet, it "calls home" and automatically downloads a pre-defined configuration that syncs with headquarters. From there, employees can benefit from efficient, automated delivery of collaborative business applications and services. For example, wireless LAN connectivity is offered as an option to provide such features as mobile intelligent roaming.

Headquarters site
o A Cisco 7200 Series router serves as a converged platform for virtual private networking, offering easy-to-manage encryption and security. It utilizes Cisco Dynamic Multipoint Virtual Private Networking (DMVPN), which secures the exchange of data between two locations without traversing the head office, improving network performance and data delivery by offloading traffic demands from headquarters. This infrastructure also supports SSL and L2TP over IPsec VPNs, serving as a single point of convergence for multiple secure access technologies, such as mobile users with laptops or PDAs.
o Management servers for policy, identity and configuration, which include the Cisco Configuration Engine for image distribution to as many as 10,000 Cisco Integrated Services Routers; Cisco Security Manager for management of security policies; and Cisco Secure Access Control Server (ACS), which provides access policy control to meet regulatory and corporate compliance requirements. This centralized management architecture allows control of all the services that Cisco Virtual Office enables, including security, mobility, collaboration and unified communications.

Services
o Cisco and its approved partners provide services for Cisco Virtual Office planning, design and implementation. Services include deployment and integration at the head-end site, consultative guidance for automating the deployment and management of remote sites, and ongoing operational support. These services help reduce customers' operating costs and continually assess, tune and evolve Cisco Virtual Office components to keep pace with customers' business needs and security threats.

"The Cisco Virtual Office is ultimately about helping extend secure mobility and empowering the collaborative workforce wherever and whenever it connects," said Marie Hattar, vice president of network systems and security solutions for Cisco. "It enhances the benefits of remote working by providing office-caliber technology wrapped in a security blanket. It allows businesses to stay agile, and in some cases, it can provide an environmentally friendly alternative to commuting while managing operational expenses at corporate sites."

According to Hattar, as the number of distributed workers increases and the way they access corporate networks and information multiplies, both in terms of device and location, businesses need an increasingly flexible IT infrastructure that extends the same protection found within a corporate office to remote locations where employees connect. Because of the solution's security capabilities, businesses can safely establish highly secure mobility, collaborate with their constituents and adopt distributed employee work models that can be more efficient than relying exclusively on centralized corporate sites for conducting operations.

American Century Investments, a leading investment management company based in Kansas City, Missouri, is harnessing the value of remote working and distributed - yet collaborative -- enterprises through the Cisco Virtual Office. To date, American Century Investments has rolled out the Cisco Virtual Office solution to more than 110 of its sales agents and remote workers.

"Our remote worker implementation of the Cisco Virtual Office is designed to provide our employees with flexibility and to allow them to be as functional working from home as they are in the office," said Keith Little, network services manager for American Century Investments. "As our intermediary sales staff grows, we will continue to broaden our adoption of this solution so we can provide our employees with easy remote access to network resources. The Cisco Virtual Office provides us with the benefits of greater employee productivity and operational efficiency. Simply put, we've adopted the Cisco Virtual Office as our own virtual office."
Cisco's Internal Deployment: 12,000 Employees in 70 Countries

In addition to American Century Investments, Cisco is an active user of the solution. More than 12,000 employees in 70 countries use Cisco Virtual Office, and in 2009 the company plans to increase adoption to 20,000 users. By 2010, Cisco plans to have deployed the solution to 30,000 of its employees globally. To find out more on Cisco's rollout strategy and benefits, please view these videos from the company's vice president of information technology Chuck Trent and two U.S.-based users:

URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QxhFgKHYjwc

URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QoYd3zWwuY0

URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDteqoaRaHA
Pricing & Availability

The Cisco Virtual Office solution is available today and starts at $700 per seat.
Cisco, the Cisco logo and Cisco Systems are registered trademarks or trademarks of Cisco Systems, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the United States and certain other countries. All other trademarks mentioned in this document are the property of their respective owners. The use of the word partner does not imply a partnership relationship between Cisco and any other company. This document is Cisco Public Information.
Contact Information:
Press Contact(s)
Neil Becker Cisco Systems, Inc. 408 525-7415 nebecker@cisco.com
Investor Relations Contact(s)
Marilyn Mora Cisco Systems, Inc. 408 527 7452 marilmor@cisco.com
Industry Analyst Relations
Todd Hanson Cisco Systems, Inc. +1 408 853 8255 todhanso@cisco.com
Tags: cisco, unified communication, Virtual Office, IP telephony, Zero-touch setup, Cisco Virtual Office, Cisco 881w, Cisco 7970G IP phone, Cisco 7200, Dynamic Multipoint Virtual Private Networking, DMVPN

Tight security network for PC polls

2008-08-29T11:43:00.000-07:00

Six DIGs and one Senior DIG for Anuradhapura district and two for Polonnaruwa district have been deployed to monitor the elections.

The arrangement was discussed at a special meeting by IGP Jayantha Wickramaratne to brief the party representative on the Police security network on the Provincial Council elections.

Threats of possible LTTE attacks were also brought to the notice and instructions were issued in that regard as well, a release by the Police Headquarters said.

Four operation rooms in addition to the one in the Police Headquarters have been installed.

Mobile patrols, small riot squads, road blocks, security for polling station and also larger riot squads have been deployed, it said.

Pre and post-election security arrangements were also explained. Instructions have been issued against liquor and drug-based violence, post-election rallies or loitering on roads, it said.

Action would be taken with the Army to deal with post election violence.

Telephone numbers of high police officials were provided to contact them in case of any violence-related incidents. Such a mega security plan has to be enforced due to violence, the release said.

The Police appeal to the public to make way for a peaceful and violence-free election and equally enjoy the fruits of defeat and victory alike.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Guidelines for voters
* Cast your vote early at the polling station mentioned in the poll card.

* Your National ID, an alternative identity document or a temporary ID issued by the Grama Niladhari is mandatory to cast your vote.

* Do not take cellular phones into the polling station

* Leave the polling station and surrounding areas immediately after voting.

* Mark a cross in front of the symbol of the party/independent group you prefer, before marking preferential votes for up to three candidates of your choice. Do not mark the preferences only without marking a party/ind. group.

Mac and PC cloud sync and mobile push

2008-08-23T09:12:00.000-07:00

Bonjour, you have new messages

Once updates arrive at the cloud, either from MobileMe sync or from entries made directly in MobileMe web apps, the cloud pushes those updates down to any registered iPhones or iPod touches connected to the account. On Mac OS X Tiger or Leopard, Apple also triggers push updates from the cloud that should show up immediately in Address Book and iCal, or “generally within a minute” according to Apple's site.

Updates made on the Mac desktop are not immediately pushed up to the cloud unless you manually initiate a sync (or wait for the system to trigger an update sync itself). However, updates are pushed down to Leopard desktop apps, typically within around ten to fifteen seconds of making changes from the web or on the iPhone. Updates pushed to the mobile are similarly fast.

This unique desktop push feature uses the same Wide-Area Bonjour mechanism used by MobileMe's Back to My Mac for remote file and screen sharing. For this to work, the Mac desktop must first be securely registered into Apple's Dynamic DNS server by simply turning BTMM on (which happens when you install the MobileMe update, if it's not already on). This then allows the MobileMe cloud servers to target updates to the machine as required without the desktop system needing to initiate the transactions. BTMM also automatically configures an encrypted, point to point IPSec connection to secure transactions over the Internet.

Other push messaging alternatives either use an expensive mobile network to keep track of mobile devices (as RIM's BlackBerry service does), or require a team of administrators to configure and maintain a Local Area Network supplying DNS and directory services (as Exchange Server does). Exchange can not remotely update desktop client machines unless they connect to the corporate network over a VPN or dialup networking link themselves. Thanks to the automatic Wide-Area Bonjour configuration of MobileMe's BTMM, none of that is needed.

MobileMe on Windows

Apple's BTMM push updating service does not update Windows desktop apps, which must sync on a regular interval to be kept up to date with the cloud. Rather than using Microsoft's own desktop ActiveSync in Windows XP (not to be confused with Exchange Server's unrelated push messaging component of the same name), or its successor in Windows Vista, the “Windows Mobile Device Center,” Apple brought over its own sync technology, bundled within iTunes.

This is not new to MobileMe; iTunes for Windows has long provided iPod, iPhone, and .Mac data sync with Outlook on the PC. This fact didn't prevent conspiracy theorists from complaining that iTunes 7.7 was “sneaking MobileMe onto Windows” after discovering optional new sync options in the latest version of iTunes.

During the iTunes install, Apple includes a MobileMe Control Panel that behaves identically with its Mac OS X counterpart, although on Windows there is no support for syncing anything apart from calendar, contacts, and bookmarks with the MobileMe cloud (below). Again, on Windows, there is currently no support for Back to My Mac or push updates, only sync.

Sonnet announces 2-Port Gigabit Ethernet network adapter cards

2008-08-23T09:09:00.001-07:00

Sonnet Technologies Inc., a provider of upgrades and accessories for Apple Mac desktop, server, and notebook computers, announced this week the introduction of the Presto Gigabit PCIe Server PCI Express network adapter card and the Presto Gigabit PCI-X Server network adapter card.

These Sonnet cards add two GbE (Gigabit Ethernet) ports to any compatible computer, offer enhanced performance through support for jumbo packet data transfers and link aggregation, and deliver improved reliability with transparent failover protection, in case a cable gets disconnected or a port fails.

Sonnet Technologies, headquartered in Irvine, California, provides local storage systems for professional users of Macintosh, Windows, and Unix systems in the film, video, and broadcast industries, Sonnet's continued success is due in part to a superior staff of engineers and personnel committed to excellence.

Since its founding in 1986, Sonnet offers product solutions that enhance the storage, performance, and connectivity of Macintosh, PC, and industry-standard computers. The company is a computer hardware upgrade company with a product line featuring a range of high-performance, cost-effective, and reliable storage solutions, as well as a variety of performance-extending upgrade cards.

Presto Gigabit PCIe Server features a native PCI Express x4 host bus interface for maximum performance in most recent computers, while Presto Gigabit PCI-X Server features a 64-bit, 133 MHz PCI-X host bus interface for maximum performance and even wider compatibility in older computers. Both Presto Gigabit Server network adapter cards deliver enhanced networking support in compatible computers and gigabit speeds over common CAT-5 cabling, so costly cable replacement is unnecessary to support the higher performance. Presto Gigabit Server network adapter cards’ 1000/100/10BaseT auto-negotiation and full/half duplex communication support allow them to be used in most networks.

The benefits of these Sonnet cards include a simple way to add two ports of GbE connectivity to any compatible computer, supports gigabit speeds on common CAT-5 cabling with no need for costly cable replacement, supports link aggregation on its own and with onboard GbE ports, and supports transparent failover. It also features full/half duplex, 1000/100/10BaseT auto-negotiation, and fast host bus interfaces for maximum performance.

The Presto Gigabit PCIe Server is compatible with Xserve (with PCI Express 1.1 slots), Mac Pro, Power Mac G5 (with PCI Express slots), Server with PCI Express slot, PC with PCI Express slot, Mac OS X Version 10.4.11+, Windows Server 2003, Windows Vista and Windows XP with SP2.

The Presto Gigabit PCI-X Server is compatible with Xserve (with PCI or PCI-X slots), Power Mac G5 (with PCI or PCI-X slots only), Power Mac G4 (all models except Cube), Power Macintosh G3 Server, Blue & White, Server with PCI or PCI-X slots, PC with PCI or PCI-X slots, Mac OS X Version 10.4.11+, Windows Server 2003, Windows Vista and Windows XP with SP2.

The Presto Gigabit PCIe Server with part number GE1000LA2X-E is available for the retail price of US$ 199.95. The Presto Gigabit PCI-X Server with part number GE1000LA2X will be available this month for the retail price of US$ 199.95.

36,000 public servants deployed for PC polls

2008-08-23T09:08:00.002-07:00

The Elections Secretariat will also mobilise the services of retired Government drivers to maintain the election transport network at the highest level.

Over 500 Assistant Returning Officers (AROs) who have been appointed to supervise the elections will attend a pre-election workshop at the Rajagiriya Election Secretariat from August 18-20.

Accordingly, 300 AROs will be sent from Colombo and over 200 will be sent from the outstations.

Deshapriya said that Elections Commissioner Dayananda Dissanayake had informed party Secretaries on Friday about the decisions taken by the Elections Secretariat to conduct the election in a free and fair manner.

The discussions were held with the participation of UPFA Secretary Susil Premajayantha, UNP Secretary Tissa Attanayaka, JVP Secretary Tilvin Silva and CWC Secretary R. Yogarajan. Senior DIG (Elections) Gamini Nawaratna and senior Police Officials from the NCP and Sabaragamuwa were also present.

Meanwhile a spokesman for the Elections Secretariat said in addition to the National Identity Card (NIC), voters could produce their passports, postal NICs, driving licences and railway season ticket folders to vote at the North Central and Sabaragamuwa Provincial Council Elections on August 23. Deshapriya said that voters could also produce their temporary NICs by the Divisional Secretariats, Bhikkhu NICs and Senior Citizen NICs, issued by the Social Services Department.

"However, we have instructed all Assistant Returning Officers (AROs) and Senior Presiding Officers at polling booths not to allow any person who does not hold an authorised identity card to vote under any circumstances". Deshapriya also said if any person or a group of people makes an attempt to vote in an irregular manner, the SPOs were instructed to seek the assistance of the police.

The Elections Secretariat has also instructed officials manning polling booths to retain the temporary issued NICs in their custody after the voters cast their vote.

SIMI network in many States exposed

2008-08-23T09:08:00.001-07:00

The July 26 serial bomb blasts here that killed 53 people and injured over 200 were carried out by SIMI activists from Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Karnataka with local support from Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat and Broach.

Gujarat Director-General of Police P.C. Pandey told journalists here on Saturday that so far the police had not been able to establish the militants’ direct links with the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba or the Bangladesh-based HUJI. “But we all know that somewhere at the top the local terror groups are actively linked with the LeT, HUJI as well as Pakistan’s ISI. It is only a matter of time before the external hand behind the bomb blasts in Ahmedabad and possibly some other parts of the country is established,” he said.

Besides Mr. Pandey, Ahmedabad Police Commissioner O.P. Mathur, Vadodara Police Commissioner Rakesh Asthana and Crime Branch Joint Police Commissioner Ashish Bhatia, who played an active role in cracking the entire terror network, were present at the press conference.

Mr. Pandey and Mr. Bhatia said the arrest of Javed Sheikh, a resident of Juhapura locality in the city, led to the arrest of eight more, four each in Ahmedabad and Vadodara, who were actively involved in the planning, and execution of the serial blasts in Ahmedabad and the planting of bombs in Surat.

Saturday’s arrest of Abul Bashar Qasmi, the mastermind behind the Ahmedabad blasts, from his native village in Azamgarh in Uttar Pradesh, was expected to facilitate the arrests of several others known to be involved.

He said the “Indian Mujahideen,” in whose name the warning e-mail was sent minutes before the Ahmedabad serial blasts, was nothing but another name of the SIMI. After the SIMI was banned, its activists were operating under the name of Indian Mujahideen and were mainly carrying out bomb blasts, kidnapping or hijacking to get some of its key leaders released.

Mr. Bhatia said the planning for the Ahmedabad blasts and in some other centres started in Kerala, where a secret training camp was organised in the Wagamon forests last December.

The camp was attended by about 50 youth members of the SIMI from Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, U.P., Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Kerala, Karnataka and some other States. In the four-day camp, the participants were given preliminary training in rock climbing, map reading, air pistol firing, guerilla warfare and other such activities. They were also trained in misleading the police, and in raising a hue and cry over human rights violations in case of arrests and other fringe issues. Among the leaders who delivered fiery “jehadi” speeches to instigate youth to terror activities were Safdar Nagori, who was arrested in Indore in March, and Karimuddin Nagori.

After the Kerala camp, Safdar, Karimuddin and Hafiz Hussain visited Ahmedabad and Vadodara to net in more young SIMI activists in the State. Another training camp, mainly to train the youth participants from Gujarat to participate in terror operations, was held in the Pavagadh hills in Halol, about 50 km from Vadodara, in January this year. After the arrest of Safdar Nagori in March, Mufti Abu Bashir, Vadodara-based Kayamuddin, and a Mumbai-based top official of a software company, all SIMI activists, took charge.

The Renegade Network Marketer and Sieg's System Were the Beginning - What's Next?

2008-03-17T02:54:00.000-07:00

Every day hundreds of savvy network marketers and even the old-school MLMers purchase Ann Sieg's Renegade System--a funded sponsoring proposal lead generation system--but a lot of them do it unknowingly.

What they initially picked up was a copy of her e-book, but after they read the book they realize they get a lot more than just words and ideas.

Just as Mike Dillard has done with his Magnetic Sponsoring, Sieg's book comes with her Renegade System. Although different in many ways, both set of books, resources and systems have empowered network marketers to move into a new era for the networking industry-the era of marketing.

First & Second Impressions about The Renegade and Magnetic Sponsoring...

Many progressive networkers, and even many of the old-school MLM types, fumble through the first pages of The Renegade e-book feeling almost anxious because they sense they just found the mother-load... like stumbling into a goldmine but realizing you can't carry anything home until you do some planning.

This is similar to how many have felt when they found Magnetic Sponsoring.

The Renegade had the greatest impact of me between the two, but that is because I saw a missing element that I could not fill with Magnetic Sponsoring-teaching others.

I had read Mike Dillard's Magnetic Sponsoring and had employed some affiliate marketing strategies and the funded-sponsoring proposal out of what I learned in his MLM Traffic Formula course, but it wasn't until I found The Renegade Network Marketer and its 'sister' System, that I felt I could teach any of this stuff to my team.

That's what's most important to me because in network marketing it's about duplication.

I had been teaching network marketing (the old-school way) for years, and coaching is a passion. So when I saw how well Ann had put her Renegade package together specifically for beginners, I was excited to expand upon it. I started planning how I'd gather my team and clients and come back to mine the gold together. And that's what we did.

Within weeks, people who had been wasting thousands of dollars on leads to build their network marketing business and getting no where, who were afraid of Internet marketing up to that point, were employing The Renegade System strategies by following simple tutorials we had set up.

Over a hundred people on our team made the switch within weeks. We threw out the cold-calling and warm market stuff forever, and started generating leads and new income with the Renegade. The prospects started calling people on my team and they were thrilled. Over a hundred of my clients (many from other network marketing companies) started generating their own leads list, and then monetizing it. The whole 'training experiment' was a smash.

What's Next for The Renegade'ers and Magnetic Gurus?

The next big movement in this new model for network marketers is teaching others how to set it all up in step-by-step tutorials like we've done. I've seen proof of its power. People flock to you by the thousands to learn.

If you want to create your own system to do this make sure it is set up for the beginner in very small bite sizes, and that it's visual so they can literally follow along.

Also, remember how much Ann Sieg emphasized monetization in The Renegade Network Marketer. Make sure your training system increases monetization not just for you, but also for your team and prospects who should be able to use your training system with the same benefit you do.

I think you'll see this kind of training take the MLM industry by storm, and to the next level of maturity because it's exactly what the majority of network marketers who have read The Renegade (or Dillard's stuff) need.

So find a system that does this, like one we've created called Renegade University, or create one that meets the criteria above and you'll be ahead of the curve, positioned to attract a huge number of prospects to you, while earning a lot more cash flow if you monetize it properly. Then, you can lead those prospects to wherever it is you want them to end up (like your MLM business, for example).

A Brief History of Cisco Certification Training

2008-03-15T03:24:00.000-07:00

Cisco Systems was founded in 1984 by a married couple named Len Bosack and Sandy Lerner. They were computer engineers employed at Stanford University near San Francisco, California. The name cisco, which was originally spelled using a small c, was taken from San Francisco. It created the first commercially successful multi-protocol router. This was exactly the right product at the right time as it enabled previously incompatible computers to communicate with each other. The cisco router was thus instrumental in the establishment and growth of the internet. The change to the standard Internet Protocol (IP) cut drastically into the need for a multi-protocol router, but by this time the company was well established and able to diversify into other networking system products.

In 1990, just six years after it was founded, the company went public and the name was changed to Cisco Systems. The founders walked away with a nice profit of around 170 million dollars. In the following years, the company continued to grow. Just before the dot com. bubble burst, Cisco Systems was one of the richest companies in the world. Today, the company has managed to stay on the cutting edge of networking systems technology and has retained its position as a leader in the field of Internet technology.

Around 1993, the Cisco systems became involved in training with the establishment of Cisco Academies. The idea was to provide global training for network associates. Since they were being trained by Cisco to use Cisco equipment, the establishment of the Academies contributed to the growth of the company. Cisco training was established as a benchmark standard for network associates and IT technicians. Cisco was also a leader in the introduction of formal certification programs to insure the competence and skill level of networking employees. The idea was that college educations by themselves were not a guarantee of a person’s capacity to do a job. Cisco Certification training was established to prepare candidates to pass the Certification exams.

Although in recent years, other companies have introduced Certification programs, the Cisco Certification remains an important indicator of the skill level of a potential employee. This is especially true in the networking field. At the current time, Cisco Systems sponsors 9 different Certifications. They range from CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert) to CCSI (Cisco Certified Systems Instructor). The most common and entry level Certification is the CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate).

Magellan Network Systems Joins Softswitch Consortium

2008-03-12T23:13:00.000-07:00

Magellan Network Systems, maker of softswitches and enhanced telecom services systems, has joined the International Softswitch Consortium as a founding member.

The Consortium was formed earlier this year by Cisco Systems, Level 3 Communications, Enron Communications, Hewlett-Packard and other leading telecommunications vendors to promote open standards and applications permitting the convergence of the traditional telephone network with the Internet.

The 52-member Consortium promotes "softswitch" architectures that facilitate the interoperability of products supporting voice and multimedia communications over IP networks. Initial efforts are targeted at standard interfaces such as the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP), the Real-Time Transport Protocol (RTP), the Real-Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP) and the Media Gateway Control Protocol (MGCP).

Jeff Paine, Magellan vice president of marketing, said, "Our recently announced Mariner product, one of the first true softswitch implementations, is designed to provide call control and enhanced services in a legacy phone network, an IP network, or a hybrid of the two. The Softswitch Consortium's standardization efforts -- notably with SIP and MGCP -- will help us take Magellan's proven expertise in circuit-switched call control and apply it seamlessly to the ATM and IP network environments in controlling the gateways that run key voice services."

Founded in May 1999, the Softswitch Consortium is an international non-profit organization for global cooperation and coordination of internetworking technologies in the field of Internet-based real-time interactive communications and related applications. Many applications emulate circuit switching in software; hence the name "softswitch."

The Consortium identifies, selects and augments the development and distribution of standard interfaces for the call agents, media gateways and applications that make up IP networks. Additional information about the Consortium can be found on the organization's web site at www.softswitch.org.

Magellan Network Systems, founded in 1994, develops and markets carrier-quality, scalable telecommunications services platforms for a wide variety of service providers, including traditional telephone companies, Internet and Internet telephony service providers, and competitive and incumbent local exchange carriers.

The company's products offer an unprecedented range of enhanced services, including pre- and post-paid calling cards, long-distance resale, voicemail and unified messaging services, all with fully integrated billing and administration. Customers include British Telecom, Deutsche Telekom, In Touch Telecom, Startec and Kertel. Magellan is privately held and has 125 employees. For more information, visit Magellan's web site at www.magellan.com.

MCSE Certification - Requirements And Courses

2008-03-11T23:46:00.000-07:00

In this article we're going to go over the current requirements for getting an MCSE certification. Please keep in mind that these requirements could be old news by the time you read this. No knock on Microsoft intended.

So, you want to get an MCSE certification. Well, in order to do so you're going to have to pass a series of exams. As of this article, seven to be exact. Five of the exams are what they call core exams and the last two are called elective exams.

The five core exams consist of four operating system exams and one design exam. The four operating system exams offer the following choices. The first of the operating system exams is the client operating system. You need to take one of these. The last three are for the networking system itself. There is a bit of an overlap here so we'll just cover the choices as they apply to both options.

The overlaps are courses 2151 and 2152 which are Windows 2000 Network and Operating Systems Essentials and Implementing Windows 2000 Professional Server. Also in the overlap is course 1560 which is upgrading from Windows NT to Windows 2000.

This is where we have the breakoff between client operating system and the networking system. The last client operating system exams are course 2272 and 2285 which are Implementing Windows XP Professional and Installing and Configuring Windows XP Professional. This concludes the client operating system exams.

The remaining exams for the network system itself are courses 2153 and 2154. These include Implementing a Microsoft Windows 2000 Network Infrastructure and Implementing and Administering Microsoft Windows 2000 Directory Services.

The design exam comes with a number of options which cover Designing a Microsoft Windows 2000 Directory Services Infrastructure, Designing a Security-Enhanced Microsoft Windows 2000 Network, Designing a Microsoft Windows 2000 Networking Services Infrastructure, Designing a Highly Available Web Infrastructure, Designing a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory and Network Infrastructure and Designing Security for Microsoft Networks. The good part about the design option is that the student has a number of options to choose from.

The two elective exams are a bit of a blessing and a curse. There are numerous courses that can be taken for the two elective exams. The problem is, with so many choices a new student may have a difficult time deciding which one to take. With some being infinitely more difficult than the others, the choice can mean the difference between passing and failing the exams. Having said that, the more popular of the elective exams, which doesn't necessarily mean they are the easiest ones, are System Administration for Microsoft SQL Server 7.0, which has been a staple for years, Implementing a Database on Microsoft SQL Server 7.0, which is usually taken with the other SQL exam, thus completing the elective section, Implementing and Managing Microsoft Exchange 2000, which has been another long time staple and finally its cousin, Designing Microsoft Exchange 2000 for the Enterprise. There are of course other courses but these are the most popular.

In our next article look for more information on MCSE certifications.

A Brief Look At Merchant Accounts

2008-02-26T03:53:00.001-08:00

A bank allows businesses to accept credit cards, gift cards and debit cards by having a merchant account. A merchant account is a specialized bank processing account that uses a credit card terminal.

A credit card terminal is an electronic piece of equipment that allows the merchant to swipe or key in a credit card's information. This type of terminal allows merchant's to also be able to accept gift cards and debit cards and it check verification while processing. Merchants can use these terminals need to be connected to phone line, internet, or cellular service. There are many ways to obtain a merchant account.

Merchants can lease a terminal if they do not want to buy one or some banks will give the merchant a terminal for free in exchange for a long term contract. AS we all know though nothing in life is free, there are fees involved every time the terminal is used. Actually there are a variety of fees that are involved with merchant accounts. There are even different fees depending on if you swipe the card or punch it in manually.

There is an authorization fee that is charged each time a card is sent to the bank to be authorized. This is usually between 10 and 45 cents. This fee is charged even if the transaction is declined. A statement fee is a monthly fee that is charged to the merchant at the end of every month. This charge is usually a flat fee of $5-$10 dollar.

There is a monthly minimum fee to ensure that merchants pay a minimum fee each month to cover maintenance and minimal profits to the provider. If the merchants account does not meet the monthly minimum then the merchants will be charged a minimum fee usually around $25.

A batch fee or a header fee is charged to the merchant at the end of every day when the terminal is settled for the day. This is when a merchant is balancing their drawer at the end of the day and closes out the terminal to get a total amount of credit cards that were used for the day. If this is not done every 24 hours a higher rate will be assessed.

There can also be customer service fees, annual fees and numerous other fees. Before you get a merchant account set up you need to get a look at all these fees from your bank and see if you are going to have enough activity to make it worth your while to have a merchant account.

I Want To Sell Online, But How Should I?

2008-02-26T03:52:00.000-08:00

I want to sell online, but how should I?

With all the different opportunities on the internet, it's easy to become overwhelmed and frustrated. Maybe it's time to take a step back, rethink your plan, and just be honest about your abilities and what you want out of the business.

First consider your personality type...

Are you a highly educated, informed expert in your field? Consider writing an educational blog and articles of and about your profession and expertise.

Are you a highly motivated business person with a background in sales or communications? Consider affiliate or pay-per-click ad campaigns.

Are you a stay at home mom or dad just looking for extra income? Thought about writing about your hobbies interests?

Are you a power negotiator and always looking to strike the best deal? Maybe online auction is the way to go.

The great thing about writing in general, weather a blog or just a simple diary or journal, is the ability to bring another dimension of critical thinking into your work. Being able to look back and see early mistakes and subsequent improvement can bring a fantastic motivational boost.

Expression through writing can release pent-up energy, calm the mind, and engage imaginative and inspirational energy you never thought you had. Generating enthusiasm and much needed motivation.

Writing allows you to express your own unique knowledge and wisdom to the world in a way which was impossible twenty years ago. Allowing you to connect with people of similar interests all over the world.

No matter your level of education, or competence at writing. As you continue to write, your skills will grow. Just write from the heart, and the rest will fall into place!

Ultimately, your intentions become key to your ability to succeed. What are those intentions? Is your primary focus to enhance others lives in some way, Or just quick easy money? Your intentions will determine your success, and ability to persuade people to buy products from you.

Like any other business, there is no easy way to earn a fortune on the internet. Like many others, you too can earn a decent living here. Take the time to contribute something meaningful, then the money will follow.

I Want You to Read This Before You Attend Your Next Client Meeting

2008-02-26T03:51:00.000-08:00

American entreprenuers who live under time pressures tend to want to jump right into closing the sale before it's too late (whatever "too late" means -- with an infinite future in front of you, how can anything be too late?)

We spend almost every moment thinking about what we're going to do in the next moment. When we're with our children, our mind is on our business. When we're in the office with a client, our mind is daydreaming about our vacation. When we're supposedly listening to our spouse during a romantic dinner, we're thinking about what witty thing we are going to say next. We're always thinking about the next thing, the next event, the next task, or the next person we have to talk to at a networking event.

Our American business culture is so obsessed with managing time that we've forgotten what's important about time. When we are constantly multi-tasking, we think we're becoming more effective, but in reality we are making things far worse. That's because the person we're with immediately SENSES that our attention is on something other than them. When we don't focus our attention on hearing about a prospect's struggles, or successes, why should they focus on anything we say? When we don't value them, why should they value us?

Only you can stop yourself from obsessing about how little time you have. It is just part of our human nature to ALWAYS have far more to do than we have time available. Focus instead on making every prospect and client moment count. When you are in a room full of over a hundred small business owners, treat every moment together as though no one else in the room is more important - even if that moment is for just the blink of an eye. You may not even need to say many words, and yet you'll communicate to clients how special they are. In many Asian cultures, for example, people recognize and practice the concepts of "face" and harmony in ways Westerners do not. Beign direct and "getting all the issues out on the table" can be a good thing (according to the Western view), but the Asian approach of setting some conflicts and business agendas aside for the sake of maintaining a harmonious client meeting or respectful communication is equally legitimate. With everything you do in your business, you will become far more effective.

Now, here is one simple tip that is so profound, that it will immediately connect you at a DEEPER level with your clients. Whenever you are with another person, whether for a second or for several minutes, look into their eyes and focus on remembering everything about their eyes - the color, the shape, the length of their eyelashes. Look at every little red line in the whites of their eyes, see their shape and size. Stay focused on their eyes until you're sure you can recount every detail.

What will happen when you do this? Individuals will sense that your attention is nowhere else but on them. This will make them feel special. They will feel drawn to you, and soak up the undivided attention. You will see that the other person is actually listening to everything you're saying. Eliciting a desired win-win response will become easier and easier. And, once you experience that, you won't want to go back to looking at another person in the old way again. Each time you encounter another person, you will see their WORTH, and they will see yours. I guarantee that this will attract more paying clients, just the same way it has attracted all the local and global clients I need, so that I work less and make more money.

Overcome Networking Obstacles

2008-02-26T03:45:00.000-08:00

Executives in search of employment understand the importance of Networking. They know the statistics support networking as the main method for landing a new job and yet it is very difficult for most people. As a Job Search Coach for Executives and Technology Professionals I have heard myriad complaints and seen the devastation to careers when executives, especially "C" level executives don't network successfully.

• I just can't ask people for favors.
• I am the one who helps; I don't want to be seen as needy.
• I find it hard to start the conversation when it is about me.
• I hate cold calling.

Reluctance to network is the single largest barrier to landing new employment. The more senior the position, it seems, the more difficult it is for the candidate to ask for assistance to discover where the jobs are. Here are a few suggestions to overcome that hurdle. It is important to know your message and deliver it with confidence, but that is a topic for another article. Let's assume you have the patter down but find it hard to pick up the phone or send out that email.

POSSIBLE REMEDIES:
Use the phone. If you craft an enticing phone message and deliver it with energy and conviction, you will probably receive an encouraging response. By contrast, if you send email, nuance is impossible to detect and in fact, you are more likely to misinterpret busy or style for rejection. A telephone call gives you opportunity to detect the positive response and create a bond.

Contact in Threes: You have culled names from your contact lists of people who have worked for you and also have a list of people to whom you have been referred. Contact two people you know first. Leverage that success and confidence and call the third less known individual. Be sure to have a compelling message written down before you call.

Call at Odd Times: You are more likely to find someone at their phone at eight in the morning than ten. Executives are more likely to answer their own phones after six.

Get Introductions, Not Referrals: When you do connect with someone willing to open doors, as for introductions that mention you will be contacting the individual. Anyone can say, "Use my name," but an introduction insures you will get a response.

Five Key Networking Tips for Inventors

2008-02-25T04:00:00.001-08:00

While the swift cut-and-parry of creation is the heart of an inventor's life, there is another important component - networking. Let's face it; no matter how great your invention may be, you can always benefit from talented professionals in your field that might be willing to lend a hand.

Maybe it's that database programmer you've been scouring the earth for, or that distributor you need to get your product on store shelves, or a patent attorney to make sure your intellectual property is protected. Whatever the case may be, there are steps you can take to put yourself in the path of networking success.

In this article, we will examine five of the most helpful. By applying these tips to your day-to-day efforts, you will increase your odds of meeting the people you need to move your invention forward.

1) Have a clean, approachable website.

The benefit of having a simple website to send people to cannot be stressed enough. Let's say you are at a party or industry conference. Suddenly, you meet a new colleague and the two of you get to talking about your respective projects and goals.

As the conversation comes to a close, the colleague asks you, "So, how can I stay abreast of what you're up to, how can we keep in touch?" If you are networking-savvy inventor, you will reply, "Oh, no problem! My website is www.JohnDokes.com, it has all my contact information and what I'm working on. Check up on me there from time to time!"

This is extremely simple to do. Your website does not have to be flashy or fancy; a clean, black text on white background HTML layout will do just fine. As mentioned, your website should include your name, profession, hobbies, and areas of expertise, achievements, and maybe a periodical blurb about what things of importance you are working on at the time.

2) Print business cards and carry them at all times.

But what happens when you meet someone on the fly? There isn't always time to scribble down web URLs or phone numbers, and lack of preparedness could kill an otherwise great networking contact. Fortunately, this does not have to befall you. The solution is a timeless standby of professionals everywhere: business cards! Simply visit your local Kinkos and print up 200 standard business cards with your name, e-mail address, mobile phone, and anything else you deem relevant. Then, make a point of carrying 5-10 of them in your wallet with you at all times. With business cards in tow, you will be able to capitalize on networking opportunities wherever you happen to be - on vacation, at restaurants or coffee shops, even in the grocery store. You truly never know when you will meet someone important.

3) Consider a separate phone line or wireless phone for professional purposes.

While not an absolute necessity, you need to consider how a potential contact or partner might perceive you. If they call your house line and hear lots of family commotion in the background, it might send the message that you are ill-prepared to take on a serious venture of any kind. Whether this is reasonable to infer or not, perception is reality for many people. Therefore, it might make sense to get a separate landline or wireless phone for your professional needs. You would then print this number on your website and business cards instead of your house phone. A wireless phone is best because you can carry it with you and never miss an important call. In addition to upholding your professionalism, doing this also helps you delineate between different areas of your life.

4) Follow leads wherever they may appear.

Anyone who has been in business for long knows that leads and opportunities can crop up almost anywhere, at any time. It is not uncommon for new business partners to meet on vacation, over dinner and drinks, or while playing golf at a country club. Therefore, you should keep this in the back of your mind and be ready to pounce on new opportunities as they arise. If you are out on the green with someone and you get to talking about your professions, there is no shame in "testing the waters" and seeing if he is interested in new projects. Do not assume that just because you aren't in a business setting, you cannot pursue business leads. Truly successful inventors are creative and resourceful.

5) Use the direct approach whenever possible and appropriate.

Many people take a passive approach to life. Instead of acting to bring about some outcome, they simply hope it comes to be through osmosis. When it comes to networking, this attitude is a death sentence. If you want to meet the best people and bring them into the fold, you need to proactively seek them out. Let's say you are in desperate need of a graphic designer, for instance. Throw up an ad on Rent-A-Coder that says you're looking for one! Better yet, ask around your circle of friends and contacts to see if they know anyone with the skills you need. This is how networking happens. Of course, you should seek to establish some kind of relationship with a person before you just mine them for contacts. You wouldn't want to bombard someone you just met. But by all means: once you are on good terms with someone, feel free to ask them who they know.

Soft Goods Networking

2008-02-25T03:53:00.000-08:00

Soft goods are those items that help with the convenience of everyday life. There are different categories of soft goods out of which some are medical soft goods including lab coats, braces etc. Soft goods networking is amongst the very difficult tasks to carry out.

One mandatory thing is for the sender and the receiver to both have a friendly environment to accommodate the transactions without causing trouble. For stable soft goods networking, the computer on which the environment is saved needs to be reliable. For the networking to be fast and efficient, the Internet should be the mode of soft goods networking.

There are certain systems in which the purchase may be made after a trial use, limited to a certain period. This is more reliable, as it lets the buyer feel safer and less at risk of being duped. The goods may be replaced or returned if defective or unusable. There is a long list of things that are available and online sites carry different images and product details to help you make an informed decision.

At walk in shops, there are usually products that are out of stock or not available due to various reasons. In case you like something and it is out of stock you may be able to look it up on the Internet, access its different versions online, and buy the option you like. The network gives a vast choice of soft goods to choose from and reasonable prices to go with it. Soft goods networking also provides its customers with a door delivery service.

Expand Your Network by Reaching Out to the "Power Connectors"

2008-02-19T02:23:00.000-08:00

In every industry or profession, people of big influence exist. These are the people who have large networks and can make things happen. You can call them the "power connectors". Because of their network, they can virtually reach out to anyone they need to, which is a big component of their success. Having one of these people in your network is a huge asset that can quickly expand your reach. So, how do you identify one of these individuals?

First, if you attend a variety of industry events, then you will eventually meet some of these people or hear about them from others. These are the people who everyone in the room knows. Second, the speakers at industry events can be well connected. How else do you think that they were chosen as a speaker?

Third, executives in your industry from leading firms are fairly connected. By having a top position, these people will naturally have a large network.

So, how do you get to know these "power connectors?" You need to be proactive and reach out to them by 1) leveraging your network to get an introduction, 2) attending an event to listen to the person speak and then introducing yourself to this individual, or 3) finding a valuable reason to contact this person such as sharing industry news or sending a book of interest. How ever you decide to contact this person, make sure that it is tactful and you are putting the other person first.

When building relationships with "power connectors", find out how you can help them before you ask them to open up their networks. Take time to nurture these relationships and do whatever you can to gain credibility and trust. Make sure that you top of mind so invite them to events and keep them in the loop on your successes. When the time is right, these people will help you. These are some of the most important relationships you can have in your network so only leverage them when absolutely necessary. "Power connectors" are asked for favors all of the time so don't take advantage of your relationship with them.

Over time, you can too become a "power connector" by branding yourself as an authority in your industry. By having this image, you will have the opportunity to connect with many individuals. As you start to build new relationships, make sure that you focus on integrating a variety of people into your network with various backgrounds, titles, and industry knowledge. It is good to have a diverse network to draw upon, which will be helpful when assisting others.

The Three Most Important People in Any Business

2008-02-19T02:22:00.000-08:00

Whenever I do business with any company, I make it a point to meet the three most important people. These are the people the really know what is going on within the company every day. They have the most direct knowledge of daily activities and long term corporate strategy. When you go into any business, as a consultant or employee, make sure you meet all three.

The first is the most obvious. This is the person that signs the checks. Make sure you meet whomever it is that signs your pay check. Get to know him or her and establish a rapport. Chances are in a SMB environment this is also the business owner. From this person you will learn long term business strategy and the overall direction of the organization. By getting to know the owner of the business you will also get a good picture of the future of the company. If the owner is smart, dynamic, organized and passionate then chances are the company will go far. If the owner is lazy, arrogant and any other combination of negatives then you know what's coming.

The second person to meet is the individual responsible for cutting checks. I think you recognize the pattern so far. Basically, it is important to be friendly with the people that make sure you get paid. Before I became a consultant I always made it a point to be very friendly with the folks in the HR department. By getting to know the person that actually creates your checks you will get an idea for company finances. Is the company playing smart and safe with their money? Are they spending wisely or are they throwing money away on expensive office furniture? By becoming friendly with the person that writes the checks you will be able to learn the financial status of the business.

The third, and in many ways, most important person to get to know is the janitor. By this I mean whoever's job it is to clean up at night. This is the person that will tell you everything about the people in the office. For some reason, most people never speak to janitors, but they are an amazing resource for information about the people in a company. They know everything about everyone and are usually the best source for office gossip. They can tell you what coffee brand the director of marketing prefers, or they can tell you the gatekeeper's favorite flowers. They are knowledgeable about all the personality quirks of everyone in the office. By forging a good relationship with the janitor you will learn about potential allies and troublemakers.

By knowing these three primary players in any business you are in a position to have an inside track. The Check Signer will know about company strategy, long term plans and current goals. The Check Writer can talk about finances, spending, investments and cash flow. The Janitor knows the personalities of everyone at work and he will also know their secrets. By forging alliances with all three of these people you will gain a sizable advantage in any business environment.

How To Get Consistent Referrals

2008-02-18T04:00:00.001-08:00

How many times have we heard the saying "Hope is not a plan," and thought "Yikes! I should probably take a look at my marketing calendar." Many of us get caught up in day to day operations and completely forget to plan. It's only when referrals are low or non-existent that we begin to think about marketing.

When was the last time you communicated with your referring clients? Generally you should be in touch with your clients monthly to bi-monthly, minimally-- depending on your field. If you can't remember the last time you contacted your clients, you may benefit from using a referral marketing calendar. Depending on your preferences, your marketing calendar could be electronic or a hard copy paper calendar.

It can be difficult, stressful, and sometimes completely ineffective to plan and execute marketing activities on a whim. Schedule time each week to review, update, and develop your referral marketing calendar. After you've entered activities on your calendar, print out the current month and hang it near your desk. It is helpful to have something tangible to remind you and help keep you on track. Be sure to also document the following:

1. Money invested.

2. Time invested.

3. Results derived.

4. Repeat activity or reject activity (based on results/return on investment).

Keep special occasions in mind when planning your activities, such as holidays, special client anniversaries, and events related to your particular business.

When was the last time you planned out your referral marketing activities for the year? If you are waiting until your business slows down you are waiting too long. Referrals are a great way to sustain a business, however they take time to nurture and flourish. Plan today for referral success tomorrow and produce a steady, consistent stream of referrals for yourself.

Networking - 10 Ways to Survive and Thrive at Networking Events

2008-02-18T03:58:00.000-08:00

Are you attending a networking event? It can be intimidating if you don't know what to say and do.

Here are 10 tips to help you survive and thrive at networking events:

1. Arrive as early as you can. You'll avoid the angst of walking into a room full of strangers. Even better, you'll avoid having to look for a seat while everyone stares at you, or has to move over to make room for you at the table.

2. When you meet someone new, stand up and shake their hand. Maintain good eye contact.

3. Prepare a few questions to get the conversation started. It might be about the event or venue, or how often they have attended in the past.

4. Bring lots of business cards, and have them available. You'll avoid having to rummage through your bag or pockets trying to locate them.

5. Exchange business cards at the start of the meeting. You can place the cards you receive in front of you, in the order that people are sitting around the table.

6. Be prepared to introduce yourself and your services. Plan your introduction so you aren't caught like a deer in the headlights.

7. Prepare any materials you will present, including notes from the last meeting.

8. Be curious about the other people at the meeting, and be a good listener. You'll pick up interesting ways to connect afterwards.

9. Look for ways to help others. You may not need the product or service of someone in the group, but you may know someone who does. Go out of your way to help them. You never know when they will do the same for you.

10. Follow up afterwards. Nothing happens without follow up. Arrange to meet for lunch or coffee, or at one of your offices.

Whine Tasting - Top 5 Excuses for Networking

2008-02-14T01:33:00.000-08:00

Networking is such an incredible tool for everyone, regardless of your profession, industry or trade. When used properly and effectively, networking can yield incredible results that can last a lifetime. So why are we not networking more and developing our communication skills, creativity, resources etc.? Listed below are the main excuses for why most people choose not to network. This article is designed to encourage the reader to dispel common myths associated with networking and become an Elite Networking Champion!

Excuse #1: I do not need to Network.

This is the most common excuse that could be far from the truth. There is no one definition of networking. Many people view networking as getting a job, internship or maneuvering through a career transition. On the contrary, networking can be whatever you need for it to be according to your professional or social endeavors. It should be viewed as a lifestyle and not a moment event. Networking should be a continuous part of your social and professional development. Also, networking should not be restricted to simply business functions, events, meetings, interviews, etc. Networking can occur anywhere, anytime and with anyone.

Excuse #2: I do not like to Network.

Once again, you must define what is considered networking and outline the benefits of networking. Networking offers you a chance to develop connections with people and build relationships for success. You can gain resources, knowledge, services, products, etc. that can help you advance in your career or academics. Networking allows you to make strategic partnerships that can save you precious time and money. It is also a skill that can improve your communication with others and enhance your professional approach in business matters.

Excuse #3: I am not good at Networking.

The more times you practice and utilize networking, the better you become. In order to become good at networking, you must be consistent. One of the best ways to achieve that goal is to join a chamber of commerce or professional organization. There will already be a structure or model in place to facilitate effective networking activities. Prepare for each networking event and create a list of goals that you would like to achieve from networking. At networking events, make it a point to build pre-mature relationships with your business counterparts and follow up in a timely manner.

Excuse #4: Networking does not work for me.

Many people try networking a few times, are not satisfied with the results and ultimately quit. We believe that networking is for everybody. If you tried networking and did not achieve much success, change your approach towards networking. Find a different organization to attend events. Ask friends and colleagues about various networking opportunities. Join associations or clubs that you are passionate about because networking does not have to be strictly business.

Excuse #5: I do not like Networking/attending events alone.

When you are starting out, you might have to attend events alone and network by yourself. But eventually, you will meet new people, join groups and have a network of your own. Do not be discouraged or become an introvert when attending functions. Do your best to actively meet and connect with people.

Nine Networking Tips for Success

2008-02-14T01:32:00.000-08:00

When you enter the networking mixer do you feel like you have a two-foot perimeter of open space surrounding you? Everyone seems to be comfortably settled into clusters as they socialize unaware of your presence. You try to make eye contact but you don't recognize anyone. You search for the bar. Even though you're not thirsty, having something in your hand might make you appear to be festive and casual.

Walking determinedly across the room makes you look powerful, you hope. Time stands still. You make idle chat with the bar tender, waiting to be rescued from this miserable time warp. Even though you were hoping to make business contacts, you're not sure about the approach. Let's face it, you can't just walk up to a stranger and say, "Hey by the way I'm with A-1 Plumbing, do you have any clogged drains?" You decide to leave after 30 minute networking is too uncomfortable. Oh well, at least you showed up. Maybe it'll be better next time.

Whether you are just out of college, in career transition or building a successful business, networking is a necessity to form lasting business relationships that lead to referrals. Here are some tips to make your networking pay off.

Do your research
Before you go to a networking function, decide whom you want to meet in advance and why you want to meet them. Go to your Business Journal's Book of Lists or the membership roster to learn more about the attendees and members. If the people you want to meet have a website, visit it and when you meet them, you now have something to comment on. People are flattered when you are interested enough to find out about them before actually meeting them.

Act like a host
By calling new members of your organization before the mixer and inviting them to meet you there, you accomplish several things: You help them become acclimated into the club, you have someone to introduce around and you make a new business acquaintance that will be grateful for your leadership.

Play matchmaker
Become a resource person by thinking ahead of how you can help others get leads and referrals. Make a mental note of how to get these contacts together. Go one step further by making a few phone calls before the meeting so you can facilitate the introductions.

Take your business cards
I have been to so many functions where someone could have had my business or a good lead, but they didn't have a card. The excuses range from running out to being in a career transition-all the more reason to have at least a generic model. If you are in transition or a graduating college student, chances are you are looking for a position. Have a plain card with your name, phone number and e-mail. If you want to be creative you might also include a favorite quote. It will serve as a conversation piece or an icebreaker.

Get their card
Novices at networking regularly fail to ask others for their card. A rule of thumb: if they ask for your card it means they are interested. Return the request immediately by asking for theirs and jot down any information on the back of the card that might jog your memory later. It's actually more important to get their card because that puts you in a position of control if you decide you need to contact them in the future.

Focus on the relationship
Even though it's important to exchange business cards, the purpose of networking isn't a competition to collect business cards, nor is it to conduct business. The focus should be on meeting new people and establishing new business and professional relationships.

Polish your communication skills
Be in the present moment by using good eye contact and smiling. It's rude to stare, but it's also impolite to have darting eyes suggesting that there is someone more interesting across the room. Listen and ask questions more than you speak. No one wants to be around a know-it-all or a bore. Read body language. Recognize that if someone is rubbing their neck, yawning or has darting eyes, they are probably bored or simply lack good communication skills. Make a gracious exit.

Let others join in
There is nothing more miserable than to be standing outside a circle of people who are so engrossed in conversation that you feel ignored. Become observant to those who seem lost and invite them into the conversation by saying, "join us...we were just talking about..." Then at an appropriate time introduce yourself to them and introduce them to the group.

Get out of your comfort zone
Visit briefly with old friends but don't cling to them. Instead look for ways to introduce each other to new acquaintances. Recognize that the more people you meet the more comfortable and fun it will be in the future and the more people you know, the more business opportunities you create.

Whine Tasting - Top 5 Excuses for Networking

2008-02-13T01:57:00.001-08:00

Nine Networking Tips for Success

2008-02-13T01:56:00.000-08:00

Golf and Business Equals Success

2008-02-11T02:22:00.001-08:00

Social schmoozing has long been recognised as an effective method of building business relationships and wooing new clients. Martini lunches and cigars were the tools used a generation ago. These days golf is considered the most important schmoozing skill, so much so that many executives attain their positions based on golf prowess alone. In fact, not playing golf can have a negative impact on business careers. Many non-golfers are finding that they hit professional stagnation due to golfing colleagues being promoted above them.

Women, determined to break into the old-boys' business network, are also taking advantage of 18-hole business practices. More and more women are signing up for classes and joining clubs to try and redress the male dominated networking imbalances of the past. Specialists in the golf and business market advise women to go as far as advertising their interest in the sport by hanging golf pictures in their offices. Bringing a putter and some golf balls to work is also an acknowledged signal of golfing interest.

Bill Storer, an expert on mixing golf and business, recommends that in order to increase your chances of success, you classify clients in one of four personality categories:

· Realtors - team players who value relationships
· Socialisers - emotional people who love an audience
· Thinkers - organised and detailed
· Directors - decisive, goal orientated, and stylish

Once you've identified your client's personality type, you can adapt your tactics to suit them.

A key factor in the golf schmooze is to learn proper golf etiquette. Don't talk when someone is about to hit a shot, don't step in the line of a putt, and always treat the course with respect. This means that you replace divots and rake bunkers when you're out of them. Your behaviour after a bad shot, or several bad shots, is also vital. Losing your temper and throwing your clubs around doesn't leave your client with a particularly favourable view of your character. Disregarding these protocols creates the impression of arrogance and inconsideration. At best, the client will lose all respect for you. At the worst, you could cost your company a prized contract.

It's considered poor form to leap straight into business talk and try work down to the nitty gritty of a deal. Some clients don't mind talking business on the course, while others prefer to keep it strictly social. Bill recommends waiting until the fifth hole to talk shop, and refraining from further talk after the fifteenth. This gives you and your client enough time to settle into your games and to concentrate on your closing approach. It's important to remember that the purpose is to improve your relationship with the client. To achieve this you should make every effort to get to know your client better on a personal level. Finalising business is a secondary concern.

Finally, the big question: do you play to win, or play to let your client win? That could depend on your client's temperament, and on how important winning at all costs is to his or her. Generally you should aim to play your best game. If it's obvious that you're losing on purpose, you risk embarrassing and insulting your client. There is, however, no sense in embarrassing them the other way with a sound drubbing either.

Golf schmoozing looks to be business-networking strategy, with successful outcomes virtually guaranteed. It's a tool open to exploitation by both women and men, which helps to level the promotion playing field. While it's considered bad form to play the sycophant and lose on purpose, it's perhaps wise to remember the old saying, "Show me a good loser, and I'll show you someone who's playing with his boss."

What I Hate About Networking

2008-02-11T02:20:00.000-08:00

OK OK, I don't really hate networking, but there are some aspects of networking I really do hate. Why do you care? Because if you understand WHY I hate these things YOU will make more money. Let me explain:

I was thinking about this in my car the other day. Networking is like hunting for birds in the bushes with a Gatling gun. You can't really see if any birds are actually in the bush but you shoot anyway. Every once in a while a bird drops dead out of a bush and you think "Success! This really works!" Except the gun fired 100 rounds and the bird was sick...

Networking's alot like that. You spend 80 percent of your time networking and every once in a while you get a referral. Success! This really works! Except you've spent dozens of hours to find a client that wants a $1000 job. Sound familiar?

When most people decide to go into business, they are brilliant at "the thing" that they do. They may take business classes and hear things like - "you must spend time marketing your business" and that networking is important. So they join a group with a vague idea of what they're supposed to be doing and what they'll get out of it. Meanwhile, they can't identify who they REALLY want as a client (their true target market), and they go in with the hope of thousands of dollars in referrals and quickly become very disappointed.

See, most people are networking in the dark. Well, let me flip on the light switch!!

Networking groups are great and they're really important to your business IF and only if you understand how deep networking really is.

Take out a penny and study it. Right now. Study the penny for two minutes. Go ahead. I'll be here when you get back.

So what did you notice?

The penny is more complex than that thing you left on the sidewalk because it wasn't worth picking up... Networking is like that too.

The thing that drives me crazy about networking groups is that some of them offer pretty good education on how to work their system. The problem is most people think that's it. "Oh I see, it's a penny. Well, that's all I need to know...so where are my referrals? This system doesn't work!"

By their very nature, networking groups focus on referrals and results and when people don't see the results they want, the "system" doesn't work. It IS the system's fault (despite what the group will tell you) to the extent that nobody told them how to work it as it applies to their business and it's overall vision.

If you're out there in a networking group or going to a chamber and you don't know exactly what you're looking for (and it isn't "as many referrals as you can get") STOP!!

If you don't know where you're going that's exactly where you'll end up. And if you're just out there giving referrals to get referrals and you have no idea who your dream client is, then all you're going to get is the kinds of referrals and clients you DON'T want.

Do yourself a huge favor and decide what kinds of customers you really want. Which of your clients make your life easy? What company specifically do you want to do business with?

The big lie about networking, infomercials and introductions is this: If you have a great infomercial that makes people want more information that is all you need to do.

That's a lie. If you have a great infomercial and you don't know what kinds of clients make you money and which once don't, a great infomercial won't help you.

Don't be like so many of my students who discover that, although they get a ton of referrals, they are people who drive them crazy and don't generate enough revenue to begin to cover the time they take out of the day.

Are You Getting Out There In A Big Way?

2008-02-08T01:43:00.001-08:00

Getting out and meeting people will bring many benefits to you and your business. The good news is that many events are low cost or sometimes even free to attend!

Networking Groups- There are so many groups around now with more starting up every week, or so it seems. Networking is a great way of making new contacts, if you go about it the right way.

You'll meet lots of other business owners and often find that you face similar business challenges and can learn from each other's experiences.

Seminars & Workshops - All business owners are hungry for extra knowledge and to discover more ways to improve their businesses. There's usually an opportunity to chat before the event or during coffee breaks.

Tasters - Groups that are looking to recruit new members often have taster or visitor events. Sometimes they're free or there is just a small charge for refreshments.

Keep in Touch

When you meet people at events, it's worth keeping business cards of those who share your target market (even competitors might pass on work if they get overloaded). Some contacts may be useful alliances if you provide a complimentary service to theirs. Don't just meet them once at an event, keep in touch, have coffee or lunch, get a relationship going.

So, Get Out There!

The more you get out there, the more people will know about your business, and the more opportunities will come your way!

Benefits of Joining a Forum

2008-02-08T01:40:00.000-08:00

One of the worst places to be in your business or profession is becoming stuck. For writers, it may be writer's block. For speakers, it could be lack of engagements. And for entrepreneurs and small business owners, it's likely that next brilliant idea that could bring in more sales or attract more leads.

So how do you get unstuck without contracting a consultant on retainer?

You can attend a workshop, eavesdrop on a teleconference call or register online for an e-course. But a one-time event most likely will not be enough to get you over your hump. You'll get better traction if somebody, or a group of your peers guides you through a step-by-step process.

Someone (who may already have been where you are now) to show you an alternative direction. Someone with your best interest in mind. And someone you can trust.

In short: A forum or some other type of think tank...

You can join and participate with a group of forward thinking individuals with a single purpose. You can meet weekly, bi-weekly or monthly. And you can build lasting relationships.

You'll likely gain an advantage by receiving a continual stream of professional input. You'll also get to bounce ideas around for feedback from a trusted group of like-minded experts. They could see something from an experience angle that you may have overlooked. That alone could save you a ton of money, customer service headaches and a lot of grief.

Five reasons to get started now:

1) Sharing common interests. If you joined a group of weekend bikers, you already know what the central topic and subtopics are. You'll probably talk about motorcycle magazines, accessories, maintenance, detailing and tuned exhaust pipes. And then share a bunch of biking stories, run-ins with the law, and near misses that could make the hairs on the back of everyone's necks stand at attention.

2) Flow of new ideas. Imagine giving, receiving and recommending tips, tools and pointers that foster your group's growth. You get to pool together the resources of your entire group to solve problems, share tactics and testify to success stories.

3) Minimal investment. Most special interest groups, clubs or organizations do not charge high dues for membership. Their goal is to build a steady, growing membership. It's when you get involved with business groups, investment clubs and marketing mentorship-you can expect to pay anywhere from two- to four-figures a month.

4) Networking opportunities. You can expand your business network and exposure through word-of-mouth marketing, referrals and sponsored events. The more people know and like you-the more business will come your way. It's easier to land the big account if someone in your sphere of influence puts in a good word for you. Really.

5) Forming new friendships and alliances. This is the icing on the cake. Not only do you share common interests already, but also you get to share it with people you like. And you get to look forward to deeper and more meaningful experiences the more time you spend together.

How Can Twitter & Plaxo Help Increase Your Sales?

2008-02-07T01:33:00.000-08:00

These days we are all being bombarded with invitations to a plethora of on line social networks and many of us are a little confused as to why in the world we should join one? While not all Social Networks are worth the investment of your time to join and input a profile, some such as Twitter and Plaxo can actually be very helpful in connecting with your network.

Twitter.com is a very basic site that allows members to post their name, picture, a URL to their blog or web site and a short description of who they are. The one thing twitter is designed to do is answer a simple question - "What are you doing right now?" There is a 140 character text box that allows members to answer that question and anyone following their profile will see the answer as they post it. In turn, members can follow other people to keep up with what they are doing. While Twitter may sound like something a teenager would use instead of instant messaging or texting on their cell phone, it actually has some great applications for business.

Take Seth Godin for example. Anyone can follow Seth on twitter which is great because he updates it every time he publishes a new post on his blog. A user can click on a link to the new blog post right there in Seth's twitter and see his latest post. Twitter is also a great way to throw a question out to a lot of people for a quick answer. For example, avid twitter user Marc Nathan asked "anyone have any cheap / DIY solutions for a digital display? Like a digital photo frame, but it's larger and can handle wireless updates" and within an hour Geri Druckman answered "use any flat panel monitor, attach to the back of it a Linux thin client (a cheap one) and voila! any size, no limit pic frame." Pretty cool.

But perhaps even more interesting is that Facebook and Plaxo allow members to publish their twitter comments on their profile for those sites (in the case of Plaxo, members post their twitters in Plaxo Pulse). As a result, a member's name can constantly be in front of anyone linked to them in Facebook or Plaxo any time they look at recent activity - talk about great top of mind awareness!

Plaxo especially has done a great job of aggregating other on line activity in several well known sites like technorati and flickr as well as personal blogs through the Pulse tab. Members of a user's network on Pulse can see updates as they are posted to multiple other on line sites consolidated in one place. Plaxo Pulse also offers forum functionality that allows users to poll their networks on topics ranging from business to politics and then interactively comment on and track the results.

While keeping up with a Plaxo Pulse stream or Twitter posts may seem like one more item in to keep track of in an already information overloaded workplace, it does provide something that many newsletters and magazines don't and that is highly relevant feedback. In a society that is starting to rebel against interruption marketing, getting feedback from a personal network can be invaluable in building meaningful conversation with prospects and customers.

One thing to consider when joining any social network is that you will get out what you put in. Followers on Twitter will lose interest if you do not create relevant posts on a regular basis. Relevant posts are not updates like "eating dinner", but rather updates like "Eating texmex dinner at Arturo's on Smith Street- the food is phenomenal". The first post would be of little importance to followers while the second would get the attention of anyone who likes texmex food and give some great free advertising to a restaurant that you like and would like to see stick around. And remember that if you set your Plaxo Pulse to post your twitters, you will want to make sure they are relevant for whichever groups you allow to see them. Also, make sure that you are following other users (either on Twitter or Plaxo Pulse) and contributing to the discussion of their posts as well - this is a great way to establish rapport with your connections.

Are You Neglecting Your Network?

2008-02-07T01:30:00.000-08:00

As a business owner you know a lot of people, and you continue to meet new people. This is your network. But what are you doing with it? How often do you connect with people in your network? Do you have a plan to stay in touch consistently and develop your relationships?

If you've been neglecting your network it's time to make some changes. It's never too late to begin where you are and start connecting with the people you know.

Networking is about giving first. It's about building relationships over time with people. If you don't invest in nurturing and growing your relationships with people in your network, then your network will become nothing more than a list of names in a database.

When you stay in touch and develop relationships with people, your business will be top of mind when people need your products or services. This also increases the number of referrals people will give to your business.

To nurture a relationship, you must give it attention and energy. There are loads of ways to connect with people (many of which are very inexpensive). You can:

* Pick up the phone

* Send an e-mail

* Send a note the old fashioned way (otherwise known as snail-mail using the post)

* Meet in person for coffee, lunch or a drink

Finding a reason to connect isn't hard to do. You don't have to wait for something big to happen; little things can mean a lot too. Here are just a few ideas:

- No specific reason, just to see what's new and catch up

- Birthdays or anniversaries

- Sharing an article, book, website, or other resource

How often you touch base depends on the kind of relationship you have with each person. For some people connecting twice a year is perfect and for others every three months is appropriate. You might have monthly contact with people you know quite well and for very close relationships perhaps even more frequently.

Think about different types of people you know and how often you'd like to be in touch with:

> New acquaintances

> Current clients

> Inactive clients

> Former colleagues

> Suppliers for your business

The key to successfully nurturing your network is to create a structured plan. Random acts of kindness and connection never hurt, but to really build a relationship it's better to have consistent contact.

To make it easy to stay in touch, you need to use a system to keep track of who you want to contact and when. If you rely on your memory you won't get very far.

You can create a system by setting reminders in your own contact database. Or if you use Outlook, you can use the 'Tasks' feature where you can make notes with reminder dates.

The type of system you use isn't important. What is important is having a system and taking action. Find something that works for you and get started today.

Business Cards - You Must Have Them, But You Have Options

2008-02-06T02:07:00.001-08:00

One thing that all businesses must have is a quality set of business cards. It doesn't matter if your business is dog walking or dog food manufacturing, the surest way to signal to your prospective customers that you aren't a serious business is to hand them a handwritten piece of paper with your information on it. You must have a color business card, printed on card stock, in order to be a serious business.

So, you have two choices. You can purchase professionally printed business cards, either at a local store like Office Max, or you can buy online at a place like VistaPrint.com Both of them will require you to purchase at least 250 of the cards, and will run you between $30 and $80 per batch, depending on what options you have. Online sites like VistaPrint have business card templates that you can use to design your card before it is printed, which can be a nice benefit.

The other option is to make them yourself. In this case, you have three main options.

The first is creating yourself, printing yourself. This is the cheapest method, and you can usually print them in quantities of 10 or less at a time. Virtually all word processing packages have a business card template you can use, though they are often extremely bland. Open up Microsoft Word, select new, and select business card as a template. Type in your name and address in the few choices you get, and you're all set. A short trip to an office supply store will get you card stock paper, some especially made for home printers, and you're good to go.

The second method is to use business card software to create your cards. Several are available, some as freeware, that allow you to have a better experience in creating your own cards, including changing colors, designs, logos, etc. Often these will allow you to either print directly, or allow you to export an image that you can use to print. If you are a designer, you can use professional-grade image software like photoshop to create exactly how you want things to look, including the use of fancy techniques like fades and gradients.

Finally, you can do a blend of both. Use your word processor or software to design your card, but print them at one of the online shops, like VistaPrint. They usually allow you to upload the full image you want printed, and often you can get good quality cards for $20 or less, including shipping. Once you have your card uploaded, they generally store them for you, so that you can either order another one if you have an employee, or if you ever need more.

3 Things You Should Know Before You Go To A Networking Event

2008-02-06T00:21:00.000-08:00

Very few people make any preparation for a networking event. Those that are experienced networkers are even worse. We think that being dressed professionally and having a good opening line is all that we need to have a good networking event.

But you are going to spend several hours of your free time doing this event. Does it make sense to arrive unprepared with no clear goals? Remember it's YOUR time that you are using at these events.

So here are three things that you should be clear about prior to arrival.

1. Know yourself.

How are you feeling? Rushed? Stressed? Put upon? Don't really want to go? First be aware of your mood and if negative, figure out how to put it away for the event. If you need to, arrive a little late and give yourself some up time. Go browse a favorite store, grab a cup of your favorite coffee, whatever it takes to put yourself in a better place, relaxed and positive.

What happens if you don't? You see it all the time. People looking stressed, tired, unfocused. More worried about the food or drink than networking. They just want to relax, join up with someone they know and talk (whine?) about their work day.

I certainly understand. But what are you accomplishing then? If you are using a networking event to unwind, wouldn't it make sense to just head on home? The other thing is that you are sending out signals, negative signals. Not a productive use of your time.

2. The second thing you should know is who's going to be there.

Many networking events are constructed so that you know who else is registered. You should check it the afternoon of the event. (Typically 50% register within the final two days, depending on the type of event). Search for people you would like to talk to, whether similar businesses, to sell or buy from or even a business that you would like to know more about.

By focusing on several people you would like to meet, you already have made the event more meaningful for you to attend. It's also going to force you to circulate the room more (to find them), introduce yourself to people and make you more active at the event. You don't need to tell them you were specifically looking for them, but introduce yourself as you would to anyone else.

When you do meet up with 2 or 3 people that you had marked for conversation, you'll have accomplished something positive! Unconsciously, you will be feeling good about that and it will show. Chances are you'll be feeling pretty good and people will respond to that.

On a final note for this section, when you look at who you would like to meet expand your idea of who would be useful to you besides just a possible sales prospect. How about meeting someone that ....

o Has a business that you have an interest in?

o Appears to be well connected in the community?

o Is in a position that you have an interest in?

o Might have services that YOU could use?

o Might have services that someone you know could use?

o Has an off the wall business that you aren't clear on, but it might be interesting to know about?

o Or business that you should know more about, but don't understand... something like internet marketing? (I still don't get it!)

The bottom line is that there are a lot of people out there with a lot of knowledge that YOU may not have and networking is a fantastic opportunity to meet them and gain from it. Certainly we would like to get business from networking, but by opening yourself to the wide range of people that you could meet, you have a much better chance of making any networking event a more profitable use of your time.

3. Know your goals!

Certainly adhering to step 2 would be a great start to making a goal for networking. But there are certainly other things that you can focus on as well depending on what you want to accomplish. Getting an appointment to meet (or meetings) with one or more people, getting to know someone better (building that relationship), getting a certain amount of business cards, introducing yourself to the powers that be (if a chamber event, the officers and the people who work at the chamber), and meeting X amount of new people (a great networking goal!).

Making goals doesn't have turn into this high pressure "business" thing. But BY making goals, you are more likely avoiding the opposite extreme which is to show up, talk to some people and then go home.

Successful people in any business today know the value of preparation. For some meetings, the preparation can take a great deal longer than the meeting itself. But good prep is likely to create good meetings. It is no different with networking. The good news is preparation time is pretty short, checking out where our head is at, how's coming and what you want to accomplish. In fact, after doing it a time or two, it will be pretty natural and talk just a few minutes. But the payoff is significant.

Broadband Internet Plans - The Fast Access With Lucrative Prices

2008-02-05T00:37:00.001-08:00

Internet has offered immense convenience to people, with the advancement in technology, internet has touched each and every strand of our lives. We connect, communicate, shop, work and entertain with the help of the internet. We need connectivity every hour of the day to carry out our official work, chat with our friends, and shop online. No one can imagine handling business without the internet; no corporate house can exist in this high tech world without the internet.

This is our prime source of every kind of information in he easiest way. With blogging, online communities, online shopping everything seems to be overtaken by the world of web. From personal to professional internet serves every need of ours. With so much influence of the internet in our lives we need to stay connected all the time. Internet has become an essential part of our lives and we need to be online 24 hours a day, seven days of the week for uninterrupted work. Due to such extensive use of it we need connections which are reliable and fast.

Broadband internet plans are the smart alternative to the conventional dial up access in which the data transfer is not very fast. The broadband is a reliable and dedicated high speed internet connection which offers higher data transmission rate. It gives us ease to download large files like videos, photographs and other bulky data with a faster speed. The broadband connection is definitely more efficient; however, we need to select the correct plan as a lot of service providers offer broadband services. The plans come with a variety of offers like free surfing hours, low rates, free downloads etc. The plans can be selected as per one's convenience and requirements. A variety of internet service provider companies are present which facilitate fast speed internet. So avail the best plan and start surfing the world of web.

Detailed Definition of T3 Bandwidth, Also Referred To As a DS3

2008-02-05T00:07:00.000-08:00

DS-3 which stands for Digital Signal Level 3, equates to 28 T-1 lines or 44.736 million bits per second (roughly 43-45 Mbps upstream/downstream speeds). DS-3s have enough bandwidth to allow very large database transferring over busy wide area networks and the capability of handling 672 simultaneous voice conversations. DS-3s typically run long haul over fiber optics and coax in the last mile, however there are many exceptions to this. Also, because fiber is only available in limited parts of the US (vs. copper), expensive build-outs are sometimes required for full DS-3 access.

In North America, DS-3 translates into T-3, which is the equivalent of 28 T-1 channels, each operating at a total signaling rate of 1.544 Mbps. The 28 T-1s are multiplexed through an M13 ('Multiplex 1-to-3' multiplexer), and 188 additional signaling and control bits are added to each T-3 frame. As each frame is transmitted 8,000 times a second, the total T-3 signaling rate is 44.736 Mbps. In a channelized application, T-3 supports 672 channels, each of 64 Kbps. In the European hierarchy, a DS-3 is in the form of a E-3, which runs at a total signaling rate of 34.368 Mbps, supports 480 channels, and is the equivalent of 16 E-1s.

If you're moving a DS-3 (or any other DS signal) across continents, the standards of the target country rule. Channels get muxed and demuxed, with signaling conventions translated as well. For example: On the US side T-1s are in multiples of 24 x 64 Kbps circuits (total 1.5 Mbps) and in the UK, it's 30 x 64 Kbps (total 2 Mbps). If you were to interconnect to the US at a DS-3 level, you would not receive 28 T-1s with 6 spare channels- You would get multiples of 30 E/T-1s. As they arrived in the UK, they would be muxed and demuxed, along with translated signaling conventions.

Who uses DS-3s? Companies who host high traffic web sites, support web hosting, and need high capacity bandwidth on an as-needed basis. Also universities/colleges, government offices, and high volume call centers. A full DS3 can accommodate many simultaneous users depending on the requirements of the business. Generally a DS3 line is installed as a major networking channel for large corporations or universities with high volume network traffic. This is an always-on, high-speed connection that provides a dedicated, stable and reliable link to the Internet, and can support up to 500 or more computer users.

How To Dynamically Strengthen Your Networking Skills To Make Each Connection More Profitable

2008-02-02T01:44:00.000-08:00

One morning we had a terrible thunderstorm and the power went out all over the city. It wasn't long before I got really stir crazy with no computer and no outside contact. Since my garage door wouldn't open because of the lack of electricity, I called a cab and went to my nearby Barnes and Noble with my laptop carefully in tow.

My seven-hour visit turned out to be an amazing and organic networking experience. The store's generators provided electricity, so it was light, warm, and cozy. But I found myself surrounded by like-minded people - entrepreneurs and others who dislike being in the dark. Some of us got on line, others read their books and newspapers, and conversations began to range across tables as we gradually started to feel our sense of community. When the chairs and benches filled up, people began sitting on the floor. We found ourselves talking, laughing, sharing experiences, trying to solve political and business problems and getting to know each other. And those of us who realized it was an unusual but fantastic networking opportunity also exchanged business cards and ideas with our new friends.

See every contact as a networking opportunity

There is never a time when you are not networking. And if you look at it as making or deepening a connection with others, those moments will take on new meaning. If you are at a meeting, make notes on the back of their business card and ask for their permission to call them the next day. (And then of course, be certain to call them!) If it is a casual and unexpected conversation, you might choose to make notes for yourself at the end of the day regarding what was said, what potential you discovered and what action you plan to take.

If networking is on your mind you'll find opportunities everywhere. There is no question that networking is a very valuable marketing strategy, however, it's also one that we need to personalize to fit our personalities. Whether you are shy, or whether you are "out-there" here's one secret that works for everyone: people like to talk about themselves so all you have to do is ask a compelling question and then listen.

Make a deeper connection through active listening

This is not about listening until you can get a word in and talk about yourself. It is about hearing what not only is being said, but what is not being said, noting the body language and facial expressions to interpret the words you are hearing. You see, marketing is about finding the perfect fit and since you know what you are looking for, active listening will help you decide if what you have to offer is what the other person needs.

Ease into the conversation

As a naturally enthusiastic person, I have to constantly be on the lookout to be certain I blend my energy with the person I am speaking with. And when I am ready to share I also have to determine how much information I can give the person so they can still hear me. So I ease into a conversation with a few short questions that help determine what needs to be said and what can easily be left out. Leave your selling hat at home when you are networking and just be who you are.

What Is The Truth About Making Money In Network Marketing? (Part 1 of 3)

2008-02-01T01:22:00.001-08:00

If you've never been involved in Network Marketing before you're probably are asking yourself this question right now. You've probably heard of the "fabricated stories" of people losing everything they own in a Network Marketing business. Or worse, someone spent the time and money to build up a huge monthly income to only have the company they represent go out of business. So, you're probably skeptical about the Network Marketing industry in general and want more information before you decide to step out and join an opportunity.

If you're currently in a Network Marketing business (or you were once before) and you're not making a profit, you're probably saying "When will I ever make money in Network Marketing?" Or, if you've been jumping from program to program looking for the "winner" you need this article.

Early on in my Network Marketing career I asked myself these same questions. And believe me, so did my wife! So, let me answer the question for you: "Yes, you can make money in Network Marketing!"

There isn't a week that goes by that I don't get a phone call from a new prospect that asks me "What Is The Truth About Making Money In Network Marketing?" I get asked this question all the time. Especially from the frustrated network marketer who just spent their last dime on a mailing or an advertisement that went very bad. My goal is that after reading this article, you will have an better answer to this question. My hope is that your answer is "YES, I really can make money in Network Marketing?"

I know you can make money in Network Marketing because I am living proof. I now make more money in a month than I used to in a year. For the first time in my life, I don't have to worry about paying my bills. In fact, I've paid off all of my bills! Now, when I buy something, I use the universal payment method-CASH! It's nice. I feel blessed. But, I also have to do a weekly maintenance to not only help direct my organizations, but also to continually bring in new people.

Now am I sitting back and getting wealthy in Network Marketing? Quite frankly, YES.. I spend every morning playing with my daughter and work with my business associates in the afternoon. Late afternoon I stroll into the office and return phone calls and stay in touch with my growing downline and new prospects. Most evenings are spent communicating with my International parts of my organizations, usually via a conference call or webinar.

So, how did I get from corporate-weenie to where I am today? I used the simple techniques and principles I will outline in my e-book "How the Responsible Network Marketer can Go to Market" due out summer 2008. Now I didn't just do them once and walk-away.

My secret was consistency. I never quit. Once I found out what worked I simply looked for someone in my downline who wanted success as bad as I did and would "listen" and follow my advice.

That sounds simple, but in the first 2 years of my Network Marketing experience I couldn't find anybody who was willing to work as hard as I was. That was quite depressing at first. I was afraid I was just working myself into another "job". But, in reality, I was laying the foundation of what would be a lifetime residual income. Was it worth all the hard work and frustration? You bet. Would I do it all over again? You bet. A quote made famous by billionaire J. Paul Getty, which I firmly believe describes my definition of Network Marketing success:

"I'd rather have 1% of 100 people's efforts than 100% of mine own!"

One thing I truly believe is if you're not happy with what you're currently doing, you must change and do something you've never done before. That usually means changing not only your work habits, but also your attitude. You might be thinking, "I just want to know what technique to use so I can get rich-so stop talking about attitude and philosophy and get on with the nuts and bolts of making money".

What you must realize is that you must attract wealth by being professional and knowing what you are doing. You must also create value for your prospects or they will come and go like a revolving door. People look to join a Network Marketing opportunity to make money.

If you can't help them do that in a relatively short period of time they will quit. It's that simple. But, if you can create some kind of positive relationship or an atmosphere of real value, then they'll stick with you through the months where they spend more than they make. If you get only one message from this article I would hope that it would be this one:

"Everybody joins a Network Marketing opportunity to make money. But, they stay in because you've created a valuable relationship and you've helped them to become financially successful"

Most Network Marketers I speak with today are looking for a Network Marketing opportunity where someone does all the work and all they do is fold their arms, sit on their butt and wait to become wealthy. It doesn't work that way, so get over it!

Sure, you can make a few hundred bucks a month using this "strategy", but you're not creating any kind of relationship between you and your downline.

Network Marketing was created with people in mind. When you take people out of the equation, you loose. If simply mailing out catalogs, post-cards and brochures were all it took to make money, why would the company need you? Think about it? If that was the case, technology today would make you obsolete before you woke up in the morning.

They could do the distributions themselves and save on all the commissions they pay out to their distributors-couldn't they? This is where I see the breakdown has occurred over the last 15 years in this industry-it's become too commercialized and impersonal. Network Marketing started out face to face-or what is now known as "warm marketing".

Going to university or college, getting your degree(s) and working for either a "big" corporation or the government hasn't set many people financially free as previously promised by our parents. Many of our friends have found the climb up the corporate latter is full of trap doors and heartache.

And, for those who dare to dream big and start their own traditional business, they've experienced more heartache and hard work than they had anticipated. Neither our parents nor college can prepare someone for all that is necessary to start and maintain their own business.

Most people today half-hazzardly jump into a business of their own without even knowing what it takes to really make a profit.

- End of Part 1 -

See Part 2 of "What Is The Truth About Making Money In Network Marketing?

See You On the Beaches of the World,

Kevin "K-Man" McNabb

Tried Network Marketing before and failed? It's not your fault. Let this rookie "unknown" marketer show you how he embarrassed the "gurus" by placing over 4,120 people in his downline in 14 short months, while pocketing over half-a-million dollars. Now he has honed his SYSTEM into an idiot-proof step-by-step can't fail, never-cold-call-again recruiting machine on steroids! He'll even PAY YOU to check it out.

Effortless Networking - Motivating People to Send You Referrals

2008-02-01T01:20:00.000-08:00

I got this comment recently:

"[My biggest challenge in business networking is] Motivating my referral partners to enthusiastically refer a steady stream of clients to me every single month."

Here's the brutal and honest truth:

1. First, it takes long time to build up a "referral engine".

You have to find the right people -- those who have access to the kinds of leads you want.

Then, you have to make sure these people are willing and able to send you quality leads.

Just because they can, doesn't mean they're ready to do so. You have to demonstrate your credibility and earn their trust first.

2. Second, even after you build this "referral engine" there is no guarantee that the referrals will flow in regularly and consistently.

You really have no control over this.

Influence, yes; control, no. You can encourage people, provide incentives -- but, in the end, you have no control over what they actually do.

Think about it: how often (and how consistently) are you able to send referrals to people in your network? Why do you suppose this is?

3. Before you despair, here's the third fact.

The best and most effective referrals come from your satisfied customers.

This is something over which you have a LOT of influence. So cultivate this source of referrals.

I recently published two success stories from business owners who do just this. You can check these out under the "Success Stories" category on my "Effortless Networking" website -- see below for the link.

The good news -- I think -- is that you can use networking to accomplish other things while waiting the referrals to flow in.

In a nutshell: you can network your way to other business building opportunities, that work quicker.

Networking Made Easy - Tips for a Fast, Successful Job Search

2008-01-31T01:41:00.001-08:00

You've heard it before: at least 80% of all the jobs are found through the "hidden" job market, also known as the "unpublished" job market. These are jobs typically landed through word of mouth and referrals as opposed to the hit-or-miss method of answering ads, posting your resume to internet databases, or other techniques meant to target the remaining 20% of all jobs in the published market.

It stands to reason that if the vast majority of the jobs are to be found in this hidden market, that you should spend the majority of your job search time working to crack it. But, as you may have reasoned already, accessing the hidden job market requires that you take charge of your search, reaching out and building strategic relationships, taking proactive initiative, and making yourself visible in the right circles.

That's right. It requires that you use networking strategies. And, the thought of networking leaves many people feeling nervous and unsure. For an introverted or shy person, the idea of networking can even cause serious anxiety and fear.

What is networking exactly? If you believe, like many people, that networking is simply approaching everyone you know to ask for a job, it is no wonder you feel uncomfortable! That isn't what networking is. True networking is about building strategic relationships that involve a win-win, reciprocal exchange of information, support, and/or referrals.

When defined in this way, networking ceases to be so scary. But, it also requires that you expand your view of networking. No longer is networking just something you do every now and then when you are conducting a job search; building and strengthening your network is something that you should be working at all the time. But, if you find yourself facing an immediate job search, and your networking skills are rusty, don't fret. Here are some tips to get you moving.

1) When you first start out to build your network, it will be helpful for you to think of networking as a research project. Networking isn't just about the quantity of contacts; it is about the quality. Don't be afraid to reach out to decision-makers and people "in the know" within companies and industries of interest to you. These are quality contacts. Explain your career plans and ask them if they would spend 15 minutes talking to you and answering some questions. Most people will be flattered and say yes. When you do get in front of them, NEVER ask for a job, but DO ask for advice and referrals. These meetings are traditionally known as informational interviews.

2) As mentioned above, your networking efforts should emphasize building quality relationships. But, don't discount the importance of quantity. As much as possible, you should also expand your network. Friends, relatives, people you went to college with, contacts you have made in your community, doctors, the salespeople you come into contact with...they are all part of your network. You won't want to spend a large amount of time on this, but at least make a comprehensive list and call or send a letter reestablishing a connection, informing people of your search, and asking for advice or referrals. Again, notice that it isn't about asking for a job. Just ask for advice and referrals.

3) Prepare, prepare, prepare for your networking meetings-especially those that take the format of an informational interview. Prepare lists of questions about the company or the industry. Do your research so that you know something about the person you are meeting with and the company they work for (you might be amazed at what a simple Google search will turn up). For some people, role playing is helpful. If you are working with a career coach, this is something they may be able to help with. But a friend or close family member could also help you. There is no better antidote for nervousness than being prepared.

4) Getting out from behind your desk and making yourself visible is crucial. Join and then take part in events held by professional associations and other groups. Attend workshops and trainings in your field or industry. Attend job fairs to meet directly with hiring decision-makers. Volunteer your career-related skills in your community. If you are an expert at something, offer to speak on the topic to various groups. Job searching can be a time of anxiety and diminished self-confidence for many people, but don't hide at home behind your computer. Get out and meet people.

5) Yes, I just told you not to hide behind your computer, but the internet will play a role in any comprehensive networking campaign. Creating and maintaining a blog on your area of career expertise is an extraordinary way to build your credibility and visibility. Social networking sites like LinkedIn, MySpace, and FaceBook are increasingly popular ways to expand your network. Consider writing articles on industry and profession-related topics and then offering them as free content to webmasters (make sure the article is credited to you and includes a way to contact you). You can also participate in online discussions on topics related to your career focus. Just remember that you shouldn't "hide" behind a fake name like many people do. Your purpose is to expand your visibility and credibility, so you must use your real name.

6) Finally, show your appreciation and follow up on every single contact with a thank you note. True networking is based on cultivating and nurturing long-term relationships, so you should always be thinking of nice things you can do to show your appreciation, or ways that you could return a favor. Besides being common courtesy, your efforts in this regard will pay you back by further strengthening your relationships and helping to keep you visible.

Happy networking! Even if it feels a little uncomfortable at first, just get out there and do it. Make networking a part of your daily routine and plan to spend the majority of your job search time on networking activities (approximately three-fourths of your time is a good estimate). The more you network, the faster your current job search will come to a successful conclusion and the faster and more successful any future job searches will be.

What Is The Truth About Making Money In Network Marketing? (Part 1 of 3)

2008-01-31T01:37:00.000-08:00

Global Domains International - Combines Automation And Leverage For Your Success

2008-01-30T00:04:00.000-08:00

So what can automation do for you?

Well, for one thing - it can send emails, informing and educating the people you introduce to your business. It all happens automatically, behind the scenes.

Let me share with you just a fraction of what our powerful automated marketing system here at GDI does for you.

It finds good prospects. It invites them to learn more about your business. It follows up with more information and checks to see if they have questions. It helps you close the deal. It trains new members once they have joined your business.

Calling it "a powerful system" really doesn't do it justice. I could write 10 pages about everything this system does, but instead - I'll keep it simple. The important thing to know is that we have spent thousands of man hours, and hundreds of thousands of dollars to develop a system that does all the tedious work and allows you to leverage your time so it can be spent doing the things that raise your income.

That leaves you with a business where you can earn outstanding residual commissions simply by letting others know how they can learn about our opportunity and product, and then following up to see what they thought about it (our system even helps you do that).

Leverage: It's what makes it easier to un-tighten a bolt when you're using a big wrench with a long handle than when using a shorter one. In other words, doing less work for the same end result.

It's the same in business. It's a good thing when you can find an opportunity that will allow you to harness the power of hundreds or even thousands of people working towards YOUR SUCCESS, especially when there's a generous compensation plan involved.

If you had the choice of either working 6 hours per day, 5 days per week, OR working 10 hours a day, 7 days per week - and you would earn the same amount of money - which would you choose?

If you're going to start a home business, make sure it's something that allows you to leverage your time and energy. One of the best things is that once you have people working on your team, they are helping to earn you money.

You can go on vacation for two weeks, and when you return you'll likely be earning more every month than when you left.

Who doesn't want to be paid MORE MONEY for less work? (Hint: there aren't many people).

Evaluate any business you're considering, and make sure it's offering you the ability to leverage your time. Plus give you an automated system working for you so all you need to do is bring prospects to your website and the system does the rest.

What I Learned From The Novice Networker - 5 Key Traits

2008-01-30T00:02:00.000-08:00

More and more I've been facilitating progressive networking events where participants switch tables three times over the course of the evening to interact with three different groups of people.

It's one of my favorite events to lead, and attendees enjoy them as well because they really maximize the number of connections they can make in a very short amount of time and know exactly what to do next to follow up. And when the events are done well - and I always strive to go the extra mile - people also form deeper connections. Both breadth and depth in networking.

A few years ago, I led a particular event for the National Association of Women Business Owners that still sticks it out in my mind today. And it's all because of the novice networker who came off like a pro.

I met her during the second round of the event. She sat at my table along with several networking veterans I knew, and some I didn't. No one could tell by looking at her that she was completely new to networking. And had she not told us herself, we would never have guessed.

This was the first networking event she had ever attended, yet she handled herself beautifully and was an instant hit. Why? She did a number of things that sometimes even experienced networkers forget (or don't know) to do to make a lasting, positive impression.

If you're just getting started with networking or find yourself struggling with it, you'd be wise to take some of these lessons to heart:

• She admitted she was nervous. Just came right out and told the whole table. While this may seem like a risky move on the surface, in fact, she endeared herself to us immediately. She didn't quite know what she was supposed to do, and by saying so in an honest and heartfelt way, we all wanted to help her.

• She was friendly and enthusiastic. A smile goes a long way. No one wants to network with a sourpuss. You need to be approachable and show that you're open to learning and listening if you want to attract great people into your network.

• She showed a strong work ethic. During the group interaction she shared that she was working full-time at a bank, going to school for her degree and also working part-time in the music industry. Definitely no slouch. We were all impressed with her and felt that although she was young and didn't have a lot of experience, she could get any job done through hard work.

• She came prepared. Though the bank didn't give her her own business cards, she brought a stack with her boss's name and wrote her name and cell phone number on the back. A few people at the breakfast actually ran out of business cards. A rookie mistake that I've seen many veterans make, but that this newbie did not.

• She thanked me afterwards. I'm a sucker for politeness, what can I say? I always feel that it's a nice touch to thank the organizers of an event especially, and, to a lesser extent, the speakers. In addition to being a considerate gesture, it's an easy (and quick!) opportunity to get face time with some of the most influential people in the room. And since so few people do it, you'll be remembered.

While I've come to specialize in teaching networking from the ground up, giving networkers a progression of steps and tools to get motivated and get going, what I learned that day was networking from the inside out - how enthusiasm, authenticity and 'fessing up to your fears can be just as important to a successful start.

Broadband - What Affects Your Speed?

2008-01-29T01:01:00.000-08:00

Broadband providers have been under scrutiny recently, as it has come to light that broadband speeds advertised by ISP's (Internet Service Providers) are not matching actual broadband speeds that customers receive.

It's proving to be a frustrating time for many customers. Many have been promised speeds of up to 8 Meg, but they are finding themselves with connection speeds, that in some cases are only marginally better than dial-up.

So, what are the contributing factors that affect broadband speeds? There are in fact numerous conditions that exist that can hamper your connection, and unfortunately there are no quick fix solutions to any of the problems.

Conditions that can cause poor internet speeds include:

The distance from the exchange

This is probably the single biggest contributing factor to broadband speeds. The closer you are to the telephone exchange the better your chances are of getting faster internet speeds. Only those living close to an exchange will be able to get anywhere near the 8meg download speeds promised by many of the providers.

The number of computers on a network

If have a number of computers in your household hooked up to the same router, then this will affect your broadband speeds as each computer will be sharing the one connection.

Quality of cables

Your ISP should provide you with high capacity modem cables as part of their package. But, if they haven't then it's wise to check that the cabling you are using is up to the job intended. Also, poor quality internal telephone cabling can affect the quality of your service.

Weather Conditions

Severe weather conditions can cause problems with the ADSL signal which in turn affects internet speeds.

Viruses

Always use good virus protection software. A computer that is poorly protected from viruses and spyware will inevitably begin to lose performance. Virus programs running in the background hog your bandwidth.

Time of day

The peak times when people surf the internet are between 6pm - 11pm. During these peak times it's common to experience slower internet speeds.

So What Is A Wireless Bridge Anyway?

2008-01-29T00:10:00.000-08:00

So what is a wireless bridge anyway?
In simple terms a wireless bridge is a device that allows two or more complete networks of users to transparently communicate to one another over long distances without wires. These networks can be in the same building but are normally in either adjacent buildings or with the proper antennas and line of sight bridges can even connect networks up to 30 miles apart. Wireless bridges connect to the wired network through the Ethernet port and replicate that data to a remote network bridge or access point via 802.11a/b/g wireless (Wi-Fi) protocol.

Point to Point (ptp) Bridging:
A point to point topology is the simplest to configure and connects two networks in two separate locations, normally a remote building or warehouse, via one wireless bridge in each location.

Point to Multi-point (point to multipoint, ptmp) bridging:
A point to Multipoint topology wirelessly connects multiple locations together allowing them to share the same network resources. The bridge at the main, central, location is called the root bridge or base station bridge and all data passing between the wireless bridge clients must pass through the root bridge first. These point-to-multipoint networks are used in wireless internet service providers (WISP), large corporate campuses, distribution facilities, school districts, public safety applications and many others...

What do I need to build a Point to Point Bridge Link?

Line of sight between the two locations. You may need to install a pole or tower on your roof top in order to achieve this. A site survey is recommended before installation. Select a wireless bridge: Here are some things to consider when selecting a wireless bridge.

Distance: Distance will determine what gain antenna will be required and if you need an external antenna or if an integrated antenna will be sufficient.

Wireless protocol: Do you want to use a bridge base on 802.11 standards so that you have interoperability with other bridge manufacturers or would you like something with a protocol proprietary to a particular vendor? There are some added security benefits when using a proprietary over a standard protocol.

Frequency: Do you want to use a licensed or unlicensed (2.4, 5-5.8 GHz) band?
Indoor or Outdoor: Indoor wireless bridges are less expensive but you will have to buy quite a bit of LMR-400 cable to connect to the outdoor antenna. This adds a great deal of signal loss and in the end you will need a higher gain antenna to compensate. An outdoor bridge can be placed right next to the antenna and therefore cuts down on the amount of cable you need to buy as well as the amount of signal loss.

Select a wireless antenna: If the bridge you selected does not already have an integrated antenna you will need to choose one now. For point to point links we suggest a directional panel, grid or solid parabolic dish antennas.

Peripherals: You will need to select the appropriate lightning arrestors and RF antenna cables to get you connected and protected.

Double it: Now double the amount of hardware you selected so that you have the identical setup on both sides.

Installation:
Finally, select a professional installer in your area to run the appropriate cables, install any required poles or towers, align the antennas and configure the radios. If you have any questions about this let us know and we will assist you in finding a quality installer. If you want to try it out yourself go for it but DON'T FORGET to bench test the bridges before actually installing them in the field.

Business Success And The Art Of Networking

2008-01-18T04:30:00.000-08:00

Networking is about creating a support system for your business. It can help you raise money attract employees or partners and even offer a fresh perspective.

Networking is a non- starter if you start with the end in mind. This is even true when one thinks of networking in the business context. Business networking is not merely about exchanging cards and few laughs over dinner, its about looking for ways to help each other grow symbiotically. It is a process which helps to build relationships and develop the support system for the entrepreneur and his business.

Any successful entrepreneur will tell you that a network of contacts can add value only if you know how to add value to each one of them. If you want to know the secret to building the network which will help you, you have to learn to understand other peoples problems and challenges first. You have to be ready to give first and demand later.

The art of networking is not an easy one. Most young entrepreneurs find that it is easier to build upon an idea than to develop a network of contacts. The best bet for young entrepreneurs is to participate in forums that are provided by business networking professionals like Business Networking International (BNI), The Indus Entrepreneurs, and even online networking sites like Ryze and LinkedIn. These have regular mixer meets- where new entrepreneurs have an opportunity to interact with more experienced entrepreneurs and take the concept of organised networking very seriously.

Such forums result in a place where business supply and demand have a command ground. For eg: people who require funds can connect with people who want to invest funds, and there is always the possibility of finding a new business.

It is an opportunity for new entrants to gain an insight into the minds of biggest and the best in business. Its not just a platform to help entrepreneurs interact but also a responsibility to educate and inspire them. Entrepreneurs have to be realistic about what they can get from networking opportunities.

Essentials of Networking:

1. Look at building relationships, not a database.

2. Networking events are not always buyer- seller meets.

3. Aviod western rules for networking. India and Indians have a different approach.

4. Learn to give, seek the giver's gain.

5. Listen and understand others business first.

6. Look at ways of growing your network through giving

7. Learn to distinguish between networking and fund raising events.

8. Networking events should be informal.

9. Follow up with people or suggestion for people you meet at an event.

10. Do not just collect visiting cards, get to know people.

Social Networking - Generating Traffic Through Social Networking

2008-01-18T04:29:00.000-08:00

There are some tremendous advantages for all online businesses when it comes to social networking websites. First and foremost of course is the fact that you can get free advertising for your business. Every business owner knows that it can often mean a lot of advertising expense and most often all this expense is misdirected because the advertising is not always targeted to the right people. Though social networking is not the solution to this problem it can help in making things easier. Not only does social networking work for individual business to consumer relationships but it can also be very effective in business to business communication.

Similar to other forms of internet communication the social networking websites work by you placing your link in the signature of your posts and also your emails. Every time you communicate through email or you post on the social networking website you are leaving behind a small footprint of your website on the Internet. Though this may not sound like much it will eventually lead to a lot of traffic as your link propagates. Even if the emails are going to other websites asking them for information the mere inclusion of your business links is enough to leave a trail wide enough to generate more traffic.

Then there are websites that offer free advertising where you can place your advertisement on their website in exchange for something very trivial, usually a link back to them from your website. This sort of social networking will generate leads that you were completely unaware of. And it works for free.

Do you want to learn more about how I do it? I have just completed my brand new guide to article marketing success, ‘Your Article Writing and Promotion Guide‘

Small Business Networking: Overcoming More Client Objections

2008-01-11T04:06:00.000-08:00

In dealing with apathy toward small business networking, discontinued technical support is another powerful counterforce, especially when you’re talking about vertical, industry-specific software, such as niche applications designed for accountants, attorneys, physicians, realtors, auto body shops and restaurants.

Providing Support

After a certain point, the independent software vendor (ISV) selling vertical, industry-specific software draws a line in the sand and stops providing technical support, annual updates, and patches for older versions of their product. So, if your client is an accounting firm that needs updated tax tables, your client is forced to upgrade the tax software, which often, in turn, forces an upgrade of the server.

This results in a call to your firm to upgrade their server (and several related highly lucrative product sales and service opportunities for your small business networking firm), all as a result of the "domino effect" from an ISV calling the shots.

Let Them Know What Their Competition Is Doing

In addition to fears of unreliable systems and vendor-mandated upgrades, you can also overcome apathy toward small business networking by discussing your prospect’s or client’s competition (without naming names, of course).

If you work with many small businesses in the same industry, and you’re seeing a software or more general technology trend that drastically alters the competitive landscape in your prospect’s or client’s industry, by all means call this to your prospect’s or client’s attention.

Copyright MMI-MMVI, Small Business Computer Consulting .com. All Worldwide Rights Reserved. {Attention Publishers: Live hyperlink in author resource box required for copyright compliance}

Best Social Networking - 4 First Steps to Social Networking

2008-01-11T04:05:00.000-08:00

Social networking sites are increasingly becoming more and more popular online. They connect people from all over the world who share the same interests and beliefs. As social networking sites succeed in putting millions of people in their database, they have slowly emerged as one of the best marketing avenues where online businessmen can promote their products and their services. Here are the 4 first steps you need to take if you'd like to use social networking sites as a marketing avenue:

1. Pick the best social networking site for your business. MySpace is extremely popular in the United States and United Kingdom, while friendster seems to dominate the Asian region. Depending on the location of your target market, you can pick the one that is frequented by your potential clients. If you are offering your products and services globally, you can choose to join as many social networking sites as you can.

2. Blog about your company. Most social networking sites offers free blogging services that you can definitely take advantage of. Through this blogs, you can promote your products and services through strong recommendation and unbiased reviews. You can also use researches, testimonials, statistics, and studies to further strengthen your claims.

3. Make an attractive profile. Everybody would love to see a profile that is full of amazing graphics, photos, videos, and audio streaming. Take advantage of this to entice your potential clients to check your profile and who knows? They might eventually network with you.

4. Befriend your potential clients. Search the social networking sites and look for members who are most likely to become your client. Invite these people to network with you and exert all effort to establish personal relationship with them. Once you have gained their trust, you can easily pitch in your products and services.

Do you want to learn more about how I do it? I have just completed my brand new guide to article marketing success, 'Your Article Writing and Promotion Guide'

Networking Your Way To Greater Success

2008-01-02T04:49:00.000-08:00

Networking is the ability to know people, who know people, who know people, who know people who can help you succeed. Networking is your personal and professional success tool. But there's a catch - networking is as much about giving as it is about receiving.

True and lasting success comes from helping as many people as possible achieve their goals. It's based on what is called the Law of Reciprocity. The more people you help succeed, the more you succeed.

Networking is much more about giving than it is about receiving. Many people join a networking group with the attitude, "What can I get out of this relationship." A true networker asks, "How many ways can I help the other person achieve her/his goals?"

The Law of Reciprocity states that the more you give, the more you get. Give of yourself and time wisely. Give wisely, but not selfishly. Give of time, intelligence and experience without expecting something in return. The giver will end up the winner.

With that said - Start your networking with friends, family and associates. Ask yourself, "Do my friends, relatives and social contacts really know what I do for a living or what my goals are?"

Prepare a one-minute infomercial about yourself, your career and how your network can help you succeed. When you meet someone new, you'll have a minute infomercial ready to help get your point across effectively. If you can't condense what you do into a one-minute infomercial, you may not be clear about what you want or how your network can help.

Sit down right now, and make a list of twenty people who can help you go forward with living your life's mission. If they can't help you directly, they may know someone who can.

Be sure to keep your network posted about all your career moves and changes. When your goals change, professionally and personally, let your network know.

Remember too, that you are a part of network too. That's a responsibility that shouldn't be taken lightly. Actively help make contacts, referrals, and connections for your network. Not only will you feel personally satisfied, but also you're building a foundation of mutual respect, benefit and support.

Financial Success or Environmental Mission? Now You Can Have Both

2008-01-02T04:48:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wished you could create a financially secure future doing something that helps the environment? Usually we have to choose between what we do for money and what we do to support the environment. Now, at least one opportunity provides both.

Imagine having a service you can offer over the internet, from the comfort of your home, that people have been waiting for at least 30 years. Imagine your prospects forwarding your marketing materials to people they know because they feel good about referring your service and are motivated to do so by a bigger mission.

It may sound like a dream opportunity, but wait...it gets better.

Now you can offer people solar power for their home. They can pay less for clean, renewable electricity from the sun than they pay now for dirty electricity from nuclear and coal plants. Who wouldn't want to do that?

With global warming being given top priority and all the talk of building more nuclear and coal plants, people are looking for a better solution. Now you can offer them a solution that supports the environment and saves them money.

As an Ecopreneur (ecological entrepreneur) you get paid for educating people about solar power for their home. In fact, you can get paid three ways.

You can earn a substantial installation and retention bonus when their solar power system is installed and at their first anniversary for providing great customer service (from the comfort of your home).

You receive 5% of your customers' monthly electricity bill every month for the life of their contract. If you ever wanted a commodity your customers would continue buying every month, year after year, this is it.

The third way you can get paid is by supporting a team of other Ecopreneurs doing the same thing. When you invite, train, and support other Ecopreneurs to make the same offer and build their team, you receive a percentage of your team's sales including a 50% matching bonus on those you personally invite and 25% matching bonus on those they invite.

Just when you thought it couldn't get any better, it does. There's no cost or obligation to participate as an Ecopreneur. That's right...no start up fees, no annual fees, no quotas, no website fees, and no purchase required. You don't even have to be a customer yourself. The company even provides professional marketing materials free to download and create yourself.

Okay, I know you've probably been waiting for the "other shoe to drop." Well, here it is. This opportunity is so ground floor that, as of this writing in December 2007, we are still in the pre-launch phase of our development. We are scheduled to officially launch in the Spring and we already have over 25,000 customers.

Getting involved while this solar wave is still just beginning to swell will position you to ride this enormous wave of grateful customers all the way to the bank, the beach, and beyond.

Some may choose to wait and see how we do. I personally am thrilled to be part of such an enormous grassroots movement to upgrade America to solar power.

I can't imagine being better positioned for what will prove to be a service everyone will have. Remember not so many years ago no one had cell phones and now it's hard to imagine life without them. Going back a bit further, when the refrigerator was introduced, everyone was still buying ice for their icebox and now it's hard to imagine life without a refrigerator. The same will be true for solar power and we're positioned to provide it for the masses.

Mission '08 - Are You Attracting Leaders Or Just A Lead?

2007-12-19T22:51:00.000-08:00

Whether it's your first week with CarbonCopyPro or the day you make the decision to join us, your sponsor and leaders have made an enormous commitment to you. New tools, websites, lead systems and back office training are second to none. 20 conference calls weekly. The MMG and LST teams are visionaries. We are shaking the very foundation of commissions for serious entrepreneurs which will have a massive effect on creating millionaires.

The great mind of Paul Zane Pilzer fully predicts 10 million new millionaires in the next decade. Likely, enlightened by this news, word has spread spread fast. Over 500,000 internet searches on home business and networking happen before Noon daily. My last report showed WMI's growth since partnering with CCPro is somewhere North of 300%. So there is no shortage of leads or individuals searching.

A fact which explodes me to expand this critical post you're reading now.

Put your mind at Day One. After you're all set up, and ready for leads, I get the same flood of the exactly the same calls and emails - on the same topic. 'I just need leads, cheap and fast!' 97% of networkers struggle and give up for reasons we know to be self evident. The do not know their target. The difference between genius and insanity is results. Let's solve this once together right now permanently so you can't fail.

From now on, think and recruit like a CEO.

Ever notice that CEO's and major leaders always drag an entire team with them? Perhaps politics is a better example of group leadership movements but in terms of being profitable or doing 'real work' we'll stick to CEO's.

Here's the secret, the big picture, the "aha". Your primary target is other networking leaders. You are on a quest day and night to form bonds with CEO's and VP's with sphere of influence under them already. Shape every peptide in your body to see the "one offs" or single sales to individuals as secondary.

Headline: Add 20 new reps weekly. Lock in higher group residuals. Sponsor entire teams.

OR

Headline: Reach your $250k income dreams. Full turnkey home business system.

Which ad would be attract a leader or 'just a lead' for the same advertising dollar?

Sure, for starters you'll buy some leads and recruit Joe or Sue that wants money, time and freedom. Who doesn't want to be a millionaire? Millions seeking and few make it by not making a slight but critical shift. Your income is solely the result of your value to others - so why not buy in bulk and be valuable to other leaders? It takes the same effort to strike conversation with a giant leader from another group as it does just one person.

That's the only true path to making it happen in months or the slow path of burning up energy and money on hunting rabbits instead of elephants. CEO's hunt elephants, hire Alpha dogs, and strategize on casting one net for entire schools of fish.

Networking Opportunities - Make an Entrance and Leave with Recognition

2007-12-19T22:50:00.000-08:00

You've probably been to a party or two this winter with no success in the networking field. Most of us have. It's not always easy to get into the popular circles and negate the crowds at parties for attention and recognition, but there are a few solid tips that you might want to have in your repertoire before you enter the realm of networking. Establishing connections is important for your business.

Face to Face Interaction Required

No matter how dynamic your digital influence may be, you're definitely leaving money on the table if you have no personal identity. How many people do you see in the average week? Winter season offers magnanimous opportunities to be seen and get recognition for your accomplishments, but you'll have to get out there and squeeze the field.

Know the Territory Intimately

Regardless of where you're going for the party, you should know the territory. Find out who will be there ahead of time and be prepared with a few details of recognition before you arrive. Knowing something about the primary players at a party will give you the edge. When you ask about Mayor Heath's husband who slipped on the ice three weeks ago, she'll remember your name and that you inquired.

Identify Common Factors

What do you have in common with other guests? As you enter, if you've not noticed before, you might notice the vehicles in the parking lot. Are there a lot of pickup trucks and you drive an F-350 Duelly? You might recognize some kindred spirits inside. Smile and wave at those you know, and speak to them with recognition. Use names if you know them. (Be sure not to call someone by the wrong name.)

Read the Local Society Sheets

Keep up with local action, know the popular folks about town, and remember just who's been on vacation lately. Those details will carry you through a night of too many white wines and sarsaparillas. But more than getting you through, they will bring you recognition and identity. Your friends will remember that you remembered them.

Introduce Yourself to Strangers

Any loners standing off to the side, take a moment and befriend them. Introduce yourself and take a moment to get to know them. Nobody wants to be alone and by taking a moment to introduce yourself, you'll be remembered by that one person. You never know when that one person may mean success to your business.

Small Talk and a Smile

When you smile, the light opens up and you accept friends. No matter what you're talking about, smile. Don't introduce big issues, just get to know your new friends and let them know you'll remember them. Say their name frequently and remember details by repeating them back to the person you're talking to. This is a great time to exchange cards.

Holiday Networking - Ten Tips to Create New Relationships and Shine at Any Event

2007-12-18T00:10:00.000-08:00

Holidays are a great time to schmooze and network - just remember the difference! Schmoozing is all about mingling with people you know, like colleagues and friends. Networking is meeting new people to broaden your circle of contacts, which can come in handy when you're looking for a new job or changing careers.

I like to look at networking like this: It's about finding out what someone else needs, then seeing if you can help the person fill that need. This way, you never "use" your network. Instead, you build healthy relationships based on helping to meet each other's needs.

Does networking make you uncomfortable because you're stretching outside your comfort zone and striking up conversations with strangers? Just keep in mind that it's all about building relationships. If you feel shy or are afraid you'll say or do the wrong thing, or worse, bore the person you're engaging in conversation, just follow my top tips.

1. Dress the part - Are you attending a formal event? Is it business casual? If you're a woman, you can never go wrong with a smart, white shirt and black slacks. Men, you'll look dashing in a sports jacket and tie. Add a sprinkle of individuality to your look. It can be a conversation starter by attracting someone to approach you.

2. Add a splash of color - If you're shy or uncomfortable, try wearing a dash of color to brighten your mood and exude confidence. Women, add a scarf or brooch. Men, choose a brightly colored tie.

3. Be a curious cat - Think about questions you can ask to get to know other people. Some ideas: What do you do? What business are you in? What's big in your plans for the new year? Stay away from topics on religion or politics unless you want to be known as someone who is bold and pretentious, or if you relish a good-natured debate.

4. Volunteer - Lend a helping hand. It can be a wonderful icebreaker to meet new folks.

5. Look for the little things - Watch for subtle types of communication. If someone smiles at you, smile back. If you bump into someone, start a conversation. Look for something you have in common to start a conversation on the right foot.

A party wouldn't be the same if there weren't some bloopers for which to watch out. Here are my top five suggestions:

1. Don't talk about yourself all night - Remember, conversations are never monologues. Make sure you give the other person plenty of opportunities to share comments, tell stories, and carry their 50% of the conversation.

2. Don't be an infomercial - Bring the best part of who you are to the party. Be genuine, be yourself. Never brag or use the networking event as an informal job interview.

3. Don't look removed - Crossed arms, a worried frown, or sitting in a corner are not magnets. It's best to keep your body language open. Try smiling and looking friendly. If you look approachable, chances are you'll meet new people.

4. Don't assume people want your card - If people want your business card, they'll ask for it.

5. Don't overdo it - Know when the conversation is nearing the end, and it's time to move on. Mingle and circulate. Don't talk with the same person all night. If you've really hit it off, schedule a time to get together and deepen your friendship.

Building Alliances Leads to Business Success

2007-12-18T00:07:00.000-08:00

The best way to achieve success in a competitive market is to conduct business with those that know you and trust you. Success is based on building meaningful relationships with clients that love what you do and desire to help blow your horn. The best concepts are networking and marketing, these are the quickest paths for business success.

Cold calling, direct mail and other traditional selling methods do little to build relationships- they simply anger and frustrate. With what frequency do you take cold calls? And when was the last time you spoke with a million dollar insurance agent that cold calls?

Today's selling professional requires techniques that help to accentuate and differentiate from others. In a business culture where social networks proliferate the only true network is that built between a client and business professional. Clients enjoy the candor and the knowledge that is shared from a vendor. To this end, there are several methods that assist selling professionals.

Networking

Truly the best selling professionals constantly network. Selling professionals by nature require constant engagement with others to comprehend business trends and meet new opportunities. For over 27 years I attend at least one to two networking events per month and I can measure these to business. Admittedly, there exist a plethora of networking associations and organizations, choose those close to your location and aligned with your business. Review your local paper for functions that interest you and attend as a guest, but go. If do not attend your competitors are. Others cannot know your business with just a shingle hanging in the breeze.

Referrals

Proper networking and selling etiquette involves referral acquisition. Similar to gaining closure agreement many professionals abhor asking for the order! Business is driven by the ability to ask for new business. If clients are happy with your work they will willingly provide others that can need to receive your value. The best way to seek referrals is when you are first engaged with the client and they are at that emotional high. More importantly you want to ask when you are in the account, since this is the best time to be top of mind. Post sale is not an alternative simply put, out of sight out of mind.

Another imperative item to remember is that there is strength in numbers, the more you obtain the fuller the pipeline. There is a story of an insurance professional that would visit clients and not leave without three new referrals. Even if the client provided one or two, the agent would not leave until he received three or more. Needless to say, the agent retired an extremely wealthy individual.

Follows up on referrals

It might seem pragmatic, yet there is much evidence to illustrate that a myriad of professionals that obtain do not follow up. Friends, family and clients typically provide these golden nuggets, so it is vital that one follows up. Call immediately after you receive a contract or verbal conceptual agreement. Ensure you mention the person that referred you and mention their enthusiasm for working with you.

Positive attitude

Good networking professionals have a positive attitude. They do not carry baggage with them nor do they illustrate negative feelings should things go awry. There is the story of a business professional that greeted all with "I am awesome!" Coincidentally he did this even through attempting to fight a debilitating disease. People enjoy doing business with positive people.

Enthusiastic/Energy

Remember the donkey from Winnie the Pooh- Eye Or? This poor donkey is about as unhappy as anything I know. Sometimes listening to him is depressing enough. This is true with human relationships. Individuals desire to be around warm, energized people. Many can feel the excitement of those around them. If you want to be a memorable networker, review your image, ensure you are excited about the event, the people and your business. People feed off positive energy, enthusiasm is fuel for networking, alliances and differentiation.

Trustworthy

Candor is the most imperative issue in today's business environment. Ironically, an important business trait constantly discussed is ethics. Appalling as it seems, there are numerous daily instances of those attempting to buck trends and gain momentum while not following rules. Consumers enjoy conducting business with trusting relationships.

Good listening skills

Remember a time when you were with someone either at a cocktail party or other event, and the person spoke and never came up for air? Bothered you didn't it? Clients are engaged with professionals that can provide value by understanding needs and listening. Clients clamor for solutions not prescriptions and the best people understand the art of listening. Use techniques such as open and closed questions and pausing to truly understand how to assist.

Enjoys helping

It is better to give then to receive. Those that want to gain will give first. Similar to tithing, professionals must provide content to gain something. Think of tips, techniques and referrals that you too can provide. This technique is a great opener for building relationships since others will identify with your willingness to provide helpful information.

6 Tips To Better Networking - Things Anyone Can Apply Today

2007-12-13T23:04:00.000-08:00

The other morning I was networking with a kind woman who asked me what the most important things were in networking. As I wrote the email back to her later, I thought I'd make some suggestions on how to best network in general to the bulletin as well - who knows whom it may help?

(1) Remember to be yourself; speak with people like they are people and not sales subjects. You are simply meeting people, learning who they are, what they do, and then looking for ways in which you may be able to "broker synergy" - introducing them to someone who can help them, buy from them, or otherwise.

(2) It isn't about YOU. If you treat networking as a personal showcase, and talk only about you - you'll be mightily unpopular with your "network." If, on the other hand, you be sure to split time with those you meet - you can BOTH effect great results.

(3) Networking takes time and faith - no, I'm not talking religious faith - but more belief that it will work - and along with that patience and time. Rome wasn't built in a day - neither will be your network. Conservatively expect 12 months to see real results. You may be able to see something in 6-9 months if you try hard to meet and particularly to help people.

(4) Never stop networking - keeps eyes and ears open for how you can assist and help others at all times. While on vacation, floating down the river, I met someone I was able to refer a great place to stay to, in the next town they were headed to. You just never know....

(5) Never judge a book by it's cover - you never know (a) who people are and (b) who they may know. A quick anecdote - when I worked for AT&T a gentleman walked into our small business center and was dressed in overalls badly stained. The two women I worked with asked me to handle him as they figured he was a bad prospect by his appearance. Turned out he owned a huge local company with needs for over 200k in phone systems, and that he'd had to work in the one warehouse that day, to cover for a shift manager who was injured. In addition, Ronnie is still someone I network with almost 20 years later.

and

(6) Networking brings out a real chance to better yourself and increase your value to friends, family and others, as you help everyone get ahead and meet each other. It is also a chance to form superb friendships - with people you otherwise never ever would have met.

Cheers and happy networking!

5 Simple, Easy Ways to Stay In Touch With Clients, Contacts, and Prospects

2007-12-13T23:03:00.000-08:00

You've simply got to stay in touch with your network. The old adage, "Out of sight, out of mind," is grounded in real truth.

With time being in such short supply and your network continually growing, how can you stay in touch efficiently and effectively?

Here are 5 tips for staying in touch and remaining top-of-mind with your entire network:

1. Send Out Cards (www.sendoutcards.com).

Create personalized hard-copy greeting cards through an on-line service that uses real stamps and are mailed through the U.S. Mail. They are inexpensive and look just as good as a real handwritten greeting card. You can even scan in your own handwritten signature, and it's almost as fast as writing an e-mail.

Tip: Since so many holiday cards go through the U.S. Mail in December, why not consider sending a more outstanding "Kick Start The New Year" card campaign in January?

2. Send out a personal newsletter once a month.

Give your clients and contacts tips and free information. This newsletter doesn't have to be lengthy - just meaningful and relevant to your network. Tell your contacts and clients where you will be speaking, what articles you've written, and new information for their business.

Constant Contact (www.constantcontact.com) has a very easy, inexpensive service, and pre-designed templates that allow you to use your firm's logo, etc.

3. Use Google Alerts.

Set up a Google Alert system so that you know when your clients and contacts are showing up on the web. Go to www.google.com/alerts and sign up for various alerts that pertain to your network. When you see them appear on the web, send them a quick e-mail acknowledging you've noticed the news. They will appreciate your awareness and remember your attentiveness.

4. The 6-month Outreach Program.

Run down your contact base every six months. Check in by phone or e-mail with folks you are curious about or who you want to let know you are thinking about them. Isn't it worth just one hour every six months to be top-of-mind with your key contacts? You never know what new projects and needs have cropped up for them.

Business Networking Sites - Dying or Booming?

2007-11-26T05:12:00.000-08:00

Business networking sites are alive and well and growing like crazy. What the article termed as "2nd and 3rd level business people" comprise the vast majority of the people doing business, entrepreneurs - and they are the one's that need this service the most. The Business Networking Sites that are particularly successful concentrate more and more on niche markets, for example there is a site for car fanatics called BOOMPA and the on-line film community has SPOUT, to name but two.

Forbes magazine predicted that 97 million people worldwide will start a home business within the next three years. Networking sites can spread the word about your business globally, it is like a search engine for the home marketer & entrepreneur looking to grow his market and contacts. Your little black contact book has gone on-line.

My advice will be to do your homework before you join a site - if you want only to socialize on-line then go for a social network. If you are into business in a niche market, see if there is one, or start one. If you are interested in meeting business people who work from home such as Internet marketers, small business owners, and freelancers / entrepreneurs, then look for the business site that fits your requirements.

Research has shown that people are prepared to pay for membership to a networking site if they find value in it. For the small business person and home marketer / entrepreneur you are going to need cost effective advertising and networking - you can find both in 1 place. You may even find staff, partners or capital as well as a market for your product on the right site.

So what should you look for in a business networking site?

· Is this site growing, not necessarily the biggest now, but growth equals life.

· How is the site managed and is there quality client service.

· What systems are they using, out of date or keeping up with the ever changing times.

· Will you meet the people you WANT to meet for your type of business.

· Is information and training available free of charge.

· What security does the site offer against sexual predators, scamming and protecting your information.

· What tools are available if you should need them:

Inter-community e-mail

Classified ads

Forums and blogs

Rebate shopping on-line

A matching service putting you in contact with like-minded people

Can you publicize business events

Video availability

What is important to one person may not be another's need. I would like a great compensation plan if I refer others as well as having some fun like contests and prizes.

In researching these sites I found one that suited me perfectly, being a work from home marketer.

The Business Networking site that I belong to launched in the USA in 2005. It is a privately owned company, and they have gone international in December of 2006.

Within a day of joining I felt at home, this is a community, and I was overwhelmed by the warmth of people from all over the world. The "double-blind" email system provides great protection and you can block anyone in the community should you wish. There is a 24/7 state of the art watchdog protecting the community from any nasty characters and pornography. I could choose if I wanted a business or social profile and by specifying my business profile I was matched with like-minded business people.

Networking - Are You an Extrovert or an Introvert and the 2 Reasons Why it Matters

2007-11-26T05:11:00.000-08:00

Much is made by people on whether they are extroverts/introverts and that certainly being on extrovert is necessary to be a successful networker. Actually, both have natural strengths and weaknesses.

The intelligent networker first understands where they are on the scale of extrovert and introvert and uses the strengths (and works on the weaknesses) to their advantage.

First myth. Introverts are uncomfortable meeting strangers. The fact is EVERYONE is uncomfortable meeting strangers. And that's ok. A major part of networking is meeting new people. We just need to understand that being an extrovert or introvert has nothing to do with it.

So what are the differences?

Two things really..

* The interaction with other people

* Personal Energy

Extroverts love to interact in groups. If you're networking and see a group of 4 or 5 people (or more) with one person "holding court", chances are you're seeing an extrovert in action. Extroverts are bigger, more expansive, the hand gestures will be more pronounced.

The problem for extroverts is that we love to talk. Extroverts can be fun, hold a group together, provide the energy, but they also will do most of the talking. You will learn about the extrovert all sorts of things, but she may not learn much about you.

So it's important for the extrovert to scale back a little. Learn to not "take over" the conversation, listen, truly listen to other people when they talk, not just wait patiently until they can talk again.

The introvert is not someone who has difficulty networking. They just have to do it a little differently. Introverts for example excel one on one. Two people talking to each other is the perfect networking environment. Introverts are more likely cede talking time than others, but he might still need to learn how to listen properly just like everyone else.

For an introvert, groups are probably not going to be a comfortable environment for you, so if there is someone in a group that you want to talk to separate them from the herd! Take them aside and create that one on one comfort zone.

The other differentiator between extro's and intro's is energy levels.

Think of a long day at work. You're tired, but you have to go to some networking event. Geesh!

The extrovert on one hand, while maybe starting out bushed, starts getting energized as the networking event progresses. Extroverts basically get energy from groups and gatherings. Extroverts can typically last the night away!

Heck, as the event draws to a close, the extrovert might even try to get a group together and head out for a beer!

Understand that the extrovert will probably crash on the way home. They no longer have the group feeding them that energy and on the car ride home, tiredness will set back in. That's ok. The extrovert just needs to watch themselves because they can crash.

The introvert on the other hand essentially loses energy at group events. And if there was a long, tough day at work, the last thing you want to do is go networking.

So it's important for an intro' to recharge first. Perhaps between work and networking, stop someplace, do a caffeine and sugar thing, maybe if alone time with a book helps you recharge, stop at Starbucks or Mickey D's and take a half hour by yourself. If you show up a little late that's fine, especially if you are now more ready to dive in to the networking event.

Also understand that you may not last the whole time. Figure out what works for you. Don't make this an excuse to leave early (or not attend at all!) but try different things that will help you be on top of your game when you do network. It would be much more productive for you to be "all there" for 2 hours of a 3 hour event, then physically there, but mentally in la-la land for the entire event.

So understand where you sit on the extrovert/introvert scale and what are your strength's and weaknesses when networking. Adjust your schedule or behavior to maximize your networking to make it more successful and enjoyable for you.

Powerful Networking in Three Easy Steps

2007-11-15T23:53:00.001-08:00

Networking is such an invaluable tool for the small business owner...if the networker knows how to do it well. But learning this vital skill seems to be the most overlooked step in the process. Most people wouldn't consider starting a small business if they didn't know how to do the thing that their business offers...but they venture blithely forward with no idea how to sell the thing their business offers. Here are a few basic tips to help things run more smoothly.

1.) Be likeable. If you aren't likeable, fake it. If you can't fake it, hire someone who can...they'll be well-worth the money.

2.) Be knowledgeable. It goes without saying (I hope) that you keep abreast of current trends in your industry, but when networking it's incredibly useful to know a little about a lot. Sports, politics, local theater, celebrity gossip, cars...anything that the person you're talking to might find interesting is a networking opportunity. Provided, of course, you know enough to have a relatively informed conversation...and you're not too emotionally invested in the results. If you adamantly believe that Paris Hilton should have gotten off scott-free, and you'll cry over a dissenting viewpoint, veer away from celebrity gossip.

3.) Be flexible. Networking is not about 'closing' or 'hard-selling' - it's about creating relationships. When you're trying to build a relationship, you have to be flexible enough to do it on the other person's terms. If that means that they need to know you for six months before they even think about sending business your way, by all means prepare for that six-month slog. That is the way in which that person does business...and if you don't respect it, it's your loss.

Developing Referral Relationships

2007-11-15T23:52:00.000-08:00

Once you've received a referral, gathered information, and ranked the lead, it's time to pick up the phone. The following advice and scripts will help you at each step of the lead-conversion process.

Making first-time contact

The first call is the hardest one. Until you make first contact you really don't know the quality of the lead. It could turn out to be a huge business opportunity - or nothing at all. You have to hope for the best. The referral lead could result in years of business and an important new referral alliance, or it could go into the trash 60 seconds after you make the call. As you initiate contact with a new referral, heed the upcoming advice. Know the two objectives of your first call or visit.

The primary objective of your first contact, like the objective of any other first sales call to a new prospect, is to book an appointment. The first appointment might take the form of an exploratory session aimed at determining the wants, needs, and desires of the lead, or it might be an appointment to conduct a buyer consultation or listing presentation.

The secondary objective of your first contact is to open the door, establish trust and respect, demonstrate your knowledge, and establish your position as a reliable resource.

In your first contact, you're not trying to make a sale; you're just trying to achieve a face-to-face meeting.

Use the name of your referral source to open doors

The best way to get beyond your prospect's defenses is to share the name of your referral source. By presenting the name of your mutual associate, you establish immediate rapport and credibility. In your opening statement, include a reference to your referral source using a script such as this:

"Hello, Mr. Smith, this is Dirk Zeller with Real Estate Champions. The reason for my call is that your name came up in a conversation yesterday with Bob Jones with the Acme Delivery Company."

Then continue by using a linking statement such as:

"He said you're neighbors," or "He said you used to work together,"

Or

"He said your sons play soccer on the same team."

"Well, Bob Jones is a very valuable client. Bob knows I primarily work with referrals; he suggested I give you a call. He thought it would be worth a few minutes of our mutual time to see if we should meet."

You could also use a variation like:

"Bob was pleased with the service I provided to him and his family. He thought you'd like to evaluate how I might be able to assist you in the future."

Converting referrals into clients or referral sources

Once you've established a solid opening connection, it's time to ask probing questions that help you determine the wants, needs, desires, and expectations of the lead. Depending on your findings, the lead might result in a qualified prospect that you convert into a client, or you might determine that while the lead isn't ready to buy or sell, or to commit to an exclusive agent relationship, the person is a valuable resource to be added to your referral database.

Personal visits and calls

Leads generated through referrals come with a higher client-conversion probability than leads received from ad calls, sign calls, or any other cold sources. Due to that fact, consider investing some additional time as you launch the relationship. Instead of, or in addition to a personal call, consider stopping by to personally meet your new leads in their home. Once they attach a face and voice to your name they'll find it more difficult to reject you or select someone else to represent their interests.

If a personal visit isn't possible, aim to enhance the sense of personal connection through an increased number and frequency of calls. It takes, on average, four to six calls for you to leave a lasting impression.

Written notes, e-mail messages and mailers

Between calls and personal visits, build a bridge with personal notes and e-mail messages. Written communications will never replace the personal touch of phone calls or face-to-face visits, but in between live contact they do a great job of keeping the connection alive.

Send market updates, testimonials, letters from other satisfied clients, information on your current listed properties, and news about key awards or recognition you've received.

Beyond that, treat leads as if they're already clients by adding them to your newsletter list and to insider mailings that share news from your office.

Beware of The Itis

2007-11-15T23:51:00.000-08:00

Strange subject line don't you think?

If you do not know what the Itis is and how it can be devastating to your network marketing career then listen closely.

Let me start with a little background . . .

A few days back I was watching a TV show with my family. They were watching a show called Boondocks.

The show itself is an outgrowth of a comic strip. It's actually an adult oriented cartoon based around an African American family which highlights and pokes fun at the racial tensions here in America. Well, this particular episode was about how one of the main characters was given the opportunity to open his own soul food restaurant, called "The Itis", and what happened there after.

If you don't know what the "Itis" is, it is actually pretty funny, in fact I am laughing about the whole concept right now as I write this, it is that tired feeling you get after you eat a huge and unhealthy meal. If you've ever eaten lunch and wanted to take a nap 15 minutes after you finished eating you've fallen victim to the Itis. It stops you in your tracks and puts you to sleep. Well, in this show, that is exactly what food from this soul food restaurant did to anyone who ate it.

It stopped them in their tracks and put them straight to sleep. People were falling asleep at the table and I think one woman went into a comma. It was pretty funny to see this concept taken to that extreme, and naturally the show conluded with the restaurant being closed.

Well what does all this have to do with network marketing and your business?

Simple . . .

I see people fall victim to the Itis everyday in their network marketing efforts. Not the type of Itis I've described above, but a much more sinister and personally elusive form.

Here is how it happens . . .

They will join a new business and after 15 minutes of really hard work promoting it by sending out a few emails and not getting any response they will start to say "It is not working". Then they will buy information product after information product looking for the golden key to success and after skimming through the information and putting in a good two hour solid effort to see if IT works they say "It is not

working. Then they go off and buy an new golden ticket to freedom and income. They find a new business or they find a new info product that promises them the world and they always meet with the same results. They put their brain to sleep after gorging on a meal of

easy promises of riches and enter into a comma like state of waiting for success to find them for an undetermined amount of time. When they wake up and see that making money online or in their network marketing efforts actually takes effort they aren't having it.

They look for another meal filled with easy promises of riches to put them back into their comma like state where they can relax as they dream of the success that is just going to happen around them. When they find it they gorge. They never really think to look at themselves as they grow fat and lethargic from all this consuming. They never realize that the reason that they are not getting anywhere is because they aren't really moving, except to the next so called easiest meal.

Networking for Jobs - Who Needs Networking?

2007-11-05T01:56:00.002-08:00

Networking is one of the most important business and career development skills anyone can learn. Yet, even to a seasoned professional it can seem intimidating or positively scary some of the time.

I am sure that you will agree that the term "networking" is one of the most clichéd and misunderstood words in our vocabulary; the dictionary defines networking as "the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions." Strangely it doesn't define the rationale of networking.

If we view networking as the process of developing and maintaining quality relationships that are mutually advantageous, it won't take long to realize that networking is an important business and career development process. The continual building of relationships that can last a lifetime is what makes networking an essential part of our own development. This is why we do need to learn networking skills and keep our contacts in touch with us regularly.

Because, when we lose touch with someone, then call on them when we are in need, we create a negative networking situation and your contact no longer want s to talk to you. The person at the receiving end perceives the call as "he can't be bothered to keep in touch, till he wants something"

So, positive networking needs to become a way of life. As the old saying goes "It's not what you know but who you know." This is truer than ever in today's competitive world.

However, networking is not something that comes easily to everyone. You may be essentially a shy person, possibly feel you don't have the wherewithal, or as most of us are today, just plain busy. More than likely, you may feel you simply don't have the time to network. This is just an excuse!

Whenever you meet someone new, you have the opportunity to network and learn new things thus enriching your own existence. The truth then is: we really don't have time NOT to network.

Networking can be done any place, any time. As you learn about the other person you are networking with and how you can help them, they learn about you and how they can help you. This reciprocal effect is a direct result of you becoming interesting because you are showing interest. Help others connect to the people you know can help them, keep your promises and stay in touch.

You will frequently have opportunities to meet new people whom you can add to your list of contacts. Once you have established a connection, identify the people who can help you, stay connected, and keep your network growing. Identify the organizations and activities where people you want to know gather, get involved and become known.

Networking does not have to be difficult; in fact it can be quite fun, but bear in mind that you will need to continually work at it. Then, before you know it, you will have a strong network behind you whenever you need to call upon it.

Five Tips For Using MySpace

2007-11-05T01:56:00.001-08:00

I remember the days when AOL was pretty much the only community in town. In fact, I remember when they billed you by usage time versus a flat monthly fee.

Today, there are many networking communities available. My favorite is MySpace. I have met more people and gained more business from MySpace than from any other networking community.

I'd like to share five tips on using MySpace:

If you are there to network, then make it easy for folks to network with you. Often I find folks who say I need their last name or email address to friend request them. Since they are currently a stranger, I don't have that information. Their profile tells me they want to meet others but their profile settings make that near impossible. Choose settings that allow others to communicate with you and friend request you.

Share information. Posting ads is not sharing information. I've actually deleted those who only advertise. I want to know YOU. I want to know who you are. Networking is about knowing one another and hopefully helping each other. If all you do is advertise, I am not going to send business your way. I do not want to send those I know to folks who only pitch products and services.

Join a few groups. MySpace has thousands and thousands of groups. Do a search and find a few groups that revolve around your interests. For example, I joined a scrapbooking group. I also joined a group talking about a t.v. show I enjoy. Finally, I joined a Starbucks group as I love Starbucks. Find groups that are YOU and join a few. You'll meet others that you already share something in common with.

Use the email and comment functions. Talk to others but more importantly when folks talk to you, answer them. I still communicate with folks I met the first day I began networking on MySpace. Just as I answer personal email in a timely manner, I also try to answer MySpace mail and comments in a timely manner.

Remember your words and photos will be seen by many. I sometimes shudder when I see someone who claims to want to gain business swearing up a storm and posting very non G rated photos. This is going to turn off potential business contacts. The bulletin feature is wonderful, but when the topic is a string of profanity I never even open it. When I was working on AOL, we had a rule of "if you wouldn't say it to your grandmother, don't say it here". I really believe this applies in a networking community also.qa

Networking for Jobs - Who Needs Networking?

2007-11-02T23:50:00.000-07:00

Running Your Network is Only as Good as the People Behind It

2007-11-02T23:49:00.000-07:00

If you are going to have an internal team running your internal network, it is important that you place the right person for the right job. If George Bush was a candidate to run your network again, you definitely would want him reevaluated to ensure he is the proper candidate for the job. Maybe even replacing him with someone with a better education and coordination in order to ensure your network runs smoothly without major interruptions.

Your candidates to run your network should have experience pertaining to the devices in which you want to have your network to run under. Cisco is probably the most efficient and common choice of network equipment for networkers to operate. Cisco offers their own certifications as proof for businesses that the person has the knowledge to run Cisco devices. The Cisco CCNA is the most common entry level certification a business should look for. Nortel and Foundry also provide certifications for their products as well.

If you require a head network administrator for a large network with advanced securities and you are dealing with Cisco, a certified CCIE would suffice, although you may end up paying him over $100,000. Even someone who is certified doesn't mean your network will be smooth sailing. Experience is also an area you want to look at. I find that if you are running Cisco equipment, candidates should have at least a year of experience enter a junior position.

A networker should also be available 24 hours a day / 7 days a week comparable to a doctor. If you rely on web for money, you have to have someone in place to fix it right away. A day lost can turn into a customer loss. A 404 or 500 error screams, "We may be out of business or the internet swallowed our company". Just be sure you have the right person on call for advanced troubleshooting, meaning he's bright enough to restore your network quickly.

You may also higher a 3rd party source to handle your system support and networking support. It may not be cheaper than having your own team in place, but usually there is a mixture of all types of technical techies services your network's operability. Personally, I recommend having your own team of networkers on hand.

Online Networking - Person To Person Communications At New Levels

2007-10-30T00:24:00.000-07:00

Networking is one of the most important things you can do in your life, as you make personal friends as well as business associates with whom you can be mutually helpful. If you know the right people, you can accomplish almost anything. That's why it's important to start meeting people. There are two types of networking, and those are for personal and for business contacts. Here I will discuss the two types of networking, and how they can be used to make your life easier.

Personal networking is most apparent on sites like Myspace and Facebook. On these sites, you first add all of your friends that you have established in real life. Then, depending on how much you want to branch out, you can start adding your friends' friends, to bridge the social gaps. The systems make it easy for you to talk to multiple people at the same time, and quickly get to know them through conversation as well as the contents of their custom profiles. Most social networking sites also allow you to search or browse for complete strangers with similar interests, so that you can start to meet new people. It's definitely easier than going out and meeting random people in your day-to-day life.

Business networking is slightly more serious and formal, since almost everybody you meet will have some sort of objective that they wish to accomplish. Business networking can be compared a lot to personal networking, but it is focused on business. Many focus on the ability to maintain a personal list of contacts, and organize it well. When you're in business, it is a good idea to keep these things sorted. You can keep records of your previous interactions with people, and how much you would trust them to do well in the future.

Business networking sites allow you to create connections with people depending on your relationship to them. These can be used for many purposes, from finding jobs to finding employees. Professional networking sites like LinkedIn don't encourage, or even allow, random contact. Mutual relationships must exist previously.

If you haven't already jumped on the online networking bandwagon, then perhaps it is time to consider doing so. Personal networking is a great way to meet people with similar interests, without the hassle of tracking them down in the real world. Business networking is perfect for keeping track of contacts, as well as establishing new ones.

A Brief History of Cisco Certification Training

2007-10-25T05:28:00.000-07:00

MCSE Certification - Requirements And Courses

2007-10-24T04:17:00.000-07:00

Computer Schools In New York

2007-10-23T01:04:00.002-07:00

New York is the business and education hub of America and has a wide network of educational institutions. There are a large number of institutes offering computer courses in New York due to the increased demand for Information Technology professionals in every field.

The Briarcliffe College in Bethpage offers courses in Computer Information Systems, for Computer Applications Specialist, Networking and Computer Technology and Office Technologies. While the Briarcliffe College at Patchogue offers Computer Information Systems and Computer Applications Specialist courses. The Chubb Institute in NYC offers courses in Network Security, Graphic Design, and Computer Technician course. The DeVry University of Long Island has courses in Computer Engineering, Information Systems, Information Technology, and Networking. The ITT Technical Institutes are situated in Albany, Syracuse & Buffalo. They offer several technology-oriented programs and also online programs in Information Technology, Web Design, and Computer applications.

The Katharine Gibbs School in Melville and in New York offer courses in Computer Network Operations, Computer Technical Support, Digital Media Communications, and Computer Programming for students. The Skidmore College CCI in White Plains has courses in Oracle Database Administration, Enterprise Applications Developer, PC & Networking Support, PC & Networking Administration, PC & Networking Design, and PC & Networking Design with Security. The Branford Hall Career Institute in Bohemia offers Digital Computer Technology and Computerized Office Technology. The Suburban Technical School in Hempstead has a course in Digital Computer Technology. The College of Westchester at White Plains has courses in Computer Applications Management, Computer Network Administration, Multimedia Development and Management, Computer Applications Specialist, Computer Networking Specialist, Microsoft Office Specialist Program, Multimedia Technology, and Word Processing Specialist.

There are other computer training schools also available that specialize in other allied training skills. There are Computer Repair Schools, Computer Animation Schools, Computer Graphics Schools, Computer Science Schools, and Computer Programming Schools.

Computer Networking Schools Produce Qualified Technicians

2007-10-23T01:04:00.001-07:00

A penchant for computers and acquired technical abilities are desirable attributes for future computer networking technicians. Computer networking schools offer an education in the hands-on processes of computer networking. Students learn to configure routers and switches, and install wiring, as well as skills in maintenance and network diagnostics.

Computer networking schools offer professional training at many levels. Entry-level students can opt for a computer networking certification or a career diploma; they may further their education and obtain an associate’s degree. For the computer networking professional, a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree can greatly improve employment outlook.

A good computer networking college will cover all aspects of computer technology to prepare students to compete in the vast world of informational technology. Potential employment opportunities for graduates include positions in computer science, computer information systems, network administration, network systems engineering, network service technology, network analysis and programming, network information systems management, electrical and computer engineering, communications, telecommunications, and many other computer-related areas.

Computer networking has become one of the major career fields in today’s modern business world, and there is a constant need for qualified computer networking professionals. If you like working with computers and are you seeking a career in computers, a computer networking school is the right choice for you!

To learn more about the exciting and promising field of Computer Networking, and to choose the right Computer Networking School for you, look for more in-depth information and resources on our website.

6 Additional Steps to Social Networking

2007-10-18T23:47:00.000-07:00

At this point in time, it really is accurate to say that when it comes to cyberspace, social networking is all the rage. In this regard, you may be wondering how you might quickly become involved in social networking today. There are six steps to fast social networking that will be helpful to you in this regard.

1. The first step to fast social networking is joining a site that is popular and has high traffic. This will give you more opportunities to become known.

2. The next step to fast social networking is developing a cogent and yet interesting bio. This will entice visitors to visit your site.

3. Whether you like it or not, when it comes to fast social networking, you will get involved in the swim of things faster if you have a nice photo. Get one.

4. Consider adding other interesting images and perhaps artwork or graphics to your own social networking face or home page.

5. Advise other people who you already know that you are intent on fast social networking, that you are joining a social networking site.

6. Start to interact with other people. If you want to garner connections through fast social networking you cannot sit idly by and wait for people to come to you.

By following these tips and pointers, you do have the guidelines that you need to embark on a course of fast social networking in order to develop a whole new set of connections on the Net. These social connections can be your next customers.

Network Systems Online Schools

2007-10-18T23:46:00.000-07:00

An online course in Network Systems introduces the student to the foundations of network systems, and progresses later to more complex subjects of technological skills. Students will study fundamental network systems devices, routers, network management, design, and troubleshooting.

Most Network Systems courses can be completed completely online, or through computer-based distance learning programs, depending on the delivery formats required. Courses provide an overview of Network Systems organization and management. Voice and data communications standards, components, topologies, and media for traditional and high-speed LAN are will be considered. Networking operating systems and management should be included in courses of study for degrees in Network Systems.

Diplomas, associate degrees, bachelor degrees and master degrees are available from Online Network Systems schools programs. Bachelor of Science Degrees (BS) in Network Systems focus on configuration and installation of network applications and services, infrastructure, design, problem-solving, and troubleshooting. Students will learn uses of technologies and applications for business, and security solutions for LANs in private and public Network Systems. Courses will include networking operating systems, network design, networking security, network administration, and wide-area networking.

Career advancement or entry-level Network Systems employment is the focus of courses in programming, web development, database management, and networking. Bachelor degree programs prepare students with the knowledge, communication skills, critical thinking, and technical competencies required in the modern workplace for advancing their careers in information technology.

Among courses required to complete bachelor degrees in Network Systems are computer networks, computer network administration, and wireless networking. Online bachelor and master degree programs allow for choices in concentration, such as programming, computer systems, network administration, and management.

Online Network Systems Schools that offer Master Degrees in Network Systems and information technology programs may combine technology and Internet security with information management courses to assure greater success in the career market.

Computer Network Engineering Schools Offer Advanced Degrees

2007-10-15T05:17:00.000-07:00

Computer Network Engineering Schools, colleges, and universities grant associate, bachelor, master, doctorate degrees, and post-graduate certificates in computer network engineering and management. Degree programs in computer network engineering teach the design, installation, configuration, and maintenance of computer system networks.

Computer network engineering college students will develop a solid background in math and science, as well as skills in critical thinking, communication, logic, and problem solving. Courses in calculus and physics, in addition to computer programming and networking can be expected.

Bachelor degree students in computer network engineering university programs will be prepared for entry-level positions as network administrators and technical support specialists.

Master and doctorate computer network engineering degree programs emphasize specialized technical network engineering. Post-graduate certificate programs provide advanced topics of study, allowing students to develop expertise in specific areas.

Computer network engineering college and university graduate degree programs are designed for engineers with bachelor degrees in electrical engineering, computer science, computer engineering, or a related discipline, and for engineers in the fields of design and development of network systems, components, products, and services.

Corporations and businesses use computer networks in daily functions, making the jobs of computer network engineers important for keeping these networks in good operating condition. Computer network engineers are prepared for a variety of duties involved in designing new computers, testing computers, and maintaining existing computer network systems.

Since keeping current with trends and developments in technology, computer network engineers can anticipate continuing their education throughout their careers in workshops and continuing education courses.

Computer network engineering careers will continue to grow with the growth and use of advancing technology. If you would like to learn more about the promising field of Computer Network Engineering and Computer Network Engineering Schools, please search our site for more in-depth information and resources.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular school(s) that is or is not advertised on SchoolsGalore.com.

Computer Networking Online Schools

2007-10-15T05:15:00.000-07:00

There is great demand in today's business world for professionals who have earned a diploma, certification or degree in computer networking. For many working adults, an online school for computer networking studies is the most convenient educational path. And, with an online degree, you will be qualified to apply for many interesting and vital positions in the field of computer networking.

Many people find that an online computer networking course provides a flexible way to earn certification or a college degree. Students learn over the Internet by downloading the comprehensive distance learning programs, and studying at times that are convenient. In addition to basic software training, online computer networking curriculums usually involve in-depth studies of computer network engineering, network support and administration, program design, and information security (from major technology organizations). They also teach students about network authentication applications and operating systems, software tools, the technical aspects of computers and PCs, and numerous other relevant subjects.

The length of the individual course can vary greatly from school to school, but those who have successfully completed an entry-level computer networking course can go on to earn higher level degrees, including Associates, Bachelors and Masters. Graduates can look forward to jobs that would include network administrators, network managers, network system engineers, security analysts, and many more.

Online computer networking schools offer many great advantages: Flexible coursework, affordability, fully-accredited degrees, and no strict deadlines. An online course in computer networking works best for the self-starter who is looking for a step up in today’s technologically advanced world of computers.

If you are interested in learning more about Online Computer Networking Schools and other programs of study, please search our site for more information and resources.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular school(s) that is or is not advertised on SchoolsGalore.com.

A Brief History of Cisco Certification Training

2007-10-12T03:26:00.002-07:00

Network Troubleshooting Commands

2007-10-12T03:26:00.001-07:00

Troubleshooting computer network is among the most important job descriptions of the network administrators, system administrators, network technicians and the IT consultants. A computer network can have different kinds of problems such as it can be infected with virus and spyware, attacked by hackers, accessed by unauthorized users and may face connectivity failure issues due to the faulty network devices or configurations. Following is a list of the basic network troubleshooting commands that are built-in the Windows based operating systems and UNIX etc. The right use of these troubleshooting commands can helps a lot in diagnosing and resolving the issues with your computer network.

PING
Ping is the most important troubleshooting command and it checks the connectivity with the other computers. For example your system’s IP address is 10.10.10.10 and your network servers’ IP address is 10.10.10.1 and you can check the connectivity with the server by using the Ping command in following format.

At DOS prompt type Ping 10.10.10.1 and press enter

If you get the reply from the server then the connectivity is ok and if you get the error message like this “Request time out” this means the there is some problem in the connectivity with the server.

IPCONFIG
IPconfig is another important command in Windows. It shows the IP address of the computer and also it shows the DNS, DHCP, Gateway addresses of the network and subnet mask.

At DOS prompt type ipconfig and press enter to see the IP address of your computer.

At DOS prompt type inconfig/all and press enter to see the detailed information.

NSLOOKUP
NSLOOKUP is a TCP/IP based command and it checks domain name aliases, DNS records, operating system information by sending query to the Internet Domain Name Servers. You can resolve the errors with the DNS of your network server

HOSTNAME
Hostname command shows you the computer name.

At DOS prompt type Hostname and press enter

NETSTAT
NETSTAT utility shows the protocols statistics and the current established TCP/IP connections in the computer.

NBTSTAT
NBTSTAT helps to troubleshoot the NETBIOS name resolutions problems.

ARP
ARP displays and modifies IP to Physical address translation table that is used by the ARP protocols.

FINGER
Finger command is used to retrieve the information about a user on a network.

TRACERT
Tracert command is used to determine the path of the remote system. This tool also provides the number of hops and the IP address of each hop. For example if you want to see that how many hops (routers) are involved to reach any URL and what’s the IP address of each hop then use the following command.

At command prompt type tracert www.yahoo.com you will see a list of all the hops and their IP addresses.

TRACEROUTE
Traceroute is a very useful network debugging command and it is used in locating the server that is slowing down the transmission on the internet and it also shows the route between the two systems

ROUTE
Route command allows you to make manual entries in the routing table.

Hopefully the above mentioned commands will help you to diagnose the troubleshooting your computer networking problems.

Network Systems Schools Provide a New Career Path

2007-10-11T04:52:00.000-07:00

Good Network Systems Schools provide students with a thorough understanding of network systems organization and management, as well as voice and data communications standards, components, topologies, and media for traditional and high-speed local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs). Instruction begins with the foundations of network systems and network systems uses.

Bachelor degree programs in network systems prepare students with knowledge for advancing careers in information technology (IT) that includes fundamental network devices, systems, and routers; uses of technologies and applications for business; communication skills, analysis, critical thinking, and technical competencies required in the modern workplace. Network systems bachelor degree programs will present studies of uses of technologies and business applications; configuration and installation of network design, infrastructure, applications, and services; network operating systems and security; and problem solving and troubleshooting.

Master degrees in network systems and information technology programs may combine technology and Internet security with information management and administration courses. Master degree students can expect courses in digital technologies such as computers, high-speed control, smart devices; computer network management and network administration; wireless networking and network design; technological skills, theory, languages, and programming; security solutions for LANs in private and public network systems; and taking leadership roles in the development, applications, and management.

Incomes can vary widely according to specialization, and type and size of business. Graduates with bachelor degrees in network systems with concentrations in systems analysis, management, and IT can expect incomes of $40,000 to $50,000; master degree with specialties in security, database, or LAN administration will net about $15,000 to $20,000 more. Doctorate degree salaries can readily approach $95,000 annually.

Networking Software and Hardware

2007-10-11T04:51:00.000-07:00

Networking allows one computer to share information with another. For home office users, this can be a unique advantage. Rather than putting data directly into two computers, you can put it into one computer and then have that computer share the information by using networking software and hardware. Truly, networking software and hardware make life easier and prove to be excellent time saving tools.

In order to create a network in your home you will need to purchase the correct hardware if you don't already have it. You will need, in some cases, a file server, network interface cards, Ethernet cards, local talk connectors, a switch, a router, and/or a bridge. If you are unfamiliar with these products it may serve you well to discuss with the computer hardware distributor, what parts you may or may not require. Further, you might want to hire someone who is knowledgeable to install your network for you.

You might also need to buy networking software. A networking operating system differs from DOS and Windows applications and if your computer does not possess a networking operating system, you may be forced to invest in one. There are two primary network operating systems: client/server and peer-to-peer networks. If you are looking to establish a small, but simple networking system then you will most likely benefit from a peer-to-peer network. For larger systems, however, a client/server is your best option.

When you have a peer-to-peer network, you will not require a dedicated server to share information between computers. Conversely, a client/server requires the use of a dedicated server and this can result in additional expenses for you. Plus, a peer-to-peer network can adapt easily to a Windows Operating System and a knowledgeable individual can easily configure your existing computer to work with your peer-to-peer software.

Before you decide to set up a networking system, you should most definitely research the process. Networking can be a complicated business and if you are unsure of what you are doing, you can actually damage your existing equipment. Again, if you want a networking system established and you are unsure of how to go about it, your best bet is to spend the extra cash to hire someone who can get the process working for you properly as well as advise you about what options are available.

Ultimately, setting up a home network is meant to make your work easier, not harder. Therefore, when considering your network options, do your research, price comparisons and definitely talk to a professional about the best way to set up your system. Once your home networking system is established you will find that you can share information between computers with ease. In the end, that is your goal - to make your work easier, and you don't need more complications than those that already arise on a regular basis!

Cisco Buys Its Way Into Social Networking

2007-10-09T23:40:00.000-07:00

The purchase of the privately held company is part of Cisco's strategy of acquiring small, niche technology companies to diversify from its traditional focus on telecom equipment, such as the routers and switches that direct Internet traffic.

Five Across was founded in 2003 and has 11 employees in San Francisco. Its software helps companies set up blogs, podcasts, as well as audio, video, and photo sharing on their Web sites. The National Hockey League is one of its clients.
Cisco's recent acquisitions include Internet security firm IronPort. Last year, it closed its acquisition of cable set-top box maker Scientific-Atlanta, a move that highlighted its expansion into the video and consumer entertainment market.

Kit aids development of networked embedded systems

2007-10-09T23:38:00.000-07:00

The STR91x series is a general-purpose Flash microcontroller family combining the ARM9E processor core with large Static RAM and Flash memories, and with broad connectivity through 10/100-Mbit Ethernet, Hi-Speed USB and CAN (Controller Area Network) protocols. It was developed specifically to meet growing demand for higher performance in embedded-control applications, and to provide built-in Ethernet capability to reduce the cost of fast networking. Typical applications include Point-of-Sale (POS) equipment, vending machines, industrial and building automation, serial-protocol gateways, and security and surveillance systems.
The Hitex software tools, included with the STR9-comStick, allow the developer to modify and recompile application source code, program the STR91x MCU, and debug applications as they run on the development system. The tool set includes the HiTOP5 debugger, and a GNU C/C++ compiler for ARM - both optimized for the STR9-comStick - plus a uIP TCP/IP stack port as a foundation for embedded Ethernet applications.

The kit also includes a set of ready-to-run sample applications, including an embedded web server, USB mouse software, CAN monitor and generator, vectored interrupt controller and timer, together with ADC and I/O routines. All the source files can be downloaded free from the Hitex website, and can be used, modified and adapted for the user's own application. Also available from the dedicated STR9-comStick website are the latest documentation, new sample applications and STR9 Insider's Guides, plus training and ordering information.

The cost-effective STR9-comStick completes the existing tool line-up for the STR9, building on the proven Hitex software tool set, and complementing the broad range of more specialized evaluation kits, software and debugging tools, from ST and from third parties including Hitex, IAR, Keil and Raisonance. The comStick is an easy-to-use entry-level tool that simplifies the evaluation and development of networked applications taking advantage of the computing power and connectivity features of the STR91xF series MCUs.
About STMicroelectronics

STMicroelectronics is a global leader in developing and delivering semiconductor solutions across the spectrum of microelectronics applications. An unrivalled combination of silicon and system expertise, manufacturing strength, Intellectual Property (IP) portfolio and strategic partners positions the Company at the forefront of System-on-Chip (SoC) technology and its products play a key role in enabling today's convergence markets. The Company's shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange, on Euronext Paris and on the Milan Stock Exchange.

Tips To Build Confidence In Network Marketing

2007-10-08T01:45:00.000-07:00

Confidence means a state of mind or a manner marked by easy coolness and freedom from uncertainty, diffidence, or embarrassment. Confidence stresses faith in oneself and one's powers without any suggestion of conceit or arrogance.

Here is a list of nine important points that will help to build your confidence.

Build Your Dream: It all starts with a dream. It’s the “why” behind the “how”. Try this exercise: take a look at the back of your hands. Focus on them for a minute. Now close your eyes and imagine your hands wrapped around the steering wheel of your dream car. Picture yourself driving it. Revel in the emotion you feel as you experience that car. You can do the same with any dream you have, tangible or not. Picture the expression on someone’s face or the sense of anticipation as you hand someone a special gift; whatever your dream, imagine it and savor the good feelings it produces in you.

Our thoughts have a profound impact on what manifests into our lives. The more we focus on what we want, the more we attract that into our lives. By the same token, the more we focus on what we don’t want, the worse we feel, the worse we perform, and consequently, the more we attract what we don’t want.

Dress Sharp: No need to give up your style while you conduct business (unless it’s sloppy, sleazy, or downright scary), but do dress up to the same level of professionalism as your leaders. Professionally dressed people draw more trust, respect, and credibility. If you need some help picking the right threads, or if you have questions about hair, make-up, to shave or not to shave etc., get some perspective from someone on your support team.

Smile and be yourself: People who smile are 100% more approachable. Smiling is also the quickest, least expensive way to improve your looks and your results in the business. You are at your best when you are true to your inner self. Don’t try to be something or someone that you aren’t; just work on being the best you.

Get Organized: Don’t clutter your valuable mind space with things that you need to remember. As a professional in this business you need your brain to think. Get yourself a pocket calendar, a notebook, or a planner and write everything down. Important dates, tasks, your prospect list, your dreams, goals, thoughts- write it all down. The more you dump your thoughts on paper, the more space you’ll have in your brain to think. Try it and you’ll be amazed at how the fog lifts!

Prepare to do business: Have on hand what you need to show your business and to follow through with prospects including any materials you may want to leave them. You should also have your own set of personal favorites (books/audios) to keep you up and on your game, especially after those times when your prospect turns out to be a dud. Don’t load up on a bunch of stuff you’re never going to use, but don’t shortchange the things that you do need.

Know and use your products: It’s the building block of your business.

Start reading, listening, and learning: Give yourself a week before your attitude is challenged. The only way to equip yourself with the right answers, the right attitude, and the right perspective for what you are about to face as you talk to people about your business is to devour the books and audios recommended by your coach. Your support team has some sort of continuing education program they recommended – subscribe to it. Whether you are smart or not, when you read and listen often, you’ll come across as an informed business owner because you’ve acquired the knowledge, attitude, and belief of top leaders. And even if you feel you don’t need it, there will be someone on your team who does. Stay informed and you’ll know what books and audios to promote to your team.

Set a goal: Point your compass toward something achievable that is also a bit of a stretch. If you don’t have a simple goal that comes to your mind this instant, stop reading, give it some thought and then write it down. Talk it over with your support team and develop a strategy to obtain it. Short-term goals give you focus, they get you moving, and of course, when accomplished, you’ll feel great to have a win under your belt.

Keep an open line of communication: People headed for quicksand usually don’t know it so it’s important to keep in regular communication with someone on your support team who can guide you through the field you’re trekking. One piece of advice could be the difference between one week and one year. Keep them informed of what’s going on and try to learn from them every step of the way.

new world of IT networking, The

2007-04-25T04:57:00.002-07:00

Recent announcements from HP,IBM and Sun all foretell a new and evolutionary concept in IT. The underpinning of this concept is the remolding of the vertical silos of technology within a company into a horizontal structure based on business imperatives. In the new world of IT, the main business tenets of the corporation become intertwined with the technology to form an operationally cohesive structure that will help a company achieve its revenue and profit goals. In this way, IT finally will return to its roots as an integral business profit tool rather than a business expense.

Too often in business presentations, the network is alluded to as a "cloud" but never made a part of the business integration effort. While the computing industry has focused on meeting customers' needs for application integration and increased availability the network industry has remained out of touch with customer demand.

The network community must begin to realize that it is not the center of the IT universe, but only a segment of its operational processes. Network applications, including management, operations, signaling, convergence and security; should be developed and interface with one another using software industry standards rather than proprietary network standards. Just like the TDM, hardware-based PBX, so should the software-based Internetwork Operating System become a proprietary networking legacy. Open standards "rule," with Linux becoming an operating system of choice for embedded systems and a viable option for servers, and XML-based messaging the lingua franca of all applications. Integration of legacy applications, databases, development tools and even operating environments now can be accomplished using XML.
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Heterogeneity is a way of life in IT. The new world of IT will kick it up a notch by taking the concept of heterogeneity into hybrid architectures of customer-owned applications networked with third-party services or partner equipment and software. IT environments such as IBM's on-demand architecture will not only accommodate legacy or hybrid structures, but also exploit them using XML.

Another tenet of the new world of IT is virtualization. One cannot implement this concept correctly without an optimized network. The IT community never addresses network issues such as latency. The assumption is that the customer's transport bandwidth is infinite, always will meet demand and availability and network techniques such as caching or quality of service (QoS) will be in place to control network latency problems. Unfortunately, carrier transport services are not free and on demand, nor are 10G bit/sec LAN upgrades. The network costs associated with achieving compute and storage virtualization are not minimal, nor is the task mundane. The complexity, from a LAN and WAN perspective, makes the issue of voice convergence seem simple.

Paramount to the success of this new world is the integration of IT and wired or wireless network management to form a single seamless entity within the corporate business structure. Policy associated with application workflow - coupled with network access security and QoS, and managed under a single service-level agreement - will be linked to its corporate business value, such as speed of revenue recognition and profitability of the transaction sequence. Distributed automation technology used in tasks such as resource allocation, workflow scheduling, capacity measurement, fault prediction/isolation and security is now part of integrated IT management rather than today's isolated islands of systems and network management.

The introduction of on-demand, adaptive and utility computing has changed the rules of networking. The development, integration, operations and management of this new IT environment must be viewed from a business perspective and therefore measured as an integral part of all corporate business practices. Times have changed; the phrase "the network is the computer" no longer will be valid in the new world of IT.

Travelocity's flight to open system

2007-04-25T04:57:00.001-07:00

CTO Barry Vandevier trusts Linux to keep Travelocity's renowned extended enterprise aloft.

The extended enterprise concept is as old as networking itself and as young as e-commerce. Few companies typify that old/young dichotomy better than Travelocity, the Internet child of Sabre Holdings - granddaddy of extended enterprises.

In Travelocity's seven-plus years of operation, it expertly has piloted the e-business skies, serving millions of customers with connections to thousands of hoteliers, airlines, car rental agencies and other travel suppliers.

Its Merchant Program, just one instance of its e-business architecture, already represents more than 7,500 hotels one year after its launch. With this program,which increased by 3,000 partners from June to September 2003 alone, Travelocity behaves like a hoteliers own Web site.Via exclusive contracts negotiated between Travelocity and the hoteliers, the site taps into the hoteliers' central reservation systems (CRS) and carts out the lowest rates and real-time availability This is in addition to the 55,000 hotels that Travelocity sells via the Sabre system (the same data accessible by all travel agencies using Sabre).

CTO Barry Vandevier, one of Travelocity's early site developers and a member of Sabre's IT team before that,became CTO in October 2002. He describes his passion for open source tools and shares his thinking on Web services, security and site management in an interview with Julie Bort, executive editor for Network World's Signature Series.
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From an IT standpoint, describe your relationship with Sabre.

We have separate IT organizations. We focus on the Travelocity site, Sabre on the infrastructure, but we collaborate heavily on a constant basis building out our projects. For instance, the Hotel Merchant product that [Travelocity has], we built together.The Total Trip product that we released in June, where we are packaging our hotel and air products together, was a combined product between Travelocity and Sabre.

Tell me a bit about Travelocity's architecture.

We are migrating to a new architecture, from our original system built on C++, running on Unix SGI. We are migrating to an open source Java platform running on Linux.Total Trip is running on the new architecture, as is some other functionality. We'll continue migrating over the next several months [for completion] next year.

Why Linux?

We want to improve our flexibility and really decrease our time to market.The system we run for some of our older products is great, but from a total-cost-of-ownership perspective, Linux was just a very good ROI.

We're a big fan of open source, from total cost of ownership and from the sharing/collaboration [creation processes], using tools developed by other people and having [easy access] to other people who have experience with them. We're using Tomcat, Struts, Linux, JUnit, as well as some off-the-shelf products, like [IBM's] Rational Rose and [JetBrains'] IntelliJ, for our [Java] development environment (see graphic, below).

Tell me about Travelocity's Merchant Program. What infrastructure was needed to enable direct connectivity to the hoteliers' CRS?

We took advantage of existing Sabre connectivity to 55,000 hotels' CRS to really improve our suppliers' ability to update rates and inventories on our system. We partnered with Sabre and built interfaces to [Sabre's] Merchant platform through XML services.

You say XML services. You don't consider the connectivity between the Travelocity and Sabre Merchant systems to be Web services?

I would actually But because that was built a while back, we are working on a much more robust gateway, right now, with Sabre. This is Sabre's Universal Services Gateway which gives us access to Sabre capabilities via Web services.

So the current, XML services don't have all the latest fancy things, like UDDI, etc., I would guess?

That is correct.

What then is your opinion of Web services?

Web services are a big key for us for the future, to improve flexibility and changes between [us and our] partners. Web services will enhance our suppliers' connectivity, so making changes or adding content will be much faster for both parties.

What advice can you offer for security?

Security has got to be top of the mind. We have a full-time security officer. We also work a lot with Sabre security, and we involve security at the beginning of every one of our projects. We walk through a set of security questions so that we get our technical leads thinking about the subject. Any profile or customer data has to be heavily encrypted. Anything [sensitive] we store in any servers or database has to be encrypted. We never send, for instance, credit card data through the customer's [user interface], we only do the last four digits.

Cisco Systems Supports National Groundhog Job Shadow Day 2006; More Than 100 Cisco U.S. Locations to Host Networking Academy Students

2007-04-25T04:56:00.002-07:00

SAN JOSE, Calif. -- Starting February 2, Cisco Systems(R) (NASDAQ:CSCO) will kick off Job Shadow Days at five primary sites across the country: Atlanta, Ga., Chicago, Ill., Herndon, Va., Raleigh, N.C., and San Jose, Calif. In conjunction with its business partners and customers, Cisco(R) will be helping thousands of students from the Cisco Networking Academy(R) program learn first-hand about working in the information technology (IT) industry. By May, Cisco will have hosted students in up to 100 field sites across all 50 states.

The Cisco Networking Academy provides students with the Internet technology skills essential in a global economy. The Program offers students and workers who want to expand their IT knowledge or consider a career in the high-tech industry valuable networking and IT skills.

"Hosting students from the Networking Academy provides Cisco employees with a tremendous opportunity to give back to the community and help shape the future leaders of our industry," said Tae Yoo, vice president of corporate affairs, Cisco Systems. "Job shadowing presents a wonderful chance for students to broaden their horizons. The program exposes young people to career opportunities and helps translate how what they learn in the classroom leads to success in the workplace."
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The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that demand for IT professionals will grow by nearly 50 percent through 2012. Cisco's Job Shadow Day will help students from Job Corp centers, high schools and colleges throughout the country position themselves for highly rewarding futures in the IT Industry.

Designed to encourage students to participate in careers and pursue educational opportunities in IT, Cisco's Job Shadow Day events feature technology demonstrations, facility tours and the opportunity for students to hear directly from a variety of technology professionals about what a career in IT entails on a day-to-day basis. Technology professionals will give presentations, and students will have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with mentors during lunchtime roundtables and throughout the day.

National job shadowing is a coordinated effort of America's Promise, Junior Achievement, the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor honored Cisco as a Corporate Gold Award recipient as a result of its Job Shadow Day efforts. Cisco employees devote hundreds of hours to Job Shadow Day activities, and as a result, Cisco provides a matching donation to Junior Achievement.

Silicon & Software Systems Introduces 90nm IP Portfolio for Consumer and Enterprise Networking Applications; S3 to Demonstrate Mixed-Signal Expertise

2007-04-25T04:56:00.001-07:00

SAN JOSE, Calif. -- Silicon & Software Systems Ltd (S3), a leading supplier of licensable mixed-signal intellectual property building blocks, today announced the availability of silicon-proven data converter IP for designs in the 90nm process technology node. The company will demonstrate these new IP cores to customers gathering here at the TSMC Technology Symposium, Wednesday, May 17.

S3's extensive 90nm IP portfolio includes ADCs, DACs and associated PLL components, optimized for integration in System ICs targeting consumer and broadband communication applications. Some of the end markets served by S3 customers include WLAN and WiMAX, digital broadcast standards (e.g. DVB-T and DVB-H) and High-Definition (HD) video applications.

Last August, Gartner Dataquest reported that the "analog and mixed signal IP grew by 36 percent in 2004, almost twice as much as the total IP market. We expect market growth to be equally impressive in 2005. This growth is being enabled by new tools and methodologies that aim to increase the value of the IP relative to the cost of integrating it into a SOC (system-on-a-chip)."(1)
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"S3's successful R&D investments in 90nm process technology services and products have already generated considerable interest from the company's global customer base of IDM and fabless suppliers," said Mike Murray, S3 Mixed Signal IP general manager. "Customers recognize the significant benefits of increased levels of product integration available to them at 90nm and they are repeatedly validating this point by incorporating our proven IP in their advanced SoC designs."

S3 has already taped out solutions, integrating its IP into single-chip systems, and has leveraged its considerable experience at 90nm with more than 20 SoC designs in the 90nm process technology node.

A major attraction for customers is access to S3's engineering design expertise in combination with proven silicon IP. The advantage of a one-stop-shop for IP and design services at the 90nm node is clear to customers who need to ensure confidence that their product will meet shrinking market windows and will speed time to revenue for their end-customers.

S3 will discuss its design services capabilities and the advantages of incorporating its mixed-signal IP blocks into single-chip systems at its display at the TSMC Technology Symposium at the San Jose Convention Center, Wednesday, May 17.

(1) Gartner, Inc., "Analog and Mixed Signal IP Is Growing in Importance" by Christian Heidarson. August 8, 2005.

About Silicon & Software Systems Ltd. (S3):

S3 delivers innovative System IC design solutions based on a unique combination of semiconductor engineering expertise, advanced methodologies, customizable IP and application knowledge. The company addresses complete System IC design processes from architecture to verification to system verified silicon. S3 focuses on leading-edge IC designs, including products at the 90nm and 65nm process technology nodes. S3's global customer base includes the world's leading semiconductor companies (both IDMs and fabless suppliers) and the company teams with major foundry partners.

S3 offers an extensive portfolio of silicon-proven customizable Mixed Signal IP, featuring high-performance analog building blocks such as ADCs, DACs and PLLs for a wide variety of technically demanding System IC, Digital Consumer, Network Infrastructure and Medical System applications including Wireless LAN, Broadband Communications, Imaging and Video. S3 was founded in Dublin, Ireland in 1986 and has operations in six countries: Ireland, USA, the Netherlands, Poland, Czech Republic and the UK

Protecting against wireless threats: security risks abound in networking environments that allow untethered server access - Computers & Auditing

2007-04-25T04:55:00.000-07:00

URING THE LAST TWO YEARS, wireless fidelity (WiFi) has become one of the fastest growing electronics technologies in history. Although much of this growth can be attributed to the consumer market, businesses have also begun to appreciate the value of beaming data through the airwaves and pulling the plug on conventional networks.

WiFi provides a degree of flexibility in the work environment that cannot be achieved with conventional, wired connections. Through the use of wireless local-area networks (WLAN), for example, manufacturers can reconfigure production facilities for increased efficiency, hospital staff members can use handheld devices to deliver patient information, warehouse workers can exchange inventory control information without crossing the warehouse floor, and students and teachers can communicate without being confined to a computer lab or dorm room.

At the same time, however, WiFi also presents greater risks and security challenges. For instance, whereas typical wired networks feature a limited number of fixed physical points of access, wireless networks can be used at any point within range of the system's antennas -- approximately 300 feet. WLANs can potentially provide access to individuals located outside the physical security perimeter of the network, such as the office parking lot, an adjacent floor, or a nearby building, creating a host of new vulnerabilities for hackers and other ill-intentioned users to exploit.
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With the increased presence of wireless connectivity in today's businesses, internal audit professionals need to recognize this emerging technology's potential impact on their organization's risk environment and help protect against wireless threats. Auditors can play a valuable role in assisting with WLAN-related risk management during both the evaluation and implementation phases for these systems, as well as after the WLAN is fully operational.

EVALUATION

Before system implementation, internal auditors should focus their attention on issues related to the adoption of wireless technology. Vendor offerings can vary considerably, especially in terms of security, and poor decisions made during this phase can lead to unnecessary risk.

First, auditors should ensure the company focuses on wireless vendors that provide standards-based security solutions. Many vendor offerings deliver security features such as key exchange and encryption through the use of proprietary technology, which can affect WLAN compatibility with other network components and increase the complexity of managing security in a multi-vendor environment. Furthermore, proprietary solutions can compromise independent security experts' ability to analyze and remedy weaknesses throughout the network.

Next, the audit team should make sure the company thoroughly assesses the security features of each vendor's system, as well as vendor plans for improving the inherent weaknesses of wireless encryption protocol (WEP) -- a standard security feature found on most WiFi networks that helps to prevent casual "eavesdropping" by unauthorized parties. Because many experts believe WEP's encryption method provides inadequate protection against intruders, WEP is being replaced by WiFi Protected Access (WPA), which is a standards-based, interoperable security specification that significantly increases the level of data protection and access control. Therefore, auditors should ensure that the manufacturer of each system being considered for purchase has plans for upgrading to this new technology once its available and that its equipment can be adapted easily to WPA.

Until WPA is released, however, auditors should also ensure the company considers using extensible authentication protocol (EAP) to provide an additional layer of security to wireless systems. EAP is a method of conducting an authentication conversation between a user and an authentication server. Its role is to relay messages between the parties performing the authentication. In wireless communications using EAP, user connection requests are relayed from the WAP to an authentication server, which then requests proof of identity.

Auditors should also make sure the organization gives adequate consideration to the overall design of a security strategy for its WLAN. Although WLAN design is an extremely specialized field, auditors can help by ensuring that a site survey is performed to obtain details about coverage, bandwidth performance, and access point placement. Auditors should also verify that the design takes into account both the initial and the target size of the WLAN, as security strategies may vary considerably depending on the overall number of users. In addition, auditors should ensure the company has considered a method of protecting the WLAN against malicious threats such as manipulation of protocols and denial-of-service attacks.

Metrobility adds CWDM to metro - New Products/New Services; Metrobility Optical Systems

2007-04-13T00:10:00.001-07:00

Metrobility Optical Systems announced that it is introducing a scalable and flexible managed Ethernet CWDM solution for metro access or campuses to its Radiance model family. A cost effective passive optical networking solution to bring fiber optics to the curb, business and home, the R4000 CWDM models reduce the capital expenditure of the channel costs to approximately 1/3 that of DWDM, and reduces the operating expenditures by simplifying the installation, configuration, and management of the network.

Metrobility's R4000 CWDM solution maximizes the use of the existing fiber plant, is simple to deploy, leverages existing Ethernet expertise, and creates a solution that addresses quality of service issues since it is both highly available and highly manageable. Metrobility's CWDM solution utilizes a Gigabit Ethernet line card with wavelength-specific SFP pluggable optics based on the ITU-T industry standard 20nm spacing. The line card, available as copper-to-fiber or fiber-to-fiber, provides an inline electrical conversion mechanism for monitoring the optical power of every link against problems such as poor connections, wavelength degradation, and even physical breaks in the fiber.

Optical power management is accomplished through the company's EFM OAM feature-ready Radiance technology and Metrobility's NetBeacon SNMP Element Management software. Optional line protection and restoration capabilities are also available by providing dual wavelength-specific fiber connections that automatically failover should a link loss occur. The R4000 (1U high, 19 or 23" rack mount) multiplexer is a scalable solution that supports up to 12 wavelengths (from 1350nm to 1610nm) based on the ITU G.694.2 CWDM wavelength grid. Optical add/drop multiplexers provide either point-to-point or ring topologies and can support distances up to 80km without regeneration. The R4000 enables service providers to offer up to 12 Gigabits of bandwidth over a single fiber link. The R4000 is designed to meet NEBS certification requirements.

A Roadmap for the Successful Implementation of Competitive Intelligence Systems

2007-04-13T00:09:00.000-07:00

THE SUCCESSFUL DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND DEPLOYMENT OF A SUCCESSFUL CI system requires a good project plan. Much [ike a roadmap, this plan serves to identify important miLestones and provide information about alternative routes that can help the project team(s) avoid delays. According to a survey by the Delphi Group, 58% of the useful knowledge of an organization is recorded information (documents and databases) and 42% resides in employee brains (Hickens 1999). Integrating knowledge management and competitive intelligence encourages their use, improves their quality and allows the firm to respond more rapidly to changing business conditions (Senge 1994), so the best CI system uses what is already inside the organization. One of the first decisions is whether to improve access to the organization's recorded information or elicit knowledge that currently resides in employee brains. Regardless of format or location, an organization's knowledge is generally filtered through both a cognitive dimension and a relatio nship dimension.

The cognitive dimension focuses on the "stuff," but to identify the important attributes of the relevant "stuff," it is important to know how it is filtered through the relationship dimension. The relationship dimension has the following characteristics:
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Purpose -- the organization's business purpose, its vision, mission, goals and objectives

Process -- the means by which strategic initiatives are moved from "clean sheet" to launch

People -- the "four - ics"

* Demographics -- personal characteristics of current and potential users (e.g., position, education and training, learning style)

* Psychographics -- personal belief systems that impact action/reaction/interaction

* Geographics -- factors of culture, distance and time

* Politics -- formal/informal lines of authority, innovation and trust (Shelfer and Goodrum 1999)

The planning process and the project itself must take these characteristics into consideration in order to be successful. In fact, the successful CI system might also be likened to the steps involved in successful community gardening: (1) seed the ground, (2) water and fertilize what you plant, (3) weed the garden, (4) reward the gardeners, (5) discourage the predators, and (6) harvest the value.

Indicators of Project Failure or Project Success

Experienced consultants have identified the following critical failure indicators: (1) lack of informed consensus; (2) acceptance of the status quo; (3) unwarranted trust in the vendor; (4) failure to support the business purpose; (5) a short term, internal, myopic approach; (6) paralysis by analysis; (7) sabotage by external predators; (8) suicide through ignoring project constraints; and (9) failure to consider business, human or technology limitations imposed on the project (Tyson, 1998). Careful planning is the best form of failure prevention. There are both management constraints and technical constraints to be considered. Management constraints involve three key problem areas--time, money and scope. The flexibility needed to deliver a quality project is severely hampered if any one or two of these three are fixed. For example, project constraints impact deadline constraints. A fixed budget with deadline constraints generally kills any chance of success. Regarding technical constraints, is there any fle xibility in terms of the tools available? It is imperative to avoid getting caught up in the "trade rag" hype, so a warning is appropriate here: NEVER buy off vendor presentations! Other key factors to consider include experience, whether legacy systems are involved and whether the system will be "bleeding edge" or a patch. It helps to know if this system will be a pilot for knowledge-sharing in the organization.

Unlike failure, success can't be guaranteed, but it is much more likely if the project includes: (1) flexible design; (2) willingness to implement a mechanized "less than ideal" system; (3) use of an evolutionary approach with prototyping; (4) giving users substantial (to total) control; (5) coordination by individual business units; and (6) active networking. Though there are many factors contributing to software project success, the presence of a committed project sponsor is one of the most important early success factors (Proccacino and Verner 2001). A committed sponsor has a significant impact on many of the project phases and project functions, including the (1) schedule estimates, (2) quality of the project team members, and (3) degree of interaction with other stakeholders.

After 25 years, CABLExpress keeps networking

2007-04-13T00:06:00.000-07:00

NORTH SYRACUSE - CABLExpress founder William Pomeroy isn't waiting for historians to recognize his company's accomplishments. Visitors to CABLExpress' headquarters in North Syracuse encounter two historical monuments to the company before ever entering the building. One celebrates CABLExpress' occupation of the building while the other celebrates the company's accomplishments in the form of a historical marker like those placed along the highway. Though CABLExpress will mark 25 years this month, Pomeroy says he and his 296 employees have good reason to celebrate every day.

"We're the largest dealer in pr-owned/refurbished computernetwork equipment in the world," he says. "We are also the number-one reseller of Cisco-authorized refurbished equipment."

Privately held CABLExpress sells networking equipment and computers in more than 30 countries. The company has annual revenues of $98 million. Its name comes from the company's early concentration in networking cables for IBM-mainframe computers.
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Pomeroy came to Syracuse in 1974, following an extended vacation in South America. He spent two years traveling the continent via VW camper before going to work for Bernie Mahoney at Continental Information Systems (CIS) Corp., a computer-leasing company. In the early 1970s, "computer" meant a large mainframe built by IBM, rather than something to slip into a shoulder bag. These machines might serve as a "laptop" at the Lincoln Memorial, but even a desktop IBM was nearly a decade away.

Pomeroy had previously worked for IBM, Procter & Gamble, General Electric, and New York Telephone, but his future would take him back to an earlier job. In the early 1960s he worked with his father's heating business, and he liked what he saw.

"My dad was in business for himself," he says, "and I wanted to be like him."

After leaving CIS, Pomeroy used $50,000 in savings to create Reliance Used Computer Corp. He named the company in honor of one his grandfather had run after New York denied his registration of the name - "International Used Business Machines."

From his home, Pomeroy began buying and selling used, IBMmainframe computers and accessories nationwide. The United States Air Force was an early customer, relying on the company to provide legacy parts for the nation's over-the-pole, ballistic-missile warning system. The business has done well for the past quarter-century, says Pomeroy.

"I was profitable in the first year and every year since," he adds.

Within two years of starting a company in his home, Pomeroy moved the company to a location on Erie Boulevard and adopted the name CABLExpress, in order to identify with the company's mainframe-cabling niche. Five years later, CABLExpress relocated to a 10,000-square-foot facility on Brighton Avenue. Throughout the 1980s, CABLExpress expanded its operations, adding a catalog of networking equipment and selling to under-served markets. The rapid pace of technology brought CABLExpress back into the usedequipment market in the mid-1990s as Pomeroy recognized the value in a new generation of "obsolete" equipment.

By 1997, CABLExpress needed new space for its growing work force. Pomeroy purchased a vacant store near the Syracuse airport and converted the space into the company's headquarters. The 66,000-square-foot facility has space for 500 employees and Pomeroy says the company could grow to 1,000 employees by expanding its national and international markets. CABLExpress does 90 percent of its business outside New York State.

"We're just scratching the surface," he adds.

CABLExpress has its own brand of hardware - "equal2new," that promises to live up to its name. The company restores each piece of equipment to its original factory specifications, making it "equal to new" at a lower price.

"We scour the world for these pieces, certify them, and reissue them with a warranty that in many cases exceeds the original manufacturers warranty," Pomeroy explains.

CABLExpress may be one man's vision, but the company is far from a one-man show.

Pomeroy strives to maintain a "fun" workplace for his biggest asset - his 296 employees. CABLExpress' dinosaur-decorated office celebrates its roots selling mainframes, the "dinosaurs" of computing. Conference rooms bear the names of pioneers in science, business, and computing, such as Carl Sagan and Bill Gates.

Cisco Systems Supports National Groundhog Job Shadow Day 2006; More Than 100 Cisco U.S. Locations to Host Networking Academy Students

2007-04-06T00:36:00.001-07:00

Protecting against wireless threats: security risks abound in networking environments that allow untethered server access - Computers & Auditing

2007-04-06T00:35:00.000-07:00

Storage & Networking for NLEs: what's best for you? Fibre Channel, Gigabit Ethernet or iSCSI, a combination of both?

2007-04-06T00:34:00.000-07:00

When it comes to storage and networking, few applications are more demanding than nonlinear editing (NLE). Besides handling huge files, NLEs need data flowing in at sustained levels, without any glitches, hiccups or data loss. Storage failures compromise productivity and creative energy.

Nowhere is the need for speed more insatiable than the high end where editing high definition (HD) video is pushing the limits of network bandwidth and storage. There's a growing demand to network resolution-independent finishing systems (by such companies as Discreet and Quantel) to form collaborative workgroups" where multiple editors have simultaneous, realtime access to near-film resolution video in central repositories.

The conventional wisdom is that only Fibre Channel (now 2Gbps), configured as a SAN (Storage Area Network), is up to this daunting challenge--making up to 400MBps of data available to each network client without bottlenecks.

But because Fibre Channel is such a huge capital expense, it's often deployed judiciously, only to those workstations that require ultra-high-bandwidth for the most demanding realtime editorial. Unable to cost-justify Fibre Channel, the desktop NLE market--especially those working with non-realtime or compressed video--is finding Gigabit Ethernet (I Gbps) to be a better frt. At one-fifth the cost of Fibre Channel, Gig-E" has reached a point where its price performance makes it a compelling alternative for a tight budget.

And, what about facilities that have say four high-end finishing stations and maybe six low-end desktop systems, all of which need to share the same data, but Fibre Channel is too costly to connect them all? Well, an interesting option has emerged called SCSI, a newly adopted standard (not to be confused with SCSI or Ultra-SCSI) that will play a significant role in a growing trend called "IP SANs." IP (Internet Protocol) relates to the TCP/IP protocol central to standard networks like Gigabit Ethernet.

iSCSI routers, which have a Fibre Channel front-end and a Gigabit Ethernet back-end, are a hybrid solution bridging the Fibre Channel SAN with the Gigabit Ethernet workgroup to form one network on which anyone can share the same data, albeit at different data rates.

So, the controversy over whether to network NLEs with Fibre Channel or Gigabit Ethernet - or a combination of both with iSCSI--is only going to grow since hardware prices are falling while performance is rising dramatically. The vendors we canvassed have divergent views as to which approach is best suited to collaborative workgroups, from HD to DV, now and tomorrow.

STUDIO NETWORK SOLUTIONS

"Only Fibre Channel guarantees high performance to every workstation on the network no matter how many users access the data at the same time," says Gary Holladay, chief systems design engineer for Studio Network Solutions (SNS) in St Louis.

"While Gigabit Ethernet is a switched network it's a shared bandwidth environment," explains Holladay. "So, the more users 'hitting the switch' at once, the lower the bandwidth available to each client on the network Because Gigabit Ethernet is hampered by the overhead of TCP/IP processing, it's not sufficient to support several workstations requiring 170MBps for high-end video editing, especially with realtime effects.

"When several editors need to work on the same HD content simultaneously, the only way to guarantee that throughput to every client on the network is by using 2Gbps Fibre Channel, Below that HD benchmark, 1Gbps Fibre Channel is ideal for the demands of standard 601 editing," he adds.

"At SNS, we push the Fibre Channel hardware even further by optimizing the [Seagate] drives, and customizing the HBAs [Host Bus Adapters] for more streamlined, powerful and reliable SAN environments."

At NAB, SNS (wwwstudionetworksolutions.com) introduced SANmp Management and Sharing Software, which facilitates greater interoperability when sharing media between Windows and Mac OS platforms. When used with SNS's A/V SAN Pro, a SAN that scales from three to over 64 seats with up to 400MBps sustained throughput, users derive a multiplatform environment, SNS also offers A/V SAN, a two-user configuration--which, in addition to the A/V SAN Pro, was used by Grammy Award-winning music engineer David Gleeson in the editing, mixing, and recording of the music score for The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers.

"Our customer base has grown largely by word of mouth. By seeing what we've done for others, people recognize that our integrated solution will add value to their SAN by simplifying installation and ensuring reliable operation," says Holladay. "Every business wants to save money but cost cutting should not be done at the expense of workflow efficiency or the quality of the end product"

HUGE SYSTEMS

"If you understand the fine points of Fibre Channel and Gigabit Ethernet, it becomes clear that Gigabit Ethernet is the better solution to people's file sharing problems:' says Mike Anderson, chief engineer for Huge Systems (www.hugesystems.com) in Agoura Hills, CA."When Gigabit Ethernet is employed for file sharing on a network it qualifies as a 'SAN."' Anderson says that widely-held perceptions about Gigabit Ethernet are no longer true.

Travelocity's flight to open systems

2007-04-06T00:32:00.000-07:00

CTO Barry Vandevier trusts Linux to keep Travelocity's renowned extended enterprise aloft.

The extended enterprise concept is as old as networking itself and as young as e-commerce. Few companies typify that old/young dichotomy better than Travelocity, the Internet child of Sabre Holdings - granddaddy of extended enterprises.

In Travelocity's seven-plus years of operation, it expertly has piloted the e-business skies, serving millions of customers with connections to thousands of hoteliers, airlines, car rental agencies and other travel suppliers.

Its Merchant Program, just one instance of its e-business architecture, already represents more than 7,500 hotels one year after its launch. With this program,which increased by 3,000 partners from June to September 2003 alone, Travelocity behaves like a hoteliers own Web site.Via exclusive contracts negotiated between Travelocity and the hoteliers, the site taps into the hoteliers' central reservation systems (CRS) and carts out the lowest rates and real-time availability This is in addition to the 55,000 hotels that Travelocity sells via the Sabre system (the same data accessible by all travel agencies using Sabre).

CTO Barry Vandevier, one of Travelocity's early site developers and a member of Sabre's IT team before that,became CTO in October 2002. He describes his passion for open source tools and shares his thinking on Web services, security and site management in an interview with Julie Bort, executive editor for Network World's Signature Series.From an IT standpoint, describe your relationship with Sabre.

We have separate IT organizations. We focus on the Travelocity site, Sabre on the infrastructure, but we collaborate heavily on a constant basis building out our projects. For instance, the Hotel Merchant product that [Travelocity has], we built together.The Total Trip product that we released in June, where we are packaging our hotel and air products together, was a combined product between Travelocity and Sabre.

Tell me a bit about Travelocity's architecture.

We are migrating to a new architecture, from our original system built on C++, running on Unix SGI. We are migrating to an open source Java platform running on Linux.Total Trip is running on the new architecture, as is some other functionality. We'll continue migrating over the next several months [for completion] next year.

Why Linux?

We want to improve our flexibility and really decrease our time to market.The system we run for some of our older products is great, but from a total-cost-of-ownership perspective, Linux was just a very good ROI.

We're a big fan of open source, from total cost of ownership and from the sharing/collaboration [creation processes], using tools developed by other people and having [easy access] to other people who have experience with them. We're using Tomcat, Struts, Linux, JUnit, as well as some off-the-shelf products, like [IBM's] Rational Rose and [JetBrains'] IntelliJ, for our [Java] development environment (see graphic, below).

Tell me about Travelocity's Merchant Program. What infrastructure was needed to enable direct connectivity to the hoteliers' CRS?

We took advantage of existing Sabre connectivity to 55,000 hotels' CRS to really improve our suppliers' ability to update rates and inventories on our system. We partnered with Sabre and built interfaces to [Sabre's] Merchant platform through XML services.

You say XML services. You don't consider the connectivity between the Travelocity and Sabre Merchant systems to be Web services?

I would actually But because that was built a while back, we are working on a much more robust gateway, right now, with Sabre. This is Sabre's Universal Services Gateway which gives us access to Sabre capabilities via Web services.

So the current, XML services don't have all the latest fancy things, like UDDI, etc., I would guess?

That is correct.

What then is your opinion of Web services?

Web services are a big key for us for the future, to improve flexibility and changes between [us and our] partners. Web services will enhance our suppliers' connectivity, so making changes or adding content will be much faster for both parties.

What advice can you offer for security?

Security has got to be top of the mind. We have a full-time security officer. We also work a lot with Sabre security, and we involve security at the beginning of every one of our projects. We walk through a set of security questions so that we get our technical leads thinking about the subject. Any profile or customer data has to be heavily encrypted. Anything [sensitive] we store in any servers or database has to be encrypted. We never send, for instance, credit card data through the customer's [user interface], we only do the last four digits.

Hitachi Data Systems extends storage connectivity options with new iSCSI solution - along with McData

2007-04-04T03:01:00.001-07:00

Hitachi Data Systems, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd. (NYSE:HIT), has announced that it has partnered with McDATA, the expert provider of multi-capable storage networking solutions, to offer small-and medium-sized enterprises a cost-effective alternative for storage area networking, the Hitachi TrueNorth iSCSI SAN Solution.

Small-and medium-sized enterprises can realize the many benefits of networked storage such as storage consolidation, improved capacity utilization, centralized backup, security and unified storage management, while lowering total cost of ownership by leveraging a customer's IP infrastructure. In addition, the solution has been tested with Microsoft's native iSCSI drivers making this a perfect fit for Windows environments.

Providing a lower-cost alternative to Fibre Channel SANs, the new solution from Hitachi Data Systems and McDATA includes the Hitachi Thunder 9570V modular storage system, the McDATA Eclipse 1620 SAN internetworking switch, and enablement services.The Hitachi TrueNorth iSCSI SAN Solution reinforces our strategy of providing a range of connectivity options that address customers' needs for performance and availability at an affordable price," said Scott Genereux, Vice President, Global Marketing & Business Development, Hitachi Data Systems. "Our new iSCSI solution provides an alternative for customers who have been priced out of the SAN market by the high cost of Fibre Channel. Our partnership with McDATA has enabled us to bring this solution to market quickly with a combination of products and services that allows customers to rapidly and cost-effectively achieve the benefits of networked storage."

"As the need for access to information continues to grow, McDATA is committed to providing best-of-breed reliable solutions through partnerships with industry leaders," said Mike Gustafson, Senior Vice President of Worldwide Marketing, McDATA. "iSCSI allows customers to realize the benefits of a SAN at a lower entry cost, and McDATA is pleased to work with Hitachi Data Systems to make this exciting technology widely available to the market."

The iSCSI SAN Solution is the first offering available as part of Hitachi Data Systems' iSCSI strategy. This approach will build on the existing TrueNorth open and collaborative business model to over time deliver a range of iSCSI solutions for both the SME and enterprise market that will be complementary to the existing Freedom Data Networks SAN and NAS portfolio from Hitachi Data Systems. Additional iSCSI offerings will be announced in 2004.

Networking Recovery Imminent, Says Analyst

2007-04-04T03:00:00.002-07:00

While most analysts predict continued gloom for the hi-tech and telecoms markets, one networking expert is convinced of an economic boost as early as this autumn.

Venture capitalists (VCs) are beginning to funnel money into network infrastructure companies, as the technologies compensate for the internet's IP shortcomings which were blamed for the hi-tech sector's economic difficulties.

Will Cappelli, research fellow for network management at Giga Information Group, is convinced that this kind of investment will lift the sector's overall economic performance.

"Even small investments at deep infrastructure level have an exponential effect further up," he said. "Money is still flowing, but it is targeted at critical infrastructure areas that will enable IP to become a business-class platform."

Cappelli predicted the downturn late last year, and said it happened so quickly that companies disappeared overnight. It left VCs with little time to take their money out and vast investments remained in the technology sector. Now they are streamlining their portfolios.VCs reasoned: 'Let's clean out and reinvest in the companies that have survived so far'. They pulled money out of dotcoms and targeted infrastructure companies, such as optical layer, internet QoS and operation support systems (OSS)," he said.

Cappelli is confident in spite of recent disappointing results from OSS companies Lucent, Nortel and Cisco. He blamed Lucent's decline on bad management and its rebranding of vendor-independent technologies into Lucent products. Nortel, he said, suffered from some "dodgy technology choices", while Cisco products were too specific.

But Peter Sommer, research fellow at the London School of Economics, was sceptical. He detected no great cause for optimism as the technology sector is tied into the global economy as a whole. He does not expect an upturn until next spring at the earliest.

It's 2003: do you know where your data is? The government is enforcing strict new guidelines on archived data. Is your company complying? - Storage Ne

2007-04-04T03:00:00.001-07:00

In an era of diminishing trust and public skepticism, regulations are being enforced with greater vigor to enable regulatory authorities to accurately reconstruct past processes and events from electronic records. These sweeping initiatives are being targeted throughout the economy, with some regulations focusing on securities, broker-dealers, pharmaceutical companies, healthcare organizations, major manufacturers and public corporations with more than $75 million in market capitalization.

Legislation now requires many of these U.S. organizations to retain certain records in a way that prevents them from being erased or modified for substantial time periods, sometimes 30 years or more. Steps must also be taken to prevent records from being accessed by those without authorization. Some of these regulations, like those based on the Sarbanes-Oxley law, are new. Others, such as SEC regulations applying to broker-dealers, have existed in one form or another since the 1930s. However, the common themes are broader regulatory purview over more types of records and substantially strengthened enforcement. The main thrust behind strengthened records-retention regulations is the government's desire to maintain an exact record of past activities in order to improve corporate governance, protect investors, enhance national security, ensure the safety of new drugs or medical devices, and modernize medical care, while protecting patient privacy. As a result of some widely publicized Wall Street scandals, the SEC is now enforcing its Rule 17a--originally written in the 1930s--much more aggressively. The use of electronic communication in business has exploded, and brokerage houses are now heavily reliant on e-mail, instant messaging and electronic forms (tickets, statements, approvals, etc.) than before. The SEC now requires the retention of all electronic client communications and many other brokerage records on non-erasable, non-rewritable media (also known as write-once/read-many or "WORM" media). Additionally, the SEC is demanding increasingly rapid responses to more frequent and broader requests for information. A recent enforcement example of the new regulatory reality for broker/dealers is the $8.25 million fine levied on five Wall Street firms in December 2002 for failure to retain regulated e-mails for the proper amount of time. Other firms have been fined or forced to pay large fees because they were unable to find and recover archived e-mails from tapes in a timely fashion.

Healthcare

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), whose privacy rules came into effect April 14, 2003 (with more rules to follow), is designed to improve the efficiency of healthcare through improved access to patient records while simultaneously protecting patient privacy. The government's position is that the quality of medical care can be improved through rapid online access to patient records, but that strong protections must be in place to guard against malfeasance and misuse of confidential patient data. While HIPAA does not mandate how data is stored, the requirements are effectively forcing healthcare payer/providers (hospitals, insurance companies and HMOs) to manage all patient records electronically using secure systems and secure media.

Life Sciences and Pharmaceutical Industries

Federal regulation 21 CFR Part 11 is designed to streamline the process that brings drugs to market, a major interest of the Bush administration. The goal is a well-designed, well-managed flow of information about drug development, testing and batch manufacturing so that the accelerated path from discovery to market will be simultaneously fast and safe--not to mention well-documented. Rigorous records retention is essential to both verify each drug has been thoroughly tested before approval and to ensure a proper investigation should something go wrong with a drug. Since most pharmaceutical companies also maintain clinical trials data, they must also carefully guard the privacy of such data for HIPAA compliance. Enforcement of 21CFR Part 11 has been temporarily suspended because drug companies objected that it was applied too broadly and that compliance was too unwieldy. The government is now recasting the regulation to make it more specific, but it's clear that the regulation will still require careful retention and safeguarding of records for many years.

Corporate Financial Statements

Congress passed the Sarbanes-Oxley Act in response to a series of major corporate financial scandals where C-level executives claimed that they were not accountable for--or even not aware of--faulty financial statements. The new legislation, which affects U.S. public companies with more than $75 million in equity market capitalization and quarterly reporting requirements to the SEC, specifies that CEOs and CFOs must personally certify financial statements as accurate, under penalty of jail time. Additionally, "all audit or review workpapers" must be retained for five years from the end of the corresponding fiscal period. Sarbanes-Oxley specifies significant criminal penalties for "whoever knowingly alters, destroy, mutilates, conceals, covers up, falsifies, or makes a false entry in any record, document, or tangible object." Although open to interpretation, such wording implies great care as to how records associated with the production of financial statements are archived.

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