In my lifetime, (which has only been 29 years) I have seen computers become something that we cannot live without. This has opened the market to many companies to flourish and fail throughout the years. Microsoft has become synonymous with almost every computer made today and continues to be successful. Though, recently we have seen the emergence of another company that keeps taking market share away from Microsoft and that company is Apple. Whether it is through great marketing techniques, a great business model, or pure excitement for the next product they will introduce into the market. Apple has become the one computer company that is hard to ignore. Does anyone purchase a computer today without thinking of switching to an Apple? Probably not, but what does the company do to communicate its goal to the employees and how does Steve Jobs CEO of Apple communicate his goals back to the employees?
As I was researching how Apple communication throughout the organization works, I was struck by a MacWorld speech that Steve Jobs gave in 2008. The ability to look back on what the company accomplished in the previous year was uncanny. He seemed to be able to bring all the positives about what the company had accomplished and make sure that he sounded appreciative of the employees that were there watching him. Secondly, he was able to bring excitement about for a new product. It was a backup hard-drive with a wireless network adapter built in. In the world of technology that is not a new thing, but it was the software that went along with it. The software was called “Time Machine” and it allowed a customer to back-up files simply by turning Time Machine on, very easy I would say. Finally, it was his ability to bring excitement about. We know that Steve Jobs is a very successful CEO, but to get to that level one has to be a great communicator of a mission.
I believe that Steve Jobs does a great job at what he does. He appears to have a knack about what customers want and how to run a successful company. He knows how to communicate what he wants his employees to accomplish and what the customer wants to hear. I do not believe he is trying to make the biggest computer company; he just wants to make the best computer company. By making a product that consumers and employees believe in, he is accomplishing that goal.
References:
Singh, N., & Pereira, A. (2005). The Culturally Customized Web Site. Burlington, MA: Elsevier Butterworth-Heinemann.
Jobs, S. (Actor). (2008). MacWorld Conference [Online video]. Retrieved December 13, 2009, from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=owv3Z_WkHRY
Electronic Communication During Elections
“Political candidates’ Web sites function as news sources for a variety of information and news items that might not easily be available on a consistent basis through more traditional media such as newspapers and television.”
This quote is about internet communication regarding the 2008 presidential election. I found that this form of communication was very important during the election. Regardless of which candidate was using it, it became a resource of communication throughout the election. The Obama campaign used their website to try to fight against possible erroneous information. The McCain campaign used their website to try to show the positive information about Sarah Palin. Both campaigns had to fight against information that other media sources were reporting. Regardless of truth, the campaigns had to find a forum to combat information that would hurt the campaign. Communication of the truth became a full-time job for both campaigns. As very interested voters, my wife and I used these websites to help us as volunteers.
As the internet evolves, we have seen campaign websites become more important to voters. The websites are used for videos of the candidate communicating to voters, money donations, and fact checking. It was obvious at times during the election how important the communication to voters was. In fact, many people thought the reason the Obama campaign won was because of the ability for voters to communicate through the website. It offered ways for other voters to communicate through the website to get together. Phone call gatherings were done through the website using the internet to further connect people trying to communicate with other voters. The most interesting aspect of this type of communication was the information we received on Election Day. The campaigns were actually receiving up to the minute information about who had voted and who had not. This allowed the campaigns to try to get the voters out to the polls and all of this communication was done with the internet.
In the end, it is obvious that people are using the internet to communicate, learn, and decide on political campaigns. Whether or not people are deciding on who to vote for based on the internet is debatable, what is not debatable is that the internet is a huge source of communication from the candidates to the voters. When we look back someday, I am sure in will be obvious that these were the beginning days of something much bigger. I think that in the future, we will use internet communication more as a rule and less as a format of basic written communication. As we have seen with social websites, connecting people together is the next realm of the internet and communication and this is sure to become the future of the internet.
References
Pollard, T., Chesebro, J., & Studinski, D. (2009). The Role of the Internet in Presidential Campaigns. Communication Studies, 60(5), 574-588. doi:10.1080/10510970903260418.
This quote is about internet communication regarding the 2008 presidential election. I found that this form of communication was very important during the election. Regardless of which candidate was using it, it became a resource of communication throughout the election. The Obama campaign used their website to try to fight against possible erroneous information. The McCain campaign used their website to try to show the positive information about Sarah Palin. Both campaigns had to fight against information that other media sources were reporting. Regardless of truth, the campaigns had to find a forum to combat information that would hurt the campaign. Communication of the truth became a full-time job for both campaigns. As very interested voters, my wife and I used these websites to help us as volunteers.
As the internet evolves, we have seen campaign websites become more important to voters. The websites are used for videos of the candidate communicating to voters, money donations, and fact checking. It was obvious at times during the election how important the communication to voters was. In fact, many people thought the reason the Obama campaign won was because of the ability for voters to communicate through the website. It offered ways for other voters to communicate through the website to get together. Phone call gatherings were done through the website using the internet to further connect people trying to communicate with other voters. The most interesting aspect of this type of communication was the information we received on Election Day. The campaigns were actually receiving up to the minute information about who had voted and who had not. This allowed the campaigns to try to get the voters out to the polls and all of this communication was done with the internet.
In the end, it is obvious that people are using the internet to communicate, learn, and decide on political campaigns. Whether or not people are deciding on who to vote for based on the internet is debatable, what is not debatable is that the internet is a huge source of communication from the candidates to the voters. When we look back someday, I am sure in will be obvious that these were the beginning days of something much bigger. I think that in the future, we will use internet communication more as a rule and less as a format of basic written communication. As we have seen with social websites, connecting people together is the next realm of the internet and communication and this is sure to become the future of the internet.
References
Pollard, T., Chesebro, J., & Studinski, D. (2009). The Role of the Internet in Presidential Campaigns. Communication Studies, 60(5), 574-588. doi:10.1080/10510970903260418.
Cisco Systems
“Some of Cisco’s new products help break down barriers with business-to-business collaboration” - Leanne Schrotzberger Cisco Systems.
When the Internet was first introduced, most people had no idea how this new technology would affect our daily lives. Most people would not have envisioned that they would be able to do all their banking online. Nor would have thought they would be able to do most of their shopping on line, and in both cases within secure environments. Many banks are now offering a bill payment feature that allows you to pay bills online rather than sending a check through the mail. With the conception of the Internet and the higher speeds offered by Internet Service Providers (ISP), there have been many other advances in technology that allow one’s Internet connection to be used for much more than browsing web pages or downloading files. Let’s look at Cisco System’s and some of the tools they offer that use these innovations to encourage group collaborative communication among a company’s employees.
Cisco Systems is a company that offers cutting edge technology that can be used for many business applications. One of their main areas of focus is business collaboration and communication. Much of their new technology deals with businesses being able to communicate effectively, some of Cisco’s new products help break down barriers with “business-to-business collaboration” (2009, ¶ 2). One package offered by them is Cisco’s Tele-Presence. This package allows users to generate a live face-to-face meeting similar to simple video conferencing, but it also allows people to “share content, create high-quality video recordings and events, consult with experts and deliver powerful personalized services; all using the power of the network for an immersive in-person experience” (n.d., ¶ 3). Setting up a meeting is very simple and requires no Information Technology (IT) support. Starting a meeting is as easy as picking up the phone and making a call. The high quality makes people appear “lifelike and life-size” (¶ 4). Up to 48 locations can participate in a single meeting and “Collaboration applications are plug and play” (n.d., ¶ 4).
Another application that Cisco uses to foster collaboration is Unified Communicator (UC). This application provides a very high quality meeting like Tele- Presence, but it includes a high degree of security across any work space (n.d.). Cisco Unified Communications connects people, information, and teams, helping to enable comprehensive and effective collaborative experiences” (n.d. ¶ 1). It allows user companies to connect partners, vendors, co-workers, and their customers with the information and data they require. UC allows workers to be connected through a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) telephone systems, an Instant Messaging (IM) application, and also mobile devices, which allows employees to be productive anywhere in the world. UC also permits people to access and share video on a “desktop, on the road, and on-demand, as easily” as dialing a phone (n.d. ¶ 3). So not only does it offer conferencing, messaging, IP communications, mobile applications, but it also offers a high amount of customer care.
WebEx is another application Cisco designed that allows group collaborative communications. WebEx can be used for much more than just company meetings by offering broader needs for a business. There is no restriction on the type of computer system, platform, browser, or devices, in any country in the world (n.d). The application can be used for real-time meetings, webcasts, corporate instant messaging, and it can be used for training sessions. The training can be e-Learning or distance learning around the world (n.d.). The large benefit for a business is that WebEx also allows remote technical support attended or unattended (n.d.).
The items listed here are just a few of the many tools offered by Cisco Systems. As we have seen, some of the options include high quality video conference with either audio or video. Their other package “unified communicator” can handle voice and data traffic as well as instant messaging and mobile devices, all with improved security. It also allows a high degree of improved customer care. WebEx has many of the same features as the other two packages, but it also has no restrictions on the type of operating system or computer system used by the business. It also allows for company training and remote technical support either attended or unattended. As we can see, Cisco Systems offers a vast variety of products that improves group collaboration within the business community allowing a business to work in a more effective manner.
References
Cisco System’s. (n.d). Fostering Collaboration with Everyone, Everywhere. Retrieved December 8, 2009 from http://www.cisco.com/en/US/netsol/ns669/networking_solutions_solution_segment_home.html?POSITION=SEM&COUNTRY_SITE=us&CAMPAIGN=HN&CREATIVE=TelePresence&REFERRING_SITE=Google&KEYWORD=cisco+telepresence
Cisco System’s. (n.d). Gain Competitive Edge using Cisco WebEx Solution. Retrieved December 8, 2009 from http://www.cisco.com/en/US/solutions/ns990/webex_deployment.html
Cisco System’s. (n.d). New Communications Experience. Retrieved December 8, 2009 from
http://www.cisco.com/en/US/netsol/ns151/networking_solutions_unified_communications_home.html
CNNMoney.com. (November, 2009). Cisco Breaks Down Barriers to Business-to-Business Collaboration Retrieved November 2, 2009 from http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/marketwire/0556505.htm
When the Internet was first introduced, most people had no idea how this new technology would affect our daily lives. Most people would not have envisioned that they would be able to do all their banking online. Nor would have thought they would be able to do most of their shopping on line, and in both cases within secure environments. Many banks are now offering a bill payment feature that allows you to pay bills online rather than sending a check through the mail. With the conception of the Internet and the higher speeds offered by Internet Service Providers (ISP), there have been many other advances in technology that allow one’s Internet connection to be used for much more than browsing web pages or downloading files. Let’s look at Cisco System’s and some of the tools they offer that use these innovations to encourage group collaborative communication among a company’s employees.
Cisco Systems is a company that offers cutting edge technology that can be used for many business applications. One of their main areas of focus is business collaboration and communication. Much of their new technology deals with businesses being able to communicate effectively, some of Cisco’s new products help break down barriers with “business-to-business collaboration” (2009, ¶ 2). One package offered by them is Cisco’s Tele-Presence. This package allows users to generate a live face-to-face meeting similar to simple video conferencing, but it also allows people to “share content, create high-quality video recordings and events, consult with experts and deliver powerful personalized services; all using the power of the network for an immersive in-person experience” (n.d., ¶ 3). Setting up a meeting is very simple and requires no Information Technology (IT) support. Starting a meeting is as easy as picking up the phone and making a call. The high quality makes people appear “lifelike and life-size” (¶ 4). Up to 48 locations can participate in a single meeting and “Collaboration applications are plug and play” (n.d., ¶ 4).
Another application that Cisco uses to foster collaboration is Unified Communicator (UC). This application provides a very high quality meeting like Tele- Presence, but it includes a high degree of security across any work space (n.d.). Cisco Unified Communications connects people, information, and teams, helping to enable comprehensive and effective collaborative experiences” (n.d. ¶ 1). It allows user companies to connect partners, vendors, co-workers, and their customers with the information and data they require. UC allows workers to be connected through a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) telephone systems, an Instant Messaging (IM) application, and also mobile devices, which allows employees to be productive anywhere in the world. UC also permits people to access and share video on a “desktop, on the road, and on-demand, as easily” as dialing a phone (n.d. ¶ 3). So not only does it offer conferencing, messaging, IP communications, mobile applications, but it also offers a high amount of customer care.
WebEx is another application Cisco designed that allows group collaborative communications. WebEx can be used for much more than just company meetings by offering broader needs for a business. There is no restriction on the type of computer system, platform, browser, or devices, in any country in the world (n.d). The application can be used for real-time meetings, webcasts, corporate instant messaging, and it can be used for training sessions. The training can be e-Learning or distance learning around the world (n.d.). The large benefit for a business is that WebEx also allows remote technical support attended or unattended (n.d.).
The items listed here are just a few of the many tools offered by Cisco Systems. As we have seen, some of the options include high quality video conference with either audio or video. Their other package “unified communicator” can handle voice and data traffic as well as instant messaging and mobile devices, all with improved security. It also allows a high degree of improved customer care. WebEx has many of the same features as the other two packages, but it also has no restrictions on the type of operating system or computer system used by the business. It also allows for company training and remote technical support either attended or unattended. As we can see, Cisco Systems offers a vast variety of products that improves group collaboration within the business community allowing a business to work in a more effective manner.
References
Cisco System’s. (n.d). Fostering Collaboration with Everyone, Everywhere. Retrieved December 8, 2009 from http://www.cisco.com/en/US/netsol/ns669/networking_solutions_solution_segment_home.html?POSITION=SEM&COUNTRY_SITE=us&CAMPAIGN=HN&CREATIVE=TelePresence&REFERRING_SITE=Google&KEYWORD=cisco+telepresence
Cisco System’s. (n.d). Gain Competitive Edge using Cisco WebEx Solution. Retrieved December 8, 2009 from http://www.cisco.com/en/US/solutions/ns990/webex_deployment.html
Cisco System’s. (n.d). New Communications Experience. Retrieved December 8, 2009 from
http://www.cisco.com/en/US/netsol/ns151/networking_solutions_unified_communications_home.html
CNNMoney.com. (November, 2009). Cisco Breaks Down Barriers to Business-to-Business Collaboration Retrieved November 2, 2009 from http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/marketwire/0556505.htm
Using Technology to Collaborate
The high tech implementations of Intel's creations/upgrades have changed, and will indubitably continue to influence, the way individuals communicate around the world. Intel remains a major cornerstone in the advancement of universal technologies. "Technological advances resulting from global pioneering collaborations establish and maintain the highest level of standards-based innovation." (Intel, n.d., ¶ 1)
"Intel has refocused its efforts to get a better toehold in new markets, particularly those for smart phones, netbooks, and other mobile Internet devices. The emerging vessel of choice is the system-on-chip (SoC) hardware. It will be less power hungry and capable of doing graphics processing, complex wireless communication, and on-chip temperature sensing, as well as general number crunching and memory management. (Technology Review, 2009, ¶ 1)
This eco-friendly, consumer ready ideology has the potential to offer consumers more effective opportunities to communicate within a group collaborative. I think platforms like Intel Architecture-Based Media Phone systems, Intel Core processors and InTru 3D further facilitate technologically advanced environments to promote group interconnection.
Consumer's voracious desires to own the latest upgradable and backward compatible technological gadgets will continue to inspire Intel to meet and exceed consumer communication demands. "Intel's global infrastructure relies on the stability and consistent interoperability between devices." (Intel, n.d., ¶ 1) Intel has enjoyed longevity for decades by being flexible and thoughtful in their product line creation. Based on past reliability and current development, I would imagine that Intel will continue to be around for decades to come.
References
Intel. (n.d.). Technology: standards and initiatives. Retrieved December 4, 2009
http://www.intel.com/standards/index.htm?iid=tech_home+body_standards
Technology Review. (2009). Intel's new breed of chips. Retrieved December 4, 2009
http://www.technologyreview.com/computing/22068/?a=f
"Intel has refocused its efforts to get a better toehold in new markets, particularly those for smart phones, netbooks, and other mobile Internet devices. The emerging vessel of choice is the system-on-chip (SoC) hardware. It will be less power hungry and capable of doing graphics processing, complex wireless communication, and on-chip temperature sensing, as well as general number crunching and memory management. (Technology Review, 2009, ¶ 1)
This eco-friendly, consumer ready ideology has the potential to offer consumers more effective opportunities to communicate within a group collaborative. I think platforms like Intel Architecture-Based Media Phone systems, Intel Core processors and InTru 3D further facilitate technologically advanced environments to promote group interconnection.
Consumer's voracious desires to own the latest upgradable and backward compatible technological gadgets will continue to inspire Intel to meet and exceed consumer communication demands. "Intel's global infrastructure relies on the stability and consistent interoperability between devices." (Intel, n.d., ¶ 1) Intel has enjoyed longevity for decades by being flexible and thoughtful in their product line creation. Based on past reliability and current development, I would imagine that Intel will continue to be around for decades to come.
References
Intel. (n.d.). Technology: standards and initiatives. Retrieved December 4, 2009
http://www.intel.com/standards/index.htm?iid=tech_home+body_standards
Technology Review. (2009). Intel's new breed of chips. Retrieved December 4, 2009
http://www.technologyreview.com/computing/22068/?a=f
Election/Campaign Use of Internet
"'They made online the central nervous system for their organization; smart brands are going to start doing this,' said Pete Snyder, co-founder and CEO of New Media Strategies." (ESBCO, 2009)
Internet usage was of great assistance in revolutionizing the election of 2008. Regardless of political affiliation, reaching and motivating current and potential base members to vote by way of user friendly projected messages, on such massive scales, are increasingly necessary towards successful campaigning in America. It is one thing to create a blurb but quite another to organize and launch an intelligent technology blitz. I would venture to say that both U.S. major party presidential candidates were successful in their attempts to connect to a broader America in effort to realize victory in the election process. The use of texting, social sites [Facebook, Twitter, You Tube etc…] and email are key components that were strategically tapped into to aid the U.S. presidential candidates in their quests to become the 44th president of the United States of America. I believe those and updated technological advances will become the fundamental tools used to steadily excite, enlighten and entertain its political users for decades to come. I also think launching personal campaign appeals via those technological resources have and will certainly continue to have a radical impact on future campaigns in the U.S. on local, national and international levels. The phasing out of less than cost effective marketing campaigns while still being able to positively influence base momentum remains, in my opinion, a win win scenario in the political process.
Reference
EBSCO. (2009). Social media paves way to whitehouse. Retrieved November 19, 2009
http://web.ebscohost.com.dml.regis.edu/ehost/detail?vid=4&hid=6&sid=16933e99-49fb-465e-8598-d07f9c6b8dce%40sessionmgr12&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=aph&AN=37280974
Internet usage was of great assistance in revolutionizing the election of 2008. Regardless of political affiliation, reaching and motivating current and potential base members to vote by way of user friendly projected messages, on such massive scales, are increasingly necessary towards successful campaigning in America. It is one thing to create a blurb but quite another to organize and launch an intelligent technology blitz. I would venture to say that both U.S. major party presidential candidates were successful in their attempts to connect to a broader America in effort to realize victory in the election process. The use of texting, social sites [Facebook, Twitter, You Tube etc…] and email are key components that were strategically tapped into to aid the U.S. presidential candidates in their quests to become the 44th president of the United States of America. I believe those and updated technological advances will become the fundamental tools used to steadily excite, enlighten and entertain its political users for decades to come. I also think launching personal campaign appeals via those technological resources have and will certainly continue to have a radical impact on future campaigns in the U.S. on local, national and international levels. The phasing out of less than cost effective marketing campaigns while still being able to positively influence base momentum remains, in my opinion, a win win scenario in the political process.
Reference
EBSCO. (2009). Social media paves way to whitehouse. Retrieved November 19, 2009
http://web.ebscohost.com.dml.regis.edu/ehost/detail?vid=4&hid=6&sid=16933e99-49fb-465e-8598-d07f9c6b8dce%40sessionmgr12&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=aph&AN=37280974
“Google”
Ryan Davis
Google has successfully utilized today’s technology to their full advantage. With Google using PageRank™ which is how they get us our search results so fast and accurately. They also keep their site up to date and they always have a different design for their name. They also have blackle.com which reaches out and appeals to energy conscious individuals.
We have all seen these companies that come from left field and are a huge hit. Well a lot of their success depends on how well they are able to appeal and communicate with the community. Google came in at the right time while other search engines would give you useless results that have nothing to do with what you typed in; Google developed a program called PageRank™ which is a system for ranking web pages. While other web pages rely heavily on how many times a word appears on a page, Google uses a ranking system in which each webpage has votes and votes count for different values to include hypertext matching.
Google is also working with Open Handset Alliance to develop a complete open, free and mobile platform to develop Android which will give people access to all the information they need anywhere anytime. Yet another example of how they are connecting the world’s information at just a click of your mouse or finger. This is why Google has been so successful they sell their product to all demographics because we all at one time or another have “Googled.”
References:
http://www.google.com/corporate/tech.html
http://www.google.com/technology/pigeonrank.html (Funny rip off of “PageRank.”)
Ryan Davis
Google has successfully utilized today’s technology to their full advantage. With Google using PageRank™ which is how they get us our search results so fast and accurately. They also keep their site up to date and they always have a different design for their name. They also have blackle.com which reaches out and appeals to energy conscious individuals.
We have all seen these companies that come from left field and are a huge hit. Well a lot of their success depends on how well they are able to appeal and communicate with the community. Google came in at the right time while other search engines would give you useless results that have nothing to do with what you typed in; Google developed a program called PageRank™ which is a system for ranking web pages. While other web pages rely heavily on how many times a word appears on a page, Google uses a ranking system in which each webpage has votes and votes count for different values to include hypertext matching.
Google is also working with Open Handset Alliance to develop a complete open, free and mobile platform to develop Android which will give people access to all the information they need anywhere anytime. Yet another example of how they are connecting the world’s information at just a click of your mouse or finger. This is why Google has been so successful they sell their product to all demographics because we all at one time or another have “Googled.”
References:
http://www.google.com/corporate/tech.html
http://www.google.com/technology/pigeonrank.html (Funny rip off of “PageRank.”)
Obama
"Tens of thousands of young people downloaded voter-registration forms on Facebook; when a supporter used Obama's phone-bank tool to call undecided voters, it appeared in her friend feed." By Michael Learmonth
With social networking sites be so popular, it is no wonder Obama used this as a tool during his campaign. He potentially won the election because of how many millions if not billions of people he reached out to with using Facebook or Myspace. There is so much potential to get your name out there with these sites. There have been many musical artist who became famous because they posted their music to their myspace page and would link it to music producers to listen to. Some might say it replaced sending a recording on a tape of your music to music producers.
With these sites being so easy to keep in touch with family and friends. You have to be careful about what you post to them. Do not post any personnel information you do not want the whole world to know. If you do your research you can easily start a business or advertise on these sites and be seen by millions of people. The possibilities are endless with what you can do on Myspace or Facebook. President Obama was very smart for using this as a way to reach out and touch people for their support during his campaign.
With social networking sites be so popular, it is no wonder Obama used this as a tool during his campaign. He potentially won the election because of how many millions if not billions of people he reached out to with using Facebook or Myspace. There is so much potential to get your name out there with these sites. There have been many musical artist who became famous because they posted their music to their myspace page and would link it to music producers to listen to. Some might say it replaced sending a recording on a tape of your music to music producers.
With these sites being so easy to keep in touch with family and friends. You have to be careful about what you post to them. Do not post any personnel information you do not want the whole world to know. If you do your research you can easily start a business or advertise on these sites and be seen by millions of people. The possibilities are endless with what you can do on Myspace or Facebook. President Obama was very smart for using this as a way to reach out and touch people for their support during his campaign.
There's an App for That
--Ian Lynch Smith
The Apple App Store is changing mobile computing. Smart phones are becoming the “Swiss Army Knives” of the digital age due to the large amount of information and applications available at your fingertips. (Wortham, 2009)
The App Store has applications for everything from email and text-messaging to games, maps, and even wireless keys to remotely unlock cars. If you are looking for an application for your iPhone or iPod Touch, chances are the App Store has it. There are more than 10,000 developers, over 100,000 applications, and there have been more than 2 billion application downloads since the App Store opened in 2008.
Apple has been very supportive of developers who were once shunned by large telecommunications companies. What used to take hundreds of thousands of dollars and months of time to develop for an individual phone vendor can now be done in a matter of a couple of months and for very little overhead through the App Store.
Apple reviews all of the applications that are submitted to help prevent malicious software and preserve the stability of the devices. With more than 10,000 submissions each week that process can take some time to be completed. The goal is to have the review process completed and the application available on the App Store within 2 weeks. Even though a review of the software is necessary, the process has come under scrutiny. Apple is currently involved in an FCC investigation due to its decision to reject an application by Google. This has caused critics to question whether or not Apple will maintain a fair marketplace.
Apple’s App Store has helped create a new digital world where everyone from a weekend hobbyist to a professional software developer can have the opportunity to make money on the iPhone. Analysts estimate the App Store generates as much as a billion dollars a year in revenue for Apple and the developers. Jim Balsille, co-chief executive of Research in Motion, the maker of the BlackBerry smart phones, says, “It’s inevitable that all cell phones will be smart phones. There will be more services and new ways to monetize and more consumption. Growth is a given; it’s just a question of who is going to innovate in the right way to drive that value proposition to capture that growth.” It certainly appears Apple has found a way to capture the growth. There’s an app for that.
Wortham, J. (2009, December 6). Apple's Game Changer, Downloading Now. Retrieved December 6, 2009, from The New York Times: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/06/technology/06apps.html?_r=1&adxnnl=1&adxnnlx=1260126251-iksGv9RVpZx8gRpN1/3efg
Qualcomm
Qualcomm chose to take a different approach from traditional wireless standards. In 1989, the company introduced Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA). This is an improved technology for wireless and data products that changed the global face of wireless communications forever (Qualcomm History, 2009). Code division multiple access (CDMA) is a channel access method utilized by various radio communication technologies. CDMA is what the wireless provider I work for uses today.
Qualcomm is a company with vision in both technology and how the world communicates by providing people a better way to stay in touch where they work and live. This company continues to create new and innovative products for consumers around the world. Qualcomm is currently embracing a next generation network technology called Long Term Evolution (LTE), a 4G broadband technology (Reuters, 2008).
Qualcomm has been recognized for many industry awards. Its corporate success includes; Fortune’s Most Admired Companies since 2002. Qualcomm has been voted Computerworld’s 100 Best Places to Work in IT since 2004. The company won PC Magazine’s 2008, Technology Excellence Award. Qualcomm continues to be in the forefront of the environmental movement, winning recognition for the Uptime Institutes 2009 Global Green 100, which honors companies’ energy efficient efforts by decreasing their carbon footprint. By staying focused in the technological arena and being mindful of the environment at the same time makes Qualcomm a world class leader.
I believe this pioneering, innovative and collaborative spirit has allowed Qualcomm to expand the boundaries of technology, while making changes in the world that provide more economical resources. This organization does not rest on its laurels, but continues to build a solid company through research, development and collaboration within the telecommunication industry.
References
Woyke, E. (2009, Jan 07). Qualcomm Could Shine At CES. retrieved from Forbes website:_http://www.forbes.com/2009/01/07/ces-qualcomm-broadband-tech-wire-cx_ew_0107qualcomm.html (retrieved December 2, 2009).
Qualcomm. (n.d). Retrieved from website: http://www.qualcomm.com/who_we_are/history/index.html (retrieved December 1, 2009)
LeClaire, J. (2006, Jan 06). Qualcomm, Samsung to Demo Mobile-TV Tech for Cell Phones from technewsworld website:_ http://www.technewsworld.com/story/48113.html?wlc=1259904852 (retrieved December 1, 2009).
Carew, S. (2008, Nov. 13). Reuters retrieved from website:_http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSN1335969420081113?rpc=401&
(retrieved December 7, 2009).
Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company
With all of this turmoil, how did Ford succeed? For many years the three major American car companies have endured financial losses. In 2009 Chrysler filed chapter 11 bankruptcy and also acquired US$6.6 billion in government bailout funds. Chrysler’s sales from January 2009, through October 2009, have declined by 39%. General Motors filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2009, and now the United States Treasury and Canadian government own majority stock for General Motors. This was an investment of US$57.6 billion from the United States Government. The last of the “Big three” auto companies is Ford Motor Company. Ford, at first, attempted to work with United States lawmakers, in collaboration of General Motors and Chrysler, to secure financial aid. This attempt failed and Ford decided not to accept bailout funds and work affective robust plans to reduce their debt. Because of this financial strategy Ford has been able to post almost US$1 billion profit this last quarter.
For Ford to recover financially it was critical that Ford did not accept bailout funds. This allowed Ford to continue to spend monies where the others had to cut back and hold cash while waiting for bailout funds. But what Ford’s major accomplishment was to take advantage of the negative impression of the other auto makers.
Ford launched many collaborative initiatives. The first was Ford Motor Company’s board worked with bondholders to reduce their debt. Foremost, Ford began in collaborating with multiple companies that would enhance their product. One of such companies was Best Buy. An unlikely company to collaborate with but Ford worked with 30 Best Buy locations to pilot a program to enhance safety and in-car connectivity systems called SYNC. SYNC gives the owner abilities to get turn-by-turn directions, 911 assistance, vehicle health reports, news, sports, weather updates, real time traffic reports and business searches.
Ford has overcome many obstacles to move forward as a profitable company once again. In my opinion Ford has set forth an abundance of collaborative efforts that has economically profited Ford but has also made them listen to the end user.
Reference:
Chrysler. (n.d). In Wikipedia. Retrieved December 2, 2009, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrysler
General Motors. (n.d). In Wikipedia. Retrieved December 2, 2009, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_Motors
Ford Motor Company. (n.d). Retrieved December 2, 2009, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Motor_Company
Vlasic, B (2009, October 10). For Car Buyers, the Brand Romance Is Gone. Retrieved December 2, 2009 from The New York Times website: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/21/business/21auto.html?_r=2&scp=10&sq=&st=nyt
Ford, Best Buy Matchup Drives Increased Consideration for Ford Products, (n.d.) Retrieved December 2, 2009, from Ford Motor Company official website: http://www.ford.com/about-ford/news-announcements/press-releases/press-releases-detail/pr-ford-best-buy-matchup-drives-31503
About SYNC, (n.d). Retrieved December 2, 2009, from Ford Motor Company official website: http://www.fordvehicles.com/innovation/sync/about/
High Tech Communications over Wireless Technologies.
“CLEAR is excited to bring to North Carolina residents, businesses and visitors an Internet experience similar to what they’re used to having at home or the office, anywhere around town or on the go,” said Michael Nash, regional general manager for North Carolina. (Clearwire, 2009)
Clearwire is a new up and coming 4G wireless provider. They started out in the West Coast and have slowly built up network infrastructures all over the country focusing on Tier 1 markets (Baltimore, New York, Chicago, Detroit, Charlotte, etc) to start. Clearwire has developed and is using technology to provide more available internet connections to everyone. The use of cellular technology is able to bridge traditional wired carrier boundaries. As a result, you can have access to the internet throughout an area regardless of whether or not it is serviced by Verizon, Comcast, Windstream, etc. It also reduces the need for multiple internet connection accounts. You can use the same carrier at home and at the office or even a local coffee shop.
People have become used to this accessibility of Internet connections wherever they go. They can get on the Internet at McDonalds, Barnes and Nobles, the malls, and even most coffee shops. Providing the ability to get Internet access in areas that don’t provide local wireless access makes a company like Clearwire even more attractive. With this technology, users can be anywhere and get on the Internet at speeds they are used to at the office or home without having to pay for multiple services. This level of access makes individuals, companies, and families even more productive and efficient regardless of location.
Clearwire (2009, December 1). Clearwire opens retail stores and expands sales for clear(tm) 4g mobile internet service in North Carolina. Retrieved from http://newsroom.clearwire.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=214419&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1360322&highlight=
Clearwire is a new up and coming 4G wireless provider. They started out in the West Coast and have slowly built up network infrastructures all over the country focusing on Tier 1 markets (Baltimore, New York, Chicago, Detroit, Charlotte, etc) to start. Clearwire has developed and is using technology to provide more available internet connections to everyone. The use of cellular technology is able to bridge traditional wired carrier boundaries. As a result, you can have access to the internet throughout an area regardless of whether or not it is serviced by Verizon, Comcast, Windstream, etc. It also reduces the need for multiple internet connection accounts. You can use the same carrier at home and at the office or even a local coffee shop.
People have become used to this accessibility of Internet connections wherever they go. They can get on the Internet at McDonalds, Barnes and Nobles, the malls, and even most coffee shops. Providing the ability to get Internet access in areas that don’t provide local wireless access makes a company like Clearwire even more attractive. With this technology, users can be anywhere and get on the Internet at speeds they are used to at the office or home without having to pay for multiple services. This level of access makes individuals, companies, and families even more productive and efficient regardless of location.
Clearwire (2009, December 1). Clearwire opens retail stores and expands sales for clear(tm) 4g mobile internet service in North Carolina. Retrieved from http://newsroom.clearwire.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=214419&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1360322&highlight=
Nintendo©: Technologically Collaboratively Brilliant
“At Nintendo we are proud to be working for the leading company in our industry. We are strongly committed to producing and marketing the best products and support services available. We believe it is essential not only to provide products of the highest quality, but to treat every customer with attention, consideration and respect. By listening closely to our customers, we constantly improve our products and services.
We feel an equal commitment toward our employees. We want to maintain an atmosphere in which talented individuals can work together as a team. Commitment and enthusiasm are crucial to the high quality of our products and support services. We believe in treating our employees with the same consideration and respect that we, as a company, show our customers (Nintendo of America, 2009).”
Nintendo© was introduced to America in 1985. The Nintendo© Entertainment System was an immediate hit. In some cases this was the first time a system like this was brought into people’s homes. After Nintendo’s big hit in 1985, they did it again in 2006 with the new interactive, innovative, amazing gaming system, Nintendo Wii©. The Nintendo Wii© is not only an interactive system it connects via wireless internet to allow users to interact with individuals all over the world creating a bond with individuals we have never met.
In my opinion, Nintendo© has not only created the neatest gaming system technologically but it has also assisted in the need for people to remain active. Nintendo has cornered the market in listening to what the world needs. In America, the overwhelming numbers of obesity and other health problems have increased at an alarming rate but Nintendo© did its research in trying to create a healthier world. Even though it is a gaming system it requires not only hand-eye coordination but real-time body movement to thoroughly enjoy this gaming experience.
Nintendo’s mission and philosophy statement says worlds of how about important it is to not only listen to its customers but its employees to create incredible, collaborative products that not only corner technology but impress any user. Their products are user-friendly, extremely innovated and not at an extreme cost compared to other gaming systems. Nintendo’s products are made for any individual, they do not simply cater to one age group, gender, or ability; any person can enjoy these games which is collaboratively brilliant.
Reference:
Nintendo of America (2009). Company history. Retrieved from http://www.nintendo.com/corp /history.jsp
We feel an equal commitment toward our employees. We want to maintain an atmosphere in which talented individuals can work together as a team. Commitment and enthusiasm are crucial to the high quality of our products and support services. We believe in treating our employees with the same consideration and respect that we, as a company, show our customers (Nintendo of America, 2009).”
Nintendo© was introduced to America in 1985. The Nintendo© Entertainment System was an immediate hit. In some cases this was the first time a system like this was brought into people’s homes. After Nintendo’s big hit in 1985, they did it again in 2006 with the new interactive, innovative, amazing gaming system, Nintendo Wii©. The Nintendo Wii© is not only an interactive system it connects via wireless internet to allow users to interact with individuals all over the world creating a bond with individuals we have never met.
In my opinion, Nintendo© has not only created the neatest gaming system technologically but it has also assisted in the need for people to remain active. Nintendo has cornered the market in listening to what the world needs. In America, the overwhelming numbers of obesity and other health problems have increased at an alarming rate but Nintendo© did its research in trying to create a healthier world. Even though it is a gaming system it requires not only hand-eye coordination but real-time body movement to thoroughly enjoy this gaming experience.
Nintendo’s mission and philosophy statement says worlds of how about important it is to not only listen to its customers but its employees to create incredible, collaborative products that not only corner technology but impress any user. Their products are user-friendly, extremely innovated and not at an extreme cost compared to other gaming systems. Nintendo’s products are made for any individual, they do not simply cater to one age group, gender, or ability; any person can enjoy these games which is collaboratively brilliant.
Reference:
Nintendo of America (2009). Company history. Retrieved from http://www.nintendo.com/corp /history.jsp
Yahoo Groups
“Friends, I have noticed lately that we've been exchanging many ideas about kites, as well as announcements about events in the coming season. I knew that there could be a more efficient way of exchanging our ideas via email so that everyone gets to participate without having to maintain lengthy address lists. I already knew about some of the exciting things people were doing with so called "virtual communities", so I decided to look into it further. Most of the search engine companies offer free services to any sort of club and many free virtual communities exist on the www.
-Mark Kunoff, Hoosier Kitefliers Society
This quick note by this gentleman to all of his Kiteflier colleagues is an example of how Yahoo saw a need for online collaboration and capitalized on it. In June of 2000, Yahoo acquired an online group collaboration platform company called egroups. Yahoo was able to boost its communications offering, including mail, messenger and clubs according to Larry Dignan Staff Writer, CNET News. In this way, Yahoo provides the ability for massive mailing lists or discussion groups to be formed in an easy manageable way. Anyone can search and find a group they would like to subscribe to, or create a group of their own. Collaboration and communication to the masses becomes quick and efficient.
Developing a group is easy, it only requires that you specify public or private membership and choose a newsletter-only type membership or a collaborative membership. Once you've set up the basics, you need to add members to your group. You can do this by either sending out a blast email invitation, or entering members yourself. If the size of the group is too large then this can be somewhat of a deterrent. This has been a great way for associations or organizations to share information and collaborate on a large scale. For example, there is a group call Ruthie’s List developed by a human resources practitioner whereby job leads and information is shared pertaining to the human resources industry/function. This group has over 3000 members who share this common interest and association.
Sources
CNET News – Larry Dignan, April 2001,http://news.cnet.com/Yahoo-acquires-privately-held-eGroups/2100-12_3-259494.htmlWikipedia – The History of Yahoo – accessed on December 1, 2009
-Mark Kunoff, Hoosier Kitefliers Society
This quick note by this gentleman to all of his Kiteflier colleagues is an example of how Yahoo saw a need for online collaboration and capitalized on it. In June of 2000, Yahoo acquired an online group collaboration platform company called egroups. Yahoo was able to boost its communications offering, including mail, messenger and clubs according to Larry Dignan Staff Writer, CNET News. In this way, Yahoo provides the ability for massive mailing lists or discussion groups to be formed in an easy manageable way. Anyone can search and find a group they would like to subscribe to, or create a group of their own. Collaboration and communication to the masses becomes quick and efficient.
Developing a group is easy, it only requires that you specify public or private membership and choose a newsletter-only type membership or a collaborative membership. Once you've set up the basics, you need to add members to your group. You can do this by either sending out a blast email invitation, or entering members yourself. If the size of the group is too large then this can be somewhat of a deterrent. This has been a great way for associations or organizations to share information and collaborate on a large scale. For example, there is a group call Ruthie’s List developed by a human resources practitioner whereby job leads and information is shared pertaining to the human resources industry/function. This group has over 3000 members who share this common interest and association.
Sources
CNET News – Larry Dignan, April 2001,http://news.cnet.com/Yahoo-acquires-privately-held-eGroups/2100-12_3-259494.htmlWikipedia – The History of Yahoo – accessed on December 1, 2009
Facebook
Recently facebook reached 350 million profiles and shows no sign of slowing down. Facebook has provided an accessible and easy way for people to keep in touch with friends and family, for parents to become involved with their children and to get to know them better, and for business and associations to open communications with their clientele. Facebook has created an entire new way to search for information or recommendations by using word of mouth type of collaborations. And finally facebook is experimenting with advertisement and endorsements by monitoring products purchased on the internet and reporting that to the purchasers ‘friend’ list.
Facebook was created by Mark Zuckerbert in 2004 while he was a college student at Harvard University. Facebook is designed to be a social networking site, but it has become much more than that, it is a worldwide social phenomenon. Facebook started out for Harvard University Students only, its popularity was immediately evident within the first week. Within a few months demand was so great, facebook was available to other Ivy League Colleges, and soon after that, all colleges. Students found the networking so addictive soon the eligibility was expanded to high school networks. In 2006 the network was opened up to adults and a whole new purpose came to light – finding old school friends. Parents also discovered they could ‘communicate’, monitor, and network with their own children. The newest use of the networking site is companies and club setting up networks amongst their clients and members.
Search sites such as Google and Yahoo could be compromised by facebook in the future. The article by 60 Minutes goes on to give an example that if you search for information about a specific vacation, you will come back with a list of hits, most likely more than necessary and not all relevant to your search. However if you post a request on facebook, you would get word of mouth responses about personal experiences. This most likely would be far more helpful and personal to your inquiry than hits generated by search engine.
Facebook has also experimented with advertising and sharing with friends what people purchase. This is an interesting approach to product endorsements. Basically by showing people what people they know are actually buying. Culturally this provides personal assurances and you can get personal feedback for confidence in selecting an item. There have been drawbacks to the initial program called “Beacon” which inadvertently revealed purchases intended as surprise gifts, however they are working on new privacy options which will help offset some of the initial drawbacks.
Bibliography
Common Sense Media. (2009). Facebook. San Franscio: Common Sense Media.
TopTenREVIEWS. (2009). Social Networking Websites Review. Ogden: TopTenREVIEWS.
Zuckerberg, M. (2008, January 13). The Face Behind Facebook. (L. Stahl, Interviewer)
Recently facebook reached 350 million profiles and shows no sign of slowing down. Facebook has provided an accessible and easy way for people to keep in touch with friends and family, for parents to become involved with their children and to get to know them better, and for business and associations to open communications with their clientele. Facebook has created an entire new way to search for information or recommendations by using word of mouth type of collaborations. And finally facebook is experimenting with advertisement and endorsements by monitoring products purchased on the internet and reporting that to the purchasers ‘friend’ list.
Facebook was created by Mark Zuckerbert in 2004 while he was a college student at Harvard University. Facebook is designed to be a social networking site, but it has become much more than that, it is a worldwide social phenomenon. Facebook started out for Harvard University Students only, its popularity was immediately evident within the first week. Within a few months demand was so great, facebook was available to other Ivy League Colleges, and soon after that, all colleges. Students found the networking so addictive soon the eligibility was expanded to high school networks. In 2006 the network was opened up to adults and a whole new purpose came to light – finding old school friends. Parents also discovered they could ‘communicate’, monitor, and network with their own children. The newest use of the networking site is companies and club setting up networks amongst their clients and members.
Search sites such as Google and Yahoo could be compromised by facebook in the future. The article by 60 Minutes goes on to give an example that if you search for information about a specific vacation, you will come back with a list of hits, most likely more than necessary and not all relevant to your search. However if you post a request on facebook, you would get word of mouth responses about personal experiences. This most likely would be far more helpful and personal to your inquiry than hits generated by search engine.
Facebook has also experimented with advertising and sharing with friends what people purchase. This is an interesting approach to product endorsements. Basically by showing people what people they know are actually buying. Culturally this provides personal assurances and you can get personal feedback for confidence in selecting an item. There have been drawbacks to the initial program called “Beacon” which inadvertently revealed purchases intended as surprise gifts, however they are working on new privacy options which will help offset some of the initial drawbacks.
Bibliography
Common Sense Media. (2009). Facebook. San Franscio: Common Sense Media.
TopTenREVIEWS. (2009). Social Networking Websites Review. Ogden: TopTenREVIEWS.
Zuckerberg, M. (2008, January 13). The Face Behind Facebook. (L. Stahl, Interviewer)
Native Language and Internet Usage
Quote:
“To the extent, however, that the younger generation drives the dynamics of the internet, the results provide some support for the hypothesis that English will retain its first-mover advantage on the internet. In such a case, as the youngest native French-speaking user’s age, they will continue to use the internet intensively in English”- Professor Neil Gandal, Harold Hartog School of Government and Policy, Tel Aviv University.
In the article “Native Language and Internet Usage” the conclusion of the article was that although many internet users may look at website
s, younger generations typically look at English websites, which will result in English keeping its place as the primary language on the Internet. I believe that this is a false statement. I feel that the people who speak other languages mainly use English websites simply because there is more information that is easier to find on them.
“To the extent, however, that the younger generation drives the dynamics of the internet, the results provide some support for the hypothesis that English will retain its first-mover advantage on the internet. In such a case, as the youngest native French-speaking user’s age, they will continue to use the internet intensively in English”- Professor Neil Gandal, Harold Hartog School of Government and Policy, Tel Aviv University.
In the article “Native Language and Internet Usage” the conclusion of the article was that although many internet users may look at website
s, younger generations typically look at English websites, which will result in English keeping its place as the primary language on the Internet. I believe that this is a false statement. I feel that the people who speak other languages mainly use English websites simply because there is more information that is easier to find on them.
America is a prosperous nation that has developed much of today’s technology in communication. Because of this we use mainly English in much of our internet communication especially on social websites. People from other nations may use out social networks such as Facebook, but more often than not they are able to have it translated into their own native languages. This is also true for those looking into retail, such as McDonald’s. On their website you can see McDonald’s and how they differ throughout the world. The reason for these differences is that it personalizes the American franchise to appeal to the consumers of other nations. Therefore, my conclusion is that though American websites maybe more commonly used, they are not always kept Americanized. They are made into a branch of the American website that is based in the culture of the user.
References
Gandal, Neil "Native language and Internet usage"; Lang 182 (2006), p25-40, 5p. (Retrieved from ESBCO Regis University, November 17, 2009).
Communicating in Cyberspace: Have We Lost Our Personal Touch?
“I calculated the total time that humans have waited for web pages to load. It cancels out all the productivity gains of the information age. Sometimes I think the web is a big plot to keep people like me away from normal society.” ~Scott Adams
Technology has made our lives incredibly simple, but what has happened to customer service? Customer service is now voice activated, and simply hitting zero is no longer an option. It is a shame that the more we contact our doctor’s office and other organizations, the more we become confused with which buttons to hit. And then if you are lucky enough to find a representative to speak with the chances of you understanding the conversation is minimal. My personal favorite is when a customer service representative states his name is “Bob” when there is absolutely no way his name is even close to these three letters.
So, has technology really made our lives simple or has it simply enhanced our lazy genes? Sure we can pop onto the web to find a location, transfer funds, type an e-mail to family, and find out who is popular on You Tube; but what happened to common courtesies and common language? We used to send cards in the mail to say I love you, or that I am thinking about you but now we just hit "reply all" and all the niceties have turned into indescribable acronyms.
Customer service and common courtesies seem something of the past. We are just too busy as Americans, doing what I have no idea! We do not even have time to take off from work when we are sick, and it seems to be more of an inconvenience even when the kids need a day of rest; but no worries we always have our laptops, smart phones, and other technological devices that keep us connected. Can you imagine a day without checking your phone, keeping up with e-mails, or simply enjoy the simple things like board games, and taking a walk? It probably seems a bit boring, doesn’t it?
Technology has made our lives incredibly simple, but what has happened to customer service? Customer service is now voice activated, and simply hitting zero is no longer an option. It is a shame that the more we contact our doctor’s office and other organizations, the more we become confused with which buttons to hit. And then if you are lucky enough to find a representative to speak with the chances of you understanding the conversation is minimal. My personal favorite is when a customer service representative states his name is “Bob” when there is absolutely no way his name is even close to these three letters.
So, has technology really made our lives simple or has it simply enhanced our lazy genes? Sure we can pop onto the web to find a location, transfer funds, type an e-mail to family, and find out who is popular on You Tube; but what happened to common courtesies and common language? We used to send cards in the mail to say I love you, or that I am thinking about you but now we just hit "reply all" and all the niceties have turned into indescribable acronyms.
Customer service and common courtesies seem something of the past. We are just too busy as Americans, doing what I have no idea! We do not even have time to take off from work when we are sick, and it seems to be more of an inconvenience even when the kids need a day of rest; but no worries we always have our laptops, smart phones, and other technological devices that keep us connected. Can you imagine a day without checking your phone, keeping up with e-mails, or simply enjoy the simple things like board games, and taking a walk? It probably seems a bit boring, doesn’t it?
Communication and Media for Youth Studies
"Whether in academia or more mainstream circles, it is a cliche' to talk about how children and adolescents (and all of us) today are surrounded by an array of media and communication technologies that are part and parcel of everyday life." - JoEllen Fisherkeller, Associate Professor of Media, Culture and Communication, New York University
This article highlights how different it is for the youth of today to learn and expand their communication horizon through the technological advances of modern day. In our current global society, media plays a vital role. We find ourselves in a world and culture where we communicated and gain information via computers, phones, websites, and television. Technological advances allow many of today's youth to be influenced by a variety of newer media, particularly media communicated via the computer such as websites and blogs. These advances can provide opportunities for educational programs involving and encouraging youth to become creators of their own media projects. It also provides a resource for disadvantage young people to have access to this type of media through non-profit educational programs. By allowing our youth to improve their knowledge and skill set in this new arena, we are utilizing these resources to develop them into influential members of society.
We are also providing them with a voice to express their thoughts and ideas. Creativity and communication can be an important factor of how our children continue to learn and expand their world. However, it is important to keep in mind social, cultural and traditional experiences. Every individual has their own life experiences based on the environment and culture they grew up in. Recognizing and being sensitive to these factors will keep youth media programs available worldwide.
Reference:
Fisherkeller, JoEllen,"Youth Media Around the World: Implications for Communication and Media Studies"; 2009, Vol. 28 Issue 3, p21-25, 5p. (Retrieved from ESBCO Regis University, November 17, 2009).
Against Transperancy
“America can really know just who squeezed the sausage and when, and hold accountable anyone with an improper touch”. Lessig, Lawrence. ” Against Transparency: The Perils of Openness In Government”, 2009, p38, 8p. (Retrieved from ESBCO Regis University, November 17, 2009).
Transparency has become a common theme within our government for the last couple decades. President Regan signed into law the requirement for politicians to disclose campaign funds and who the contributors were. In politics, transparency is defined as holding public officials accountable by not withholding information. Since President Regan this has been the furthest that transparency, of politicians, has gone until the election of President Obama. Transparency is now taking another direct by looking not only at contributions to campaigns but also funds that are given to politicians from special interest groups. Some suggest that there is problems that would occur by posting such information. The questions that could arise are, did the politician vote for or against a bill for the money or by conscience? Would the information be twisted by components to gather public opinion? Would the data be so large that the public would not take notice? Is it worth the money to produce?
Transparency has become a common theme within our government for the last couple decades. President Regan signed into law the requirement for politicians to disclose campaign funds and who the contributors were. In politics, transparency is defined as holding public officials accountable by not withholding information. Since President Regan this has been the furthest that transparency, of politicians, has gone until the election of President Obama. Transparency is now taking another direct by looking not only at contributions to campaigns but also funds that are given to politicians from special interest groups. Some suggest that there is problems that would occur by posting such information. The questions that could arise are, did the politician vote for or against a bill for the money or by conscience? Would the information be twisted by components to gather public opinion? Would the data be so large that the public would not take notice? Is it worth the money to produce?
Transparency, or also known as naked transparency, is difficult and novel idea. Many factors come involved not by just giving information but also regulating the information. For example the Sunlight Foundation launched a campaign for all congress members to post their daily schedule on the Internet. If you think about this the first thought maybe that it is fine but security may become an issue. When a society comes up with ideas we must take time to make sure that we don’t move too fast. As I stated earlier transparency is a novel idea but implementation must be deliberately discussed and posted with clear and concise information to avoid misunderstanding and confusion.
Reference
Lessig, Lawrence. ” Against Transparency: The Perils of Openness In Government”, 2009, p38, 8p. (Retrieved from ESBCO Regis University, November 17, 2009)
The use of Voice over Internet Protocol in businesses and homes.
“Services such as VOIP, video, music, radio, news and instant messaging coupled with mobile devices such as a WiFi enabled iPod, and the ubiquity of broadband will result in 100 million consumer mobile VOIP users in 2011”
- Mareca Hatler, ON World’s Director of Research
Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP), was envisioned as a great design for large businesses spanning multiple states or several countries around the world. By using their Internet connection as a mean to communicate through their telephone system, businesses did away with long distance charges associated with state to state or International calls (2008). With today’s technology, many users carry devices that function both as a telephone and as a medium used to receive their email, as well as other functions. However, now with advances in VOIP technology, people are now able to use mobile phones to access VOIP services to make long distance calls with no additional charges (2008). More and more companies are offering this service in place of traditional land lines and with this same technology now accessible to mobile users, this service will only continue to grow as the technology does. With these services, users can now telephone colleagues anywhere in the world as if they were just down the hall in their local office, with the only concern being the time difference in each country (Kharif, 2008).
I work for a petroleum company that has their corporate office in Houston, TX; a large office in Tulsa, OK; and many remote sites locations throughout several states. I have no real experience with VOIP over mobile phones, but my company uses a Cisco VOIP telephone system at work and it offers many advantages. Users simply need to be connected to the Internet and have access to the corporate network, which can be done using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection. The phones are programmed through a web browser using nothing more than the telephones Media Access Address (MAC) and they are connected. They can be located anywhere in the world and dial a company extension as if they were in the office. All the features of the phone work the same. I have the same setup at home in Washington with our corporate office in Houston. I also have a software package that works as a virtual phone on my laptop when traveling. All I need is an Internet connection, a headset, and I have access to the phone as if I am in the office. While a VOIP telephone system will not benefit all companies, businesses that operate in several locations will save a large amount of money using a VOIP telephone system instead of a traditional land line. I believe VOIP services and usage will continue to grow at a rapid rate, both in the business world and with home users.
References
Kharif, O. (2008). VoIP Goes Mobile. BusinessWeek Online, 3. Retrieved November, 19 2009 from Academic Search Premier database.
- Mareca Hatler, ON World’s Director of Research
Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP), was envisioned as a great design for large businesses spanning multiple states or several countries around the world. By using their Internet connection as a mean to communicate through their telephone system, businesses did away with long distance charges associated with state to state or International calls (2008). With today’s technology, many users carry devices that function both as a telephone and as a medium used to receive their email, as well as other functions. However, now with advances in VOIP technology, people are now able to use mobile phones to access VOIP services to make long distance calls with no additional charges (2008). More and more companies are offering this service in place of traditional land lines and with this same technology now accessible to mobile users, this service will only continue to grow as the technology does. With these services, users can now telephone colleagues anywhere in the world as if they were just down the hall in their local office, with the only concern being the time difference in each country (Kharif, 2008).
I work for a petroleum company that has their corporate office in Houston, TX; a large office in Tulsa, OK; and many remote sites locations throughout several states. I have no real experience with VOIP over mobile phones, but my company uses a Cisco VOIP telephone system at work and it offers many advantages. Users simply need to be connected to the Internet and have access to the corporate network, which can be done using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection. The phones are programmed through a web browser using nothing more than the telephones Media Access Address (MAC) and they are connected. They can be located anywhere in the world and dial a company extension as if they were in the office. All the features of the phone work the same. I have the same setup at home in Washington with our corporate office in Houston. I also have a software package that works as a virtual phone on my laptop when traveling. All I need is an Internet connection, a headset, and I have access to the phone as if I am in the office. While a VOIP telephone system will not benefit all companies, businesses that operate in several locations will save a large amount of money using a VOIP telephone system instead of a traditional land line. I believe VOIP services and usage will continue to grow at a rapid rate, both in the business world and with home users.
References
Kharif, O. (2008). VoIP Goes Mobile. BusinessWeek Online, 3. Retrieved November, 19 2009 from Academic Search Premier database.
Training in a Virtual Reality
“Virtual worlds provide a shared visual space for students to meet and interact (via avatars). Not only do students share the quasi-realism of a 3D environment where participants can see and hear one another. These factors provide a strong sense of group presence, which leads to engaging group learning interactions.” Katherine Franceschi is an Assistant Professor of Information Systems at the University of Puerto Rico.
In this age of electronic communications, the human resource discipline of policy makers and strategic business partners, find themselves the beneficiaries of emerging technology in the workforce management, human resources information systems and distance learning arena. New technologies like social networking, PDA and iPod software are influencing how employee training and development occur in many organizations. Training through virtual reality will become the e-learning tool of the future, and my strong belief is that it will eventually replace the traditional stand-up trainer saving companies significant dollars in salaries and benefits for instructors.
The use of Avatars allows students to create different or “like” personas which make the learning experience even more engaging. These virtual training forums create 3D environments with interactions via avatars. Unlike videoconferencing, these do not (yet) fully capture facial expressions, but the real life like images make for an interesting replica of the real thing by offering aspects of full body appearance, gestures, locomotion, and directional voice. In addition, they offer a strong sense of being in the same “place”—with the other group members, as well as the possibility to explore that place and interact with (virtual) artifacts that are available (Franceschi, Katherine, Group Presence in Virtual Worlds: Supporting Collaborative E-Learning - Dissertation February 3, 2009).
Many gaming companies are prepared to capitalize on this new cyberspace trend for training. The Cyberlore Studios, for example, announced the company is re-launching as Minerva Software – will be switching gears from entertainment titles to customized training games for large corporate clients. The new company with its new e-learning component will launch with a new product: a remake of Cyberlore's most recent entertainment game, a Sims-style title called Playboy: The Mansion, which has sold 750,000 copies to date. At a virtual gaming convention in 2006, it was reported that the game's designers altered the graphics and scenarios so that they no longer have models or potentially offensive avatar references, and replaced them with sales reps and customers. With virtual training models that mimic game environments I am convinced we will see employees signing up in droves (especially the generation Y’ers), to create their avatars and explore the virtual reality of the learning world.
Sources
Engaging Group E-Learning in Virtual Worlds -
Katherine Franceschi, Ronald M. Le, Stelios H. Zanakis, and David Hinds, 2009 –
Franceschi, Katherine, Group Presence in Virtual Worlds: Supporting Collaborative E-Learning - Dissertation (February 3, 2009). Available at SSRN: http://ssrn.com/abstract=1337342
Franceschi, K. Group presence in virtual worlds: Supporting collaborative e‑learning. Ph.D. dissertation, Decision Sciences and Information Systems, Florida International University, Miami, 2008. (available at http://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=1337342). Retrieved November 17, 2009
Jenna, R. (2006, Mar. 27). In Virtual Training and It’s Fun!. Retrieved Nov. 24, 2009, from http://images.businessweek.com/ss/06/03/training_games/index_01.htm
In this age of electronic communications, the human resource discipline of policy makers and strategic business partners, find themselves the beneficiaries of emerging technology in the workforce management, human resources information systems and distance learning arena. New technologies like social networking, PDA and iPod software are influencing how employee training and development occur in many organizations. Training through virtual reality will become the e-learning tool of the future, and my strong belief is that it will eventually replace the traditional stand-up trainer saving companies significant dollars in salaries and benefits for instructors.
The use of Avatars allows students to create different or “like” personas which make the learning experience even more engaging. These virtual training forums create 3D environments with interactions via avatars. Unlike videoconferencing, these do not (yet) fully capture facial expressions, but the real life like images make for an interesting replica of the real thing by offering aspects of full body appearance, gestures, locomotion, and directional voice. In addition, they offer a strong sense of being in the same “place”—with the other group members, as well as the possibility to explore that place and interact with (virtual) artifacts that are available (Franceschi, Katherine, Group Presence in Virtual Worlds: Supporting Collaborative E-Learning - Dissertation February 3, 2009).
Many gaming companies are prepared to capitalize on this new cyberspace trend for training. The Cyberlore Studios, for example, announced the company is re-launching as Minerva Software – will be switching gears from entertainment titles to customized training games for large corporate clients. The new company with its new e-learning component will launch with a new product: a remake of Cyberlore's most recent entertainment game, a Sims-style title called Playboy: The Mansion, which has sold 750,000 copies to date. At a virtual gaming convention in 2006, it was reported that the game's designers altered the graphics and scenarios so that they no longer have models or potentially offensive avatar references, and replaced them with sales reps and customers. With virtual training models that mimic game environments I am convinced we will see employees signing up in droves (especially the generation Y’ers), to create their avatars and explore the virtual reality of the learning world.
Sources
Engaging Group E-Learning in Virtual Worlds -
Katherine Franceschi, Ronald M. Le, Stelios H. Zanakis, and David Hinds, 2009 –
Franceschi, Katherine, Group Presence in Virtual Worlds: Supporting Collaborative E-Learning - Dissertation (February 3, 2009). Available at SSRN: http://ssrn.com/abstract=1337342
Franceschi, K. Group presence in virtual worlds: Supporting collaborative e‑learning. Ph.D. dissertation, Decision Sciences and Information Systems, Florida International University, Miami, 2008. (available at http://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=1337342). Retrieved November 17, 2009
Jenna, R. (2006, Mar. 27). In Virtual Training and It’s Fun!. Retrieved Nov. 24, 2009, from http://images.businessweek.com/ss/06/03/training_games/index_01.htm
Businesses and Social Networking
Barnes and Barnes (2009) stated that “from a business perspective, it is unwise to remain disconnected and on the sidelines.” Social Networking has grown tremendously over the years as a way for friends and families to stay connected. The Internet tools from Facebook, Twitter, and various other sites and blogs have allowed the global sharing of information that has essentially replaced the need for postcards and phone calls just to chat. Families are able to share pictures without copying and mailing them to everyone and friends can keep other friends informed about what is going on in their life….like work. People have started using these social networking sites to express their opinions, feelings, and experiences about everything from school, relationships, kids, and even work.
Companies employ normal people that like to stay in contact with their families. As a result, employees have person lives. Those lives sometimes include many of those social networking sites as a way to keep in contact with their friends and families. Companies didn’t start off by taking too well to the social networking sites and the global access to other people’s opinions about the work place. However, “it is important to recognize that individuals from across the lifespan are becoming more attuned to the benefits of this technology.” (Barnes, N. & Barnes, F., 2009). Employees from the delivery driver on up the executives of a company are using technology more and more to communicate. As a business, this is something that must be embraced and not repelled. If used properly, the social networking sites can actually be a tool to provide a more collaborative and personal touch to your company image. The proper use and encouragement of these social networking sites will build better camaraderie and cohesion among employees.
Barnes, N., & Barnes, F. (2009). Equipping Your Organization For The Social Networking Game. Information Management (15352897), 43(6), 28-33. Retrieved from Academic Search Premier database.
Companies employ normal people that like to stay in contact with their families. As a result, employees have person lives. Those lives sometimes include many of those social networking sites as a way to keep in contact with their friends and families. Companies didn’t start off by taking too well to the social networking sites and the global access to other people’s opinions about the work place. However, “it is important to recognize that individuals from across the lifespan are becoming more attuned to the benefits of this technology.” (Barnes, N. & Barnes, F., 2009). Employees from the delivery driver on up the executives of a company are using technology more and more to communicate. As a business, this is something that must be embraced and not repelled. If used properly, the social networking sites can actually be a tool to provide a more collaborative and personal touch to your company image. The proper use and encouragement of these social networking sites will build better camaraderie and cohesion among employees.
Barnes, N., & Barnes, F. (2009). Equipping Your Organization For The Social Networking Game. Information Management (15352897), 43(6), 28-33. Retrieved from Academic Search Premier database.
what did she say?
"There is no question that many a library book club owes its inception to Oprah Winfrey. Of course, there were plenty of library-sponsored and private reading groups in existence before Ms. Winfrey discovered the joys of reading and sharing, but when Oprah picks up a new hobby, so does a nation." MK Chelton
Oprah has brought book clubs back into popularity and the Internet has made it very accessible for nearly everyone with a computer and a connection to the World Wide Web. Book clubs are great fun and books with high popularity can have a lot of fans participating in discussions. Books like the recent Twilight Saga story about a modern vampire love story.
Chelton's article explains how book clubs originally met in salons or parlors, and the participants would debate the selected book. The Internet has open up the ability of those with an interest to participate in a variety of clubs regardless of location. The use of the Internet media allows for different types of discussions - emails, forums, blogs, and websites.
The Internet also allows for anonymity of the participant. Perhaps the rough and tough type of guy may not have wanted to be associated with intellectual ladies and would have avoided such group gatherings in the flesh, but the Internet allows for privacy and therefore encourages those that may have had some inhibition to participate in a gentle sport!
Book Clubs have been an enjoyable pastime for many years, and thanks to Oprah, and the Internet, they have been revitalized for many years to come.
References:
Chelton, MK (Fall 2001). When Oprah meets e-mail:virtual book clubs. (Readers' Advisory). Reference & User Services Quarterly, 41, 1. p.31(6). Retrieved November 20, 2009, from Academic OneFile via Gale: http://find.galegroup.com.dml.regis.edu/gtx/start.do?prodld=AONE&userGroupName=regis
Oprah has brought book clubs back into popularity and the Internet has made it very accessible for nearly everyone with a computer and a connection to the World Wide Web. Book clubs are great fun and books with high popularity can have a lot of fans participating in discussions. Books like the recent Twilight Saga story about a modern vampire love story.
Chelton's article explains how book clubs originally met in salons or parlors, and the participants would debate the selected book. The Internet has open up the ability of those with an interest to participate in a variety of clubs regardless of location. The use of the Internet media allows for different types of discussions - emails, forums, blogs, and websites.
The Internet also allows for anonymity of the participant. Perhaps the rough and tough type of guy may not have wanted to be associated with intellectual ladies and would have avoided such group gatherings in the flesh, but the Internet allows for privacy and therefore encourages those that may have had some inhibition to participate in a gentle sport!
Book Clubs have been an enjoyable pastime for many years, and thanks to Oprah, and the Internet, they have been revitalized for many years to come.
References:
Chelton, MK (Fall 2001). When Oprah meets e-mail:virtual book clubs. (Readers' Advisory). Reference & User Services Quarterly, 41, 1. p.31(6). Retrieved November 20, 2009, from Academic OneFile via Gale: http://find.galegroup.com.dml.regis.edu/gtx/start.do?prodld=AONE&userGroupName=regis
Globalization of the Media
In their Annual Report, The Economist (2005) noted: “We are well positioned to benefit from the long-term trends towards globalization and the expansion of the high-end audience: wealthy, influential people with intellectual curiosity and an international outlook, with an increased appetite for information in the English language.” – Melissa Wall and Douglas Bicket in Window on the Wider World (2008)
References
Wall, M., & Bicket, D. (2008). Window on the wider world. Journalism practice, 2(2), 163-178. doi:10.1080/17512780801999345.
Americans are turning to the British media to supplement the news coverage they receive from the mainstream U. S. media outlets. Cultural affinity, common history, genre proximity, and political and religious heritage affect the flow of information between countries. Genre proximity also affects programming such as news and soap operas. News is a genre that transports well across borders. (Wall, 2008) The BBC, The Economist, The Financial Times, the Guardian, the Independent, and The Times of London have all seen an increase of American readers and some have sought readers through marketing or by making an American version of their product. This increase is due to a decrease of U. S. mainstream media coverage of foreign news over the last two decades and mainstream media’s reliance on talk shows, celebrity anchors, and other gimmicks that have reduced the amount of time spent reporting on “hard news.” British news media offers American news consumers a worldview that is not radically different, but is more complete.
Wall, M., & Bicket, D. (2008). Window on the wider world. Journalism practice, 2(2), 163-178. doi:10.1080/17512780801999345.
Cisco Systems: Taking Cyber Communication to the Next Level
Ned Hooper recently appointed CSO Cisco Systems is #63 on the Midas List.
"With his outstanding track record of success, I am very confident
in Ned's ability to help Cisco capitalize on our opportunities and drive
the company's business strategy as we meet our customers' evolving
expectations of their technology and business needs."
-John Chambers, Cisco Chairman
Cisco Systems Inc. has been a global leader in network design and electronic communication strategies for years and years. They are the embodiment of a company that produces technology solutions to enhance collaborative electronic communication. Being one of the early companies to produce network solutions for businesses and eventually reaching the residential markets. Through strategic mergers and acquisitions, technology innovations, and software developments Cisco Systems and leaders such as Ned Hooper have paved the way to large group collaboration on a global scale.
Ned Hooper has led many of the strategic mergers and acquisitions that have led to Cisco’s huge profits. According to one article Ned Hooper, “Through acquisitions…Hooper’s guidance has driven Cisco’s expansion in the network service control, wireless, consumer networking, and digital video markets, resulting in the addition of $3B+ in annual revenue to Cisco since 2002.” Cisco is a global leader because it complements its portfolio and offers solutions to collaborative roadblocks by either creating partnerships or acquiring businesses. Cisco is using the innovations of other businesses in order to meet and improve customer expectations.
In addition to employing leaders like Ned Hooper some of the technological innovations created by Cisco have helped businesses to create a more collaborative virtual work place. Examples of the technological advances Cisco has developed are items such as broadband modems, routers, switches, VPN tokens, etc. Cisco systems has also been a leader in wireless innovations and advancements. All these innovations have helped both businesses and homes enjoy enhanced communications electronically. These technological advancements have made it easier for people to communicate more effectively and efficiently regardless of geographic distance. The communication has also become more hyperpersonal now that people can have teleconferences and actually meet face to face easily across vast distances.
Lastly companies like Cisco systems have used software developments to leverage themselves as leaders in electronic communication. Their security efforts alone have helped to encourage collaborative communications by trying to create the safest environments they can for users. Cisco has an endless list of software applications for network management and collaboration. With each new day software engineers are thinking of new ideas to improve the quality of services that Cisco can offer to its customers. Be it tools that monitor and analyze networks, report network connection status, or web based solutions for web conferences Cisco and leaders like Ned Hooper are constantly looking for the next innovative step to improve collaborative communication.
Sources
http://newsroom.cisco.com/dlls/2007/eKits/Ned_Hooper_Bio.pdf
http://www.forbes.com/lists/2009/99/midas09_Ned-Hooper_RFDE.html
http://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS104576+08-Jul-2009+MW20090708
http://www.cisco.com/
COM215 Resources
HTML Web Siteshttp://www.web-source.net/html_tips.htmSuggested by Steven http://www.web-source.net/html_codes_chart.htm http://www.pageresource.com/html/index2.htm http://www.ibdguy.com/ http://www.htmlcodetutorial.com/ |
Central Desktop
“IDC [Interactive Data Corporation] recently reported in a study that...an estimated $3,300 per employee per year was wasted looking for information.” (Ives, 2009)
Decreasing costs and increasing productivity have long been primary goals of businesses. Central Desktop, a California company, provides an easy to use solution. Central Desktop offers a web-based software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform that simplifies and expedites collaboration between employees and customers allowing them to manage work activities “anywhere at any time” (Central, 2009).
One of the biggest benefits to using Central Desktop is an increase in productivity due to less wasted time. The Interactive Data Corporation, a research firm, estimates that the time lost looking for information cost companies $3300 annually per employee. Central Desktop reduces this cost by providing a central location for communication. Knowledge bases, manuals, and folders can be stored online and shared across workspaces, allowing everyone to access and contribute to documentation. Status Update sections that link directly to Twitter and Facebook reduce the amount of time required to update the company’s social sites. The company also recently added Microsoft Outlook Integration to the Central Desktop software, allowing users to automatically synchronize tasks, calendars, and emails between the programs, thus eliminating the need for double entry. The Outlook plug-in allows other users to coordinate and collaborate easily and eliminates constant back-and-forth emails and phone calls, and allows users on different Exchange servers to easily share calendars and task lists.
In addition to the time savings, Central Desktop helps in increase productivity by providing visible motivation for employees. By providing a central location for tasks and project plans, employees can see how important their contributions are to the overall goal, and how completion of their duties impact others involved in the project. This motivation can lead to a better workplace, with higher positivity and productivity since employees are aware of the importance of even the smallest tasks.
Central Desktop claims that its platform “delivers a 30 percent increase in productivity while decreasing the total cost of doing business” (Central, 2009); given the number of tools the software offers, this seems like a valid claim. Customers may see an even greater increase in productivity as Central Desktop implements planned upgrades such as sms text message reminders, improved mobile access, and Web-based Distributed Authoring and Versioning (WebDAV) extensions. As more workplaces utilize mobile and remote offices, the need for online collaboration grows. Central Desktop has perfectly positioned itself for future success.
Sources:
Central Desktop Recognized by Leading Independent Research Firm in Report on
Collaboration Platforms. (2009). Retrieved October 12, 2009 from the Fox Business Web site http://www.foxbusiness.com/story/markets/industries/industrials/central-desktoprecognized-leading-independent-research-firm-report/
Ives, B. (2009). Central Desktop adds MS Outlook Integration to its SaaS Social Technology Platform. Retrieved October 12, 2009 from The App Gap Web site
http://www.theappgap.com/central-desktop-adds-ms-outlook-integration-to-its-saas
social-technology-platform.html
Jantsch, J. (2009). Where Has All the Knowledge Gone? Retrieved October 12, 2009 from the Open Forum Web site https://www.openforum.com/idea-hub/topics/marketing/article/where-has-all-the-knowledge-gone-john-jantsch
Product Development. (2009). Retrieved October 12, 2009 from the Central Desktop Web site http://cdblog.centraldesktop.com/product-development/
Decreasing costs and increasing productivity have long been primary goals of businesses. Central Desktop, a California company, provides an easy to use solution. Central Desktop offers a web-based software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform that simplifies and expedites collaboration between employees and customers allowing them to manage work activities “anywhere at any time” (Central, 2009).
One of the biggest benefits to using Central Desktop is an increase in productivity due to less wasted time. The Interactive Data Corporation, a research firm, estimates that the time lost looking for information cost companies $3300 annually per employee. Central Desktop reduces this cost by providing a central location for communication. Knowledge bases, manuals, and folders can be stored online and shared across workspaces, allowing everyone to access and contribute to documentation. Status Update sections that link directly to Twitter and Facebook reduce the amount of time required to update the company’s social sites. The company also recently added Microsoft Outlook Integration to the Central Desktop software, allowing users to automatically synchronize tasks, calendars, and emails between the programs, thus eliminating the need for double entry. The Outlook plug-in allows other users to coordinate and collaborate easily and eliminates constant back-and-forth emails and phone calls, and allows users on different Exchange servers to easily share calendars and task lists.
In addition to the time savings, Central Desktop helps in increase productivity by providing visible motivation for employees. By providing a central location for tasks and project plans, employees can see how important their contributions are to the overall goal, and how completion of their duties impact others involved in the project. This motivation can lead to a better workplace, with higher positivity and productivity since employees are aware of the importance of even the smallest tasks.
Central Desktop claims that its platform “delivers a 30 percent increase in productivity while decreasing the total cost of doing business” (Central, 2009); given the number of tools the software offers, this seems like a valid claim. Customers may see an even greater increase in productivity as Central Desktop implements planned upgrades such as sms text message reminders, improved mobile access, and Web-based Distributed Authoring and Versioning (WebDAV) extensions. As more workplaces utilize mobile and remote offices, the need for online collaboration grows. Central Desktop has perfectly positioned itself for future success.
Sources:
Central Desktop Recognized by Leading Independent Research Firm in Report on
Collaboration Platforms. (2009). Retrieved October 12, 2009 from the Fox Business Web site http://www.foxbusiness.com/story/markets/industries/industrials/central-desktoprecognized-leading-independent-research-firm-report/
Ives, B. (2009). Central Desktop adds MS Outlook Integration to its SaaS Social Technology Platform. Retrieved October 12, 2009 from The App Gap Web site
http://www.theappgap.com/central-desktop-adds-ms-outlook-integration-to-its-saas
social-technology-platform.html
Jantsch, J. (2009). Where Has All the Knowledge Gone? Retrieved October 12, 2009 from the Open Forum Web site https://www.openforum.com/idea-hub/topics/marketing/article/where-has-all-the-knowledge-gone-john-jantsch
Product Development. (2009). Retrieved October 12, 2009 from the Central Desktop Web site http://cdblog.centraldesktop.com/product-development/
The Online Marketplace
Ebay! The Online Marketplace
“Our goal is to provide the best deals on whatever people want from the most diverse sellers on the planet,” (Norton)
Ebay, as everybody knows, is one of the first places we tend to look at when we are searching for that hard to find product. Ebay caters to 39 markets and the U.S. and has nearly 84 million users active worldwide. Ebay has changed the face of internet commerce when the company was started back in 1995. The founder of the company, Pierre Omidyar, started Ebay from his home computer when he wrote the code for an online auction format.
With Ebay being a household name, the company had expanded and bought multiple ecommerce companies as well as two popular sites we have all heard of. The two companies that Ebay had purchased was Paypal in 2002 and Skype in 2005. Paypal is a secure site where buyers can pay the sellers for their items by just using an email and setting up an account. There are minimal charges when using Paypal, but it is the quickest and safest way to receive items from Ebay as well as other websites that allow the use of Paypal. Skype being the most recent purchase allows users to be able to have live video and voice chat for free by using the software. Skype is used worldwide and is available in 28 different languages. Skype helps to generate relationships with people just like Ebay has doing since the inauguration of the program.
Ebay supports their members if they have any problems, questions, or concerns with anything via e-mail, chat, and phones. They have recently expanded to the public by creating a Twitter account as well as a Facebook account so members can follow Ebay everywhere. The company is well respected and does a very nice job with anything from handling the postings all the way through the completed transaction. The Ebay company is a top notch company that is well respected in the e-commerce community.
Ebay. (2009). ebay. Retrieved October 7, 2009, from http://news.ebay.com/about.cfmSocial Media Club of Salt Lake City. (n.d.). SMC of SLC. Retrieved October 7, 2009, from http://www.smcslc.org/ebay%E2%80%94using-social-media-inside-and-out-1000577.htm
“Our goal is to provide the best deals on whatever people want from the most diverse sellers on the planet,” (Norton)
Ebay, as everybody knows, is one of the first places we tend to look at when we are searching for that hard to find product. Ebay caters to 39 markets and the U.S. and has nearly 84 million users active worldwide. Ebay has changed the face of internet commerce when the company was started back in 1995. The founder of the company, Pierre Omidyar, started Ebay from his home computer when he wrote the code for an online auction format.
With Ebay being a household name, the company had expanded and bought multiple ecommerce companies as well as two popular sites we have all heard of. The two companies that Ebay had purchased was Paypal in 2002 and Skype in 2005. Paypal is a secure site where buyers can pay the sellers for their items by just using an email and setting up an account. There are minimal charges when using Paypal, but it is the quickest and safest way to receive items from Ebay as well as other websites that allow the use of Paypal. Skype being the most recent purchase allows users to be able to have live video and voice chat for free by using the software. Skype is used worldwide and is available in 28 different languages. Skype helps to generate relationships with people just like Ebay has doing since the inauguration of the program.
Ebay supports their members if they have any problems, questions, or concerns with anything via e-mail, chat, and phones. They have recently expanded to the public by creating a Twitter account as well as a Facebook account so members can follow Ebay everywhere. The company is well respected and does a very nice job with anything from handling the postings all the way through the completed transaction. The Ebay company is a top notch company that is well respected in the e-commerce community.
Ebay. (2009). ebay. Retrieved October 7, 2009, from http://news.ebay.com/about.cfmSocial Media Club of Salt Lake City. (n.d.). SMC of SLC. Retrieved October 7, 2009, from http://www.smcslc.org/ebay%E2%80%94using-social-media-inside-and-out-1000577.htm
Business and social networking
“Having become accustomed to Facebook, Twitter and other social networking tools, people are developing a taste for a similar experience in their business lives.” (jive 2009)
I found Jive software to be an extremely interesting company in the business collaboration arena. The quote above, taken from the main company website, points out how rapidly the world has embraced technology for communication and collaboration. Jive has created a software solution it describes as Social Business Software. (jive 2009)
The company is a relative newcomer having been launched in 2001. (jive about 2009) What I found interesting about this company is the number of partner solutions it has chosen to leverage. They have many news releases about partnerships with competing companies in the social communication area. While I see the value in open architecture partnering, this company seems to be doing an exceptional job of finding top notch partners to strengthen their own product sales.
I believe these types of social solutions are becoming more and more important to the changing business and social environment. Jive appears to have a good grasp on the pulse of trends and issues around social business networking. Having experienced similar tools at my work, I can honestly say these types of solutions do increase productivity. “The future of every company depends on their ability to unlock the value of their people, ideas, content, and relationships.” (jive products 2009) This is a powerful statement made by the company. Though I have no personal experience with their specific technology, they appear well underway to providing businesses with the tools to do just that.
Jive (2009). jive-to-socialize-content-across-the-enterprise.Copyright 2000–2009 Jive Software. Retrieved October 8, 2009, from http://www.jivesoftware.com/news/releases/2009/10/jive-to-socialize-content-across-the-enterprise
Jive About (2009). About Copyright 2000–2009 Jive Software. Retrieved October 8, 2009, from http://www.jivesoftware.com/about/partners
Jive Products (2009). Copyright 2000–2009 Jive Software. Retrieved October 8, 2009, from www.jivesoftware.com/products
Tride and true business practices still working
“In a business world linked by electronic networks and cheap, nearly instantaneous communications, physical location shouldn’t matter. But it does.”
What a relief to find that in the fast paced world we now experience every day businesses still have a need for personal contact. Even the managers at Draper Fisher Jurvetson, a huge worldwide venture capital firm, acknowledge the need for the personal touch. I envision that the major backers of Hotmail would have high tech offices, similar to the ones you see in the movies. They only need someone to bring them some coffee, or maybe they have a ‘smart desk’ that can brew it for them.
In the article by Leslie Berlin, “Location, Location: It Still Pays to be Near,” Randall Glein states that “in spite of everything that technology can do, there is no replacement for personal contact and face to face relationships when it comes to building companies.” Glein is the managing director of the DFJ Growth fund at the Draper Fisher Jurvetson venture capital company. DFJ has offices located in China, India, and the United States to name a few of the countries where they have physical offices. DFJ likes to be where the action is, they are present for evaluating the start up company, and to support it while it grows.
I found this statement to be a surprise coming from a manager of a venture capital firm that is responsible for bringing to life cutting edge technology. In visiting their website, www.dfj.com, I was treated to a very upscale and interactive experience. The network that they have engineered is impressive and each division has every new technology at their beck and call. I imagined that their offices would be walls of screens and virtual meeting rooms. It is nice to know that technology hasn’t completely replaced all aspects of business.
Lorraine Waters
Berlin, L.(2009, June 13) Location, Location: It Still Pays to be Near. New York Times. Retrieved October 9, 2009, from
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/14/business/14proto.html?_r=3&emc=eta1
What a relief to find that in the fast paced world we now experience every day businesses still have a need for personal contact. Even the managers at Draper Fisher Jurvetson, a huge worldwide venture capital firm, acknowledge the need for the personal touch. I envision that the major backers of Hotmail would have high tech offices, similar to the ones you see in the movies. They only need someone to bring them some coffee, or maybe they have a ‘smart desk’ that can brew it for them.
In the article by Leslie Berlin, “Location, Location: It Still Pays to be Near,” Randall Glein states that “in spite of everything that technology can do, there is no replacement for personal contact and face to face relationships when it comes to building companies.” Glein is the managing director of the DFJ Growth fund at the Draper Fisher Jurvetson venture capital company. DFJ has offices located in China, India, and the United States to name a few of the countries where they have physical offices. DFJ likes to be where the action is, they are present for evaluating the start up company, and to support it while it grows.
I found this statement to be a surprise coming from a manager of a venture capital firm that is responsible for bringing to life cutting edge technology. In visiting their website, www.dfj.com, I was treated to a very upscale and interactive experience. The network that they have engineered is impressive and each division has every new technology at their beck and call. I imagined that their offices would be walls of screens and virtual meeting rooms. It is nice to know that technology hasn’t completely replaced all aspects of business.
Lorraine Waters
Berlin, L.(2009, June 13) Location, Location: It Still Pays to be Near. New York Times. Retrieved October 9, 2009, from
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/14/business/14proto.html?_r=3&emc=eta1
The Invention of YouTube
“Let's say you're in your 20s and you start your first Internet company. Let's say 21 months later you sell it for $1.65 billion.” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006)
YouTube was created in 2005 by twenty-nine year old Chad Hurley, twenty-eight year old Steve Chen, and twenty-seven year old Jawed Karim. In 2002, the three men were employed by PayPal. After PayPal was purchased by eBay, they each received a generous portion of the shares. Their story began when, “Chad's greatest stroke of luck at PayPal was meeting Steve Chen and Jawed Karim, two PayPal engineers…” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006). Before he became CEO of YouTube, Chad Hurley attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Hurley majored in Computer Science but eventually switched his degree to graphic design and printmaking. Steve Chen attended University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the state funded boarding school, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy. Although Chen left, “a semester and a half early to work for PayPal” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006), he became chief technology officer for YouTube. Jawed Karim was the third co-founder of YouTube, but “… planned to resume computer studies, so he opted out of management and agreed to take a smaller ownership….” (Hopkins, J., USA Today, 11 October 2006). Karim went on to attend graduate school at Stanford.
The invention of YouTube is told in two different stories. Hurley and Chen claimed that the idea was created, “after they had trouble sharing videos online that had been shot at a dinner party at Steve's San Francisco apartment” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006). Karim claims that he proposed the idea after having difficulty finding online videos of the Janet Jackson super bowl revealing and the tragic tsunami in Thailand that winter. All in all, as it has been quoted by Jawed Karim, “It took the three of us” (Hopkins, J., USA Today, 11 October 2006) and “the equal efforts of all three of us” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006). It is in no doubt that all three men were co-founders of eBay. The early idea of YouTube first began as, “a video version of HOTorNOT” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006) which started as, “A dating site called Tune In Hook Up….” (Hopkins, J., USA Today, 11 October 2006). This idea eventually became a video-sharing site which, “the founders later developed the current site, now broadcasting 100 million short videos daily on myriad subjects” (Hopkins, J., USA Today, 11 October 2006). The site started out as several small ideas which lead to a huge idea. In 2005, the funding of $8.5 million was provided by Sequoia Capital, an investment company that “helped finance Apple, Google and other valley greats” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006). Allowing users to share individual videos, this became the YouTube site now enjoyed across the world.
YouTube grew and became the empire to sharing videos. It was reported in 2006, that YouTube grew to employ 67 employees (Hopkins, J., USA Today). The hype started with a short Saturday Night Live video clip called Lazy Sunday that increased, “visits to youtube.com [by] 83%” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006). Without having to download any software or register, “YouTube became a phenomenon in 2006 for many reasons, but one in particular: it was both easy and edgy, a rare combination” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006). Hurley and Chen also made the smart decision to not require viewers “… to sit through ads before videos played” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006). Google bought YouTube for 1.65 billion in November 2006. Google wanted to keep YouTube as independent as possible to preserve its branding. Although executives have kept Google and YouTube separate, “Google will get some control…. [because] YouTube's managers must now report to Chad or Steve and a corresponding Google exec” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006). YouTube has become a well known site for all viewers from any age. Thanks to three men in their late twenties that had the ambition to launch that small idea into reality. It just goes to prove anything is possible in a short amount of time.
Sources:
Cloud, J. (16 December 2006). The Gurus of YouTube Time Magazine. Posted in Time Magazine. Retrieved October 10, 2009 from
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1570721,00.html
Hopkins, J. (11 October 2006). Surprise! There’s a third YouTube co-founder. Posted in USA Today. Retrieved October 10, 2009 from
http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/2006-10-11-youtube-karim_x.htm
© 2009 YouTube, LLC. Company History. Retrieved October 10, 2009 from http://www.youtube.com/t/about
YouTube was created in 2005 by twenty-nine year old Chad Hurley, twenty-eight year old Steve Chen, and twenty-seven year old Jawed Karim. In 2002, the three men were employed by PayPal. After PayPal was purchased by eBay, they each received a generous portion of the shares. Their story began when, “Chad's greatest stroke of luck at PayPal was meeting Steve Chen and Jawed Karim, two PayPal engineers…” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006). Before he became CEO of YouTube, Chad Hurley attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Hurley majored in Computer Science but eventually switched his degree to graphic design and printmaking. Steve Chen attended University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the state funded boarding school, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy. Although Chen left, “a semester and a half early to work for PayPal” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006), he became chief technology officer for YouTube. Jawed Karim was the third co-founder of YouTube, but “… planned to resume computer studies, so he opted out of management and agreed to take a smaller ownership….” (Hopkins, J., USA Today, 11 October 2006). Karim went on to attend graduate school at Stanford.
The invention of YouTube is told in two different stories. Hurley and Chen claimed that the idea was created, “after they had trouble sharing videos online that had been shot at a dinner party at Steve's San Francisco apartment” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006). Karim claims that he proposed the idea after having difficulty finding online videos of the Janet Jackson super bowl revealing and the tragic tsunami in Thailand that winter. All in all, as it has been quoted by Jawed Karim, “It took the three of us” (Hopkins, J., USA Today, 11 October 2006) and “the equal efforts of all three of us” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006). It is in no doubt that all three men were co-founders of eBay. The early idea of YouTube first began as, “a video version of HOTorNOT” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006) which started as, “A dating site called Tune In Hook Up….” (Hopkins, J., USA Today, 11 October 2006). This idea eventually became a video-sharing site which, “the founders later developed the current site, now broadcasting 100 million short videos daily on myriad subjects” (Hopkins, J., USA Today, 11 October 2006). The site started out as several small ideas which lead to a huge idea. In 2005, the funding of $8.5 million was provided by Sequoia Capital, an investment company that “helped finance Apple, Google and other valley greats” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006). Allowing users to share individual videos, this became the YouTube site now enjoyed across the world.
YouTube grew and became the empire to sharing videos. It was reported in 2006, that YouTube grew to employ 67 employees (Hopkins, J., USA Today). The hype started with a short Saturday Night Live video clip called Lazy Sunday that increased, “visits to youtube.com [by] 83%” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006). Without having to download any software or register, “YouTube became a phenomenon in 2006 for many reasons, but one in particular: it was both easy and edgy, a rare combination” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006). Hurley and Chen also made the smart decision to not require viewers “… to sit through ads before videos played” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006). Google bought YouTube for 1.65 billion in November 2006. Google wanted to keep YouTube as independent as possible to preserve its branding. Although executives have kept Google and YouTube separate, “Google will get some control…. [because] YouTube's managers must now report to Chad or Steve and a corresponding Google exec” (Cloud, J., Time Magazine, 16 December 2006). YouTube has become a well known site for all viewers from any age. Thanks to three men in their late twenties that had the ambition to launch that small idea into reality. It just goes to prove anything is possible in a short amount of time.
Sources:
Cloud, J. (16 December 2006). The Gurus of YouTube Time Magazine. Posted in Time Magazine. Retrieved October 10, 2009 from
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1570721,00.html
Hopkins, J. (11 October 2006). Surprise! There’s a third YouTube co-founder. Posted in USA Today. Retrieved October 10, 2009 from
http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/2006-10-11-youtube-karim_x.htm
© 2009 YouTube, LLC. Company History. Retrieved October 10, 2009 from http://www.youtube.com/t/about
AT&T Still Growing
"We are the most open wireless company in the industry (Cauley, 2007)."
With the wireless industry booming and so many companies trying to make a name for themselves it is no surprise that AT&T finds itself in the running at the front of the pack. With technology like the I-phone and Genus it is obvious why they are one of the best wireless services providers in the nation. AT&T now offers their customer the option to use other devices other than those that are solely owned by AT&T and even allowing them to do it without signing a contract. This is a big change from when they would only allow you to use their technology and in order to do it you had to sign a two-year contract. Now if you want to buy the I-phone you will find that it is still linked to the two-year contract and that AT&T has a contract with Apple to be the only provider to sell it for five years.
Companies like AT&T have to always be thinking one step ahead of the competition if they are going to thrive in the world of technology. Without new innovative ideas they will not be able to draw in the customers needed to make their company successful. For AT&T that is not an issue; they recently released the “TerreStar Genus, a Smartphone that can use a satellite network when AT&T's cellular wireless network is unavailable (Hamblen, 2009).” What a brilliant idea and it is said to beat the Microsoft version called Windows Mobile. Even though most of us can not squeeze the extra cash out of our budgets right now to purchase this high priced commodity, it is only a matter of time before it is more affordable.
As long as AT&T is flexible with the needs of customers they will find themselves to be very successful. If they do go to the open platform for mobile services it will be one reason that people jump ship on other providers since most of us prefer freedom at anytime compared to binding contracts. Whether you purchase an I-phone or the new TerreStar Genus you will be with one of the most successful mobile service providers in the world and one that is more in tune with what the consumer needs and wants.
Cauley, L., (2007) AT&T flings cellphone network wide open, Retrieved October 7, 2009 from http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/telecom/2007-12-05-att_N.htm
Hamblen, M., (2009) AT&T unveils dual-mode Genus smartphone, Retrieved October 7, 2009 from http://www.networkworld.com/news/2009/093009-att-unveils-dual-mode-genus.html?page=2
With the wireless industry booming and so many companies trying to make a name for themselves it is no surprise that AT&T finds itself in the running at the front of the pack. With technology like the I-phone and Genus it is obvious why they are one of the best wireless services providers in the nation. AT&T now offers their customer the option to use other devices other than those that are solely owned by AT&T and even allowing them to do it without signing a contract. This is a big change from when they would only allow you to use their technology and in order to do it you had to sign a two-year contract. Now if you want to buy the I-phone you will find that it is still linked to the two-year contract and that AT&T has a contract with Apple to be the only provider to sell it for five years.
Companies like AT&T have to always be thinking one step ahead of the competition if they are going to thrive in the world of technology. Without new innovative ideas they will not be able to draw in the customers needed to make their company successful. For AT&T that is not an issue; they recently released the “TerreStar Genus, a Smartphone that can use a satellite network when AT&T's cellular wireless network is unavailable (Hamblen, 2009).” What a brilliant idea and it is said to beat the Microsoft version called Windows Mobile. Even though most of us can not squeeze the extra cash out of our budgets right now to purchase this high priced commodity, it is only a matter of time before it is more affordable.
As long as AT&T is flexible with the needs of customers they will find themselves to be very successful. If they do go to the open platform for mobile services it will be one reason that people jump ship on other providers since most of us prefer freedom at anytime compared to binding contracts. Whether you purchase an I-phone or the new TerreStar Genus you will be with one of the most successful mobile service providers in the world and one that is more in tune with what the consumer needs and wants.
Cauley, L., (2007) AT&T flings cellphone network wide open, Retrieved October 7, 2009 from http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/telecom/2007-12-05-att_N.htm
Hamblen, M., (2009) AT&T unveils dual-mode Genus smartphone, Retrieved October 7, 2009 from http://www.networkworld.com/news/2009/093009-att-unveils-dual-mode-genus.html?page=2
Oracle's Future is Bright
“With the agility of a much smaller company, Oracle has proved throughout its history that it can build for the future on the foundation of years of innovation, intimate knowledge of its customers' challenges and successes, and the best technical and business minds in the world” – Oracle.com
In 1977, Software Development Laboratories was founded by Larry Ellison with a $2000 investment. Larry Ellison saw the potential of what was known as a relationship database model. After realizing that no other company had began developing this software for commercial business use, he formed Software Development Laboratories (SDL) and developed what would become known as the Oracle Database. Eventually, SDL would rebrand itself as Oracle Corporation and become one of the most powerful software companies in the world. Today, Oracle is the third largest software company, behind Microsoft and IBM. With 320,000 customers, Oracle is the largest business software company in the world.
Oracle prides itself on being on the very cutting edge of business technology. CEO Larry Ellison is very vocal in declaring Oracle Database technology far superior to any other database management system on the market. Oracle claims that any technology which is not web based like theirs is obsolete in today’s world.
Oracle regularly makes headlines for its purchases of other companies. In fact, Oracle is probably best known in the business world for devouring smaller companies. Since 2002, Oracle has spent more than $30 billion acquiring software rivals. Most recently they made headlines when they purchased the struggling Sun Microsystems (JAVA) for $7.4 billion. After the acquisition, Mr. Ellison stated that “Oracle will be the only company that can build systems that weave together everything from application to storage and ensure they work with hardware from the get-go”.
Hamm, S. (2009). Oracle Agrees to Buy Sun for $7.4 Billion. BusinessWeek Online, 12. http://search.ebscohost.com.dml.regis.edu
Nortel and Microsoft Unified Communications
“The faster and easier it is to get information, the more we still need to contact people!” (Rosenburg, 2006)
The collaborative solution to take the complexity out of communications by breaking down the barriers of voice, email, conferencing, video and instant messaging has been achieved by the combined efforts of Nortel Networks and Microsoft, Inc. Nortel Networks product solutions are optical, wireless and voice technologies which are at the foundation of the world's economy, powering global commerce, and delivering innovative network capabilities to connect rural areas. Microsoft Inc. is a multinational computer technology corporation that develops, manufactures, licenses, and supports a wide range of software products for different computing devices. The two companies, experts in their fields, combined to bring forth a communication solution that is not a single product, but is a set of products working together.
The combined product that was produced by the two companies is called Unified Communications. Unified Communications harnesses the power of Microsoft software and mixes it with the telephony and network PBX capabilities of Nortel to make it easier for people to communicate with others. Telephony is the capability that “allows people to place, receive, forward, or delegate calls from their PC, desk phone, or mobile phone” (Nortel, nd). With a USB plug-in headset, a person can be involved with conference calls from anywhere they may be located. The capabilities of Microsoft Unified Communications eliminate the separation between phones and computers, and some of the Unified Communications capabilities are:
- The telephony feature that “allows people to place, receive, forward, or delegate calls from their PC, desk phone, or mobile phone” (Nortel, nd).
- The product is able to collaborate remotely with colleagues and customers with audio, video, and Web conferencing easily.
- The product is able to consolidate voice mail systems and e-mail into one inbox. This allows anyone to manage their voicemail as easily as their email.
- The instant messaging feature allows people to communicate with others immediately depending on their availability. The conversation history for conferences or questions can be stored for further use.
- The feature of a traditional messaging system that protects communication and is easier to administer. This allows people to have business mobility.
The Unified Communications product works within a Windows-based structure. The need to communicate with people to conduct a profitable business is being made easier and faster for all. According to Microsoft (2009), “The system doesn’t just make people productive, it makes them more efficient.” Consumers are able to communicate to the right person or people in an effective manner. Costs on travel for face to face meetings with customers are greatly reduced, and, problems can be solved quickly. The Unified Communications product is an effective means of collaborative communication and a good stepping stone for the companies not ready for “Live Meeting”.
References:
Microsoft Unified Communications. (2009). Microsoft, Inc. Retrieved October 6, 2009, from http://www.microsoft.com/everybodysbusiness/en/us/products/unified-communiations.aspx
Rosenberg, A. (2006). How Unified Communications Will Affect Enterprise IT. Business
Communications Review, June 2006, 38-42. Retrieved October 6, 2009, from http://web.ebscohost.com.dml.regis.edu/ehost
Unified Communications. (nd). Nortel Networks. Retrieved October 6, 2009, from http://www2nortel.com/cgi-bin/printer.cgi?language=en
Growing Up Digital
"You’re reminded of the old Bob Dylan line “There’s something happening here but you don’t know what it is.” " (Tapscott, 2009)
This quote is relating to how the internet has become a tool for many in the age ranges of 11-31. The "other" generations seem to use old fashioned ideas to get information like to find a phone number, find what movies are playing in the theatres, as well as shopping in the stores. This age range has adapted and learned how to use the net to shop or even find an apartment. Technology moves at a high rate of speed and if the "other" generations do not know what is happening they will have a hard time catching up to learn.
The net generation is the age group that can learn and adapt as fast as their minds can learn. Managers are finding this generation to be a high recruit. This group can play an important role in the way businesses are run. Their civic activity is becoming a new form of social activism. The net generation is the next generation to help shape the world.
Tapscott. Grown Up Digital: How the Net Generation is Changing Your World. 2009. September 25, 2009..
This quote is relating to how the internet has become a tool for many in the age ranges of 11-31. The "other" generations seem to use old fashioned ideas to get information like to find a phone number, find what movies are playing in the theatres, as well as shopping in the stores. This age range has adapted and learned how to use the net to shop or even find an apartment. Technology moves at a high rate of speed and if the "other" generations do not know what is happening they will have a hard time catching up to learn.
The net generation is the age group that can learn and adapt as fast as their minds can learn. Managers are finding this generation to be a high recruit. This group can play an important role in the way businesses are run. Their civic activity is becoming a new form of social activism. The net generation is the next generation to help shape the world.
Tapscott. Grown Up Digital: How the Net Generation is Changing Your World. 2009. September 25, 2009.
The Growth of Cyber Communities
"Nielsen's online data shows that about half of the US population visited a social networking website in the last year and that number grows every quarter,"
-Nielsen Claritas research executive Wils Corrigan.
This was a quote I found through an Associated Free Press article hosted by Google. I have been searching daily for statistics on the growth rates and I started with Nielsen Research. My initial research led me to an article in the Washington Post first published in 2006. The article uses data from a research firm called ComScore Media Metrix, a research firm created in 1999 to measure trends in ecommerce. The most startling statistic I found was an insane growth rate in the number of users visiting Blogger.com after they were purchased by Google in a strategic business move. Amazingly one year after the purchase by the internet giant Google the amount of viewers to Blogger.com raised to over 15 million people from over 2 million the year before.
That is a growth rate of %650!
A final analysis of my research and a final search for updated information let me to the quote posted above on Friday September 23rd 2009. If half of the people in the US visited a social networking website that means over 150 million people in the US alone will visit sites like Blogger.com, not to mention the powerhouses like Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter. This makes me wonder how many people would be added to that number if they were to account for the entire world wide community, since we are looking at the growth rates of cyber communities on the world wide web.
Sources:
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iEC1HZec3ta6nJlsVJ7wTM21i3QA
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/04/03/AR2006040301692.html
http://www.comscore.com/
http://en-us.nielsen.com/tab/industries/media
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5i0aOhdIjf8Cbm-THKWkCAjSVra9Q
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iEC1HZec3ta6nJlsVJ7wTM21i3QA
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/04/03/AR2006040301692.html
http://www.comscore.com/
http://en-us.nielsen.com/tab/industries/media
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5i0aOhdIjf8Cbm-THKWkCAjSVra9Q
Accuracy in the Online World
“Consumers of scholarship are very much nurtured by the Internet…They can easily be defrauded by people who are giving false impressions of broad consensus on a point of view, when it’s really just one person.”
- Dr. Lawrence H. Schiffman (Kolowich, 2009)
I’ll admit it: the Internet is my primary source of information; I use it to for everything from researching the history of the world to finding out which toaster oven I should buy. But we don’t know the people providing this information. How do we know that we can trust them? Just like in “real life”, we depend on feedback from others. If 9 out of 10 others agree with the accuracy of what we have found, it must be true, right? But what if 8 of those 9 people are really one person under different aliases? Phantom reviewers and “sock puppets” are a major problem on the Internet, and can skew one’s perception of the accuracy of information provided. Even legitimate sources can be affected by puppets, as one
Kolowich, S. (2009). The Fall of an Academic Cyberbully. Chronicle of Higher Education, 55.
Retrieved September 26, 2009, from Academic Search Premier database
http://search.ebscohost.com.dml.regis.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=aph&An= 37368738&site=ehost-live
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)