Microsoft & the New World of Computing

The advent of Windows® 10 has been a breath of fresh air for the enterprise user experience. Windows 10 has reintroduced the use of the mouse, while making the most of touch-centric device capabilities. Mobile environments – both tablet and phone – are now much more effective accessing and modifying enterprise applications (e.g. ERP, permitting).

The factors that have inhibited the widespread adoption of multi-platform computing revolve around the quality of the user experience. The Windows 7 operating system (OS) was designed for desktop environments, and lacked adequate usability for mobile devices. Another inhibitor was the substantial power drain and extensive heat generated by legacy Intel® processors. These two factors squashed the desire of mobile users to use Windows 7 tablets. Read more

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Change Requires Experienced Management

The way that information is presented and consumed has changed dramatically in the last few years.  The consumerization of information access through smartphones and tablets has altered how people interact with their systems.  This new “convenient” mode of information sharing has been imposed on enterprises with the expectation that touch-friendly systems are no different to support than the existing systems; however, these activities represent monumental shifts for enterprise IT.

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Critical Skills for the Coming Technology Transformation

A generational transformation of the work environment is underway that fundamentally alters how work is done. The rapid evolution of technology is changing how we work, which in turns forces more changes to the technologies. Tablet computing can dramatically increase the productivity of a growing mobile workforce;  however, tablets can also potentially hinder productivity as much as improve it. For example, there are compatibility inconsistencies among tablets that limit its integration into enterprises.

For optimal efficiency gains, the technology must be tailored for the task.  The ergonomics of the hardware, as well as the fit of the software functionality are essential.  The fit analysis process requires skills that are very different from those traditional IT organizations perform.  Read more

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IT Security and the Art of Saying ‘No’

The widespread adoption of cloud-based systems has elevated their importance to daily business transactions.  As a result, threats from cybercriminals have also grown dramatically.  The breech of Target’s IT systems points out the undeniable vulnerability of organizations, which can damage the business and cause a loss of customer faith in the safekeeping of sensitive information.

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The Calm Before the Storm

TheThe start of a new year offers renewed focus on our goals and the steps needed to get there. From an IT perspective, last year was centered on transitioning from Microsoft Windows XP to new desktop computers and updated operating systems. The move from Windows XP has forced many organizations out of their technology innovation slumber to actually consider mobility applications and how computers are used.

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Treading the Waters of Mobility

Mobility, especially in public safety environments, is a heavy concept these days…with many permutations. Every law enforcement magazine includes articles about mobility – its importance, and how organizations are using mobility to improve efficiencies or effectiveness. The overarching goal of mobility is greater community service, while the objectives are enhanced data access, faster and more accurate incident documentation, and greater intelligence-led decision-making. It must be good then, right?

Take a moment to consider the scope of mobility. Cell phones, tablets, laptops and devices that blur the lines can use Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, microwave, satellite, copper, and/or fibre to access the Internet, a “cloud,” an intranet, a network, other mobile devices. There are so many options.
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Voter Expectations & Funding

In recent elections, a general theme is developing that could dramatically impact how technology is implemented and managed in government. Voters have been rejecting bonds for capital investments. It’s clear that everyone is tightening their belts during these economic times, and it seems that people are paying close attention to what they get for their investment. Gone are the days when voters simply supplied funds to government agencies and trusted that the investments were being spent on activities that support their best interests. Where does that leave government and community leaders? More thorough planning and a clear vision that clearly outlines the merits of any particular project are required. As a result, government agencies must partner with citizens earlier to ensure the community’s strategic objectives are understood and supported. Read more

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