Top 10 Book Reads For Successful CIOs

Looking to discover a few good books this fall? CIOs, search no longer. We’ve compiled a list of 10 of our favorite IT books to help CIOs grow and succeed. From successful CIOs to award winning psychiatrists, these authors have created books designed to enhance your leadership qualities, help you communicate the value of IT, and give you practical skills to improve your IT department. Let these recent titles be part of your success story.

Most of the following books are also available in an e-book format, so if you have a Kindle, iPad, Nook, or other portable reading device you can find these books with an online retailer.

“CIO Best Practices: Enabling Strategic Value with Information Technology” by Joe Stenzel, Gary Cokins, Karl D. Schubert and Michael H. Hugos. This best practice guide details indispensable leadership strategies and responsibilities for enterprises of all sizes and industries. A great resource for CIOs, as well as those who simply want to understand the importance of IT for their enterprise.

“Adventures of an IT Leader”by Robert D. Austin, Richard L. Nolan and Shannon O’Donnell. A simple and readable premise that details the challenges and rewards of bridging the gap between IT and the rest of the enterprise. You’ll follow fictional character Jim Burton, a new and inexperienced CIO, as he integrates business leadership skills with successful IT management in order to overcome IT obstacles.

“Greater Than Yourself: The Ultimate Lesson In True Leadership”by Steve Farber. An inspiring and compelling book about sharing knowledge to make others greater than yourself. Gives a new spin to the phrase ‘knowledge is power’ by describing a leadership strategy that involves giving knowledge to others and leading with purpose.

“Real Business of IT: How CIOs Create and Communicate Value”by Richard Hunter and George Westerman. Communicating the value of IT can be difficult, even frustrating, for CIOs constantly battling the questions of cost. By changing the perspective from the cost of IT to the value of IT to the business, this book details how to create clear communication that describes the value of IT in measurable, understandable terms.

“World Class IT: Why Businesses Succeed When IT Triumphs”by Peter A. High. An articulate and well organized book that describes how an effective IT system can help enterprises grow and succeed. In a world of flourishing technology, High also details important relationship and communication strategies to make IT an effective component to business performance.

“Shine: Using Brain Science to Get the Best from Your People” by Edward M. Hallowell. Bestselling author and psychiatrist Hallowell focuses in on brain science and performance research to help you inspire your team to excellence. Five noteworthy strategies can help your team connect, assist employees in finding fulfilling and meaningful responsibilities, and enable your team to excel.

“CIO Wisdom: Best Practices from Silicon Valley” by Dean Lane, with members of the CIO Community of Practice and Change Technology Solutions Inc. With information and insight from 20 of the world’s top IT executives, this book is sure to provide insight into your planning, budgeting and strategy questions. This book can help you to maximize your business value and, as a bonus, boost your charitable contributions – the author’s profits will fund scholarship programs for underprivileged kids who plan careers in IT.

“Straight to the Top: Becoming a World-Class CIO” by Gregory S. Smith. Smith provides an enlightening view of the position and responsibilities of becoming a CIO. With intelligent research, interviews with other executives, and essential tips from his own experience as a CIO, Smith equips future CIOs with a path to the top.

“Mastering the Hype Cycle: How to Choose the Right Innovation at the Right Time”by Jackie Fenn and Mark Raskino. Two Gartner Fellows advice enterprises of all sizes about how to choose innovations at the right time and how to avoid disillusionment. Mastering the hype cycle can help you time your innovations correctly to give them the best opportunity for long term success.

“CIO Survival Guide: The Roles and Responsibilities of the Chief Information Officer” byKarl D. Schubert. New CIOs will appreciate the helpful guidelines and practical skills designated to improve competency for IT leaders. This book offers concrete advice to help new CIOs overcome communication obstacles and find success in the demanding world of IT.…

Fast Tutorial in Buying Platform Weighing Scales

If you’re in the market for an industrial scale, there are many manufacturers and models out within the market. There are platform weighing scales, industrial floor scales, pallet truck scales along with a host of other variants to choose from. But take your time in selecting the right one. Right here are some pointers to make decision generating easier for you. Prior to scouring the market for a weighing scale, make a list if things that you need to think about. First what’s the scale for? This is essential as this will figure out in the event you need an industrial floor scale or one that’s mobile like a pallet truck scale. Are you gonna be designating a space for weighing or will you be all over the place weighing issues? These basic questions will save you lots of money in addition to make your work simpler and more efficient.
After that consider what you’re weighing. This consists of the size, shape, material and of course the weight of your load. Weighing scales have turn out to be much more sophisticated and much more complicated. Gone are the days when counter weights are used. Today, even the materials used can make a difference. For example, stainless steel weights can price a bit much more however it can certainly last longer.
Aluminum scales are lighter making them easier to move around. In addition, scales are available in varying load capacities. You are able to get 1 with an 800 lbs capacity or find your self with 1 that may easily weigh loads up to 20,000 lbs. Likewise, the platforms are available in varied sizes from 3′ by 3′ to 10′ platforms. The trick right here would be to buy only what you require. But allow for some wiggle room – you might need to weigh loads more than your usual or deal with larger stuff.
You may wish to consider other elements and features like digital display, wireless connection, price and warranties. All these will guide you in purchasing your industrial ground scale or whatever kind of scale you require. On a final note, it is usually best to select brands that you simply know and that you are able to trust. Remember, this really is an asset.…

Benefits of Green Building Technology

When building a new home it is important to consider the environment. These days many corporations are under watch for their sustainability and carbon footprint but people who plan on having custom homes built also need to think about cost efficient designs and energy efficient systems that will help reduce heating and cooling prices. Many common building practices that were used even ten years ago are now under scrutiny for potentially hazardous materials and the more you invest in green building technology the safer and cheaper your new home will be in the long run.
Once the trendy catchphrase of new age scientists and conservationists, green technology is quickly becoming adopted by more people who recognize the importance of cutting energy costs and building homes that are eco-friendly. With advanced building materials and recycled materials new homes and renovations can be done at an affordable price without sacrificing design or personal taste. The misconception is that environmentally friendly materials and systems will be of a lesser quality than standard building materials but there is no evidence to support these claims and in many cases homes that feature passive solar design, air infiltration and insulation systems and recycled materials hold up just as well as dwellings with traditional materials.
By using green technology you do more than just feel good about helping to sustain the environment. With geothermal systems and effective landscape design you can actually save money on energy costs such as heating and electricity. With the proper materials, well designed systems and careful planning general contractors can make your home both cost and energy efficient by employing green technology. Promoting environmental consciousness is always a good thing but now it’s no longer just a fad. Architecture and construction businesses are realizing that how they structure new homes and buildings is having a significant impact on the surrounding area and the more sustainable a new home is the better it is for the environment.
While there is a lot involved with eco-friendly construction, green building is essentially about taking a systematic approach that encompasses every step of design and construction from land use and site planning to natural resource management, materials selection, energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and overall longevity of your home.
With advanced green building technology you can greatly improve the air infiltration and insulation of your home to avoid expensive energy costs and also the headache of having to upgrade a traditional heating or cooling system. By going green you not only help the environment but also do yourself a favor by cutting costs.…

Your Own Electronic Tools – Shield the Ecosystem

Your Own Electronic Tools – Shield the Ecosystem

Are you a gadget freak? Are you bristling with the latest gizmos? I never regarded myself a gizmo individual but my loved ones point out that I am – I have a SLR digital camera, a good iphone, a number of personal computers and a Satnav product. It does not seem to be that much to me personally, but as my spouse is a technophobe she sees things in a different light.

Different individuals appear to have much more than that yet, hey, my spouse and children name me a gadget geek therefore I guess I am. I’m also “environmentally friendly” – I prefer to think I recycle and reuse products when I can. I know I could be better. Significantly better. But – I in no way consider the “eco-friendly” aspect when purchasing devices.

I do not really know if it is very good news or very poor but it appears that I am in the majority as it looks that 6 out of 10 of individuals that acquire devices are not eco-friendly either. The lure of the gizmo far outshines the the need to preserve the natural environment. Yet folks DO realize that there’s an environmentally friendly problem – 60% evidently. So what’s stopping green and gadget taking place concurrently?

Well, it appears that presently there is not sufficient information being offered to device consumers concerning how green the device might end up being or just what the company is undertaking to help the natural world. My automatic washer and dryer inform me what impact they may have on the surroundings but my mobile phone and digital camera do not do the self same thing. How reckless of them.

The gadget organizations have a chance to improve issues. This may include exactly how the gizmo is low emission or how natural materials are procured from less damaging situations. It surely does make sense to begin the process.…

Cheap VGA Splitter Puts Theatre Back In Pictures

It never fails that there seems to be a technical emergency every Friday about an hour before quitting time. In this case, the call came from a local movie theater which relied on a VGA splitter to distribute video signals to various signs and monitors in the theater. Some signs were operational, but there were several that would not display any images. Many of their signs showing the movie times and locations were not displaying and there was a bit of pandemonium trying to get movie patrons into the correct movie hall. It took a few minutes of troubleshooting, but the problem was quickly identified as a non-functioning VGA splitter unit. It probably took a hit from a power surge during a power outage the previous night.
We often warn clients about not putting critical components onto a UPS backup device or a dependable surge protector. The problem is identifying what is “critical” as well as replacing surge protectors on a regular basis. Electrical components often get destroyed when a power surge occurs in the building. After a power outage, when the power comes back up, often there is spike of power that lasts millionths of a second. These spikes are what fry electrical components. The cinema used VGA splitters to control the signs and displays in the building. If one or several of these became victims of a power surge, then it compromised the entire setup.
VGA splitters can be cascaded together to display on up to 240 monitors. In this case, the cinema used three 4 Port splitters to control the displays. There are also UTP VGA Video Splitter Extender products that extend video signal up to 1000ft feet using Cat5/Cat5e/Cat6 cables. Fortunately the cinema manager used a UPS system to protect his computers and servers in the complex, but did not think about plugging these VGA splitters into a UPS. That really isn’t surprising as the computers cost a lot more than the VGA splitters.
You can buy a single input, 2 output video splitter for as little as $36. Of course, the more ports you require, the higher the price, but it still remains a cheap solution. There are VGA Splitters that can be controlled via a remote control and stream both video and audio. These also are available in multi-port models. Those models do carry a heftier price tag, so be sure to put them onto a surge protector or UPS unit.…

New PlayStation Games – Discover the Hottest New Releases For PS3

New PlayStation Games – Discover the Hottest New Releases For PS3

The new PlayStation games feature some of the most highly anticipated titles and critically acclaimed games of all time. With the release of these titles, PlayStation reached a new milestone in visually stunning and riveting game play, and the reason for owning a PS3 has become quite apparent. Here are some of the hottest new releases creating the buzz:

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (November 2009) This game was one of the most highly anticipated game releases – and the game lived up to the hype. Selling approximately 4.7 million copies worldwide in the first 24 hours on the market, the game is a first person shooter game which picks up 5 years after the previous installment.

The game features a counter terrorism group, Task Force 41, who must fight a Russian terrorist organization and stop a Russian invasion of the United States. There are several different settings for the game, including Washington DC, Afghanistan, Siberia and Rio de Janeiro.

As in the previous releases, the game follows the same winning structure featured in the earlier games. It provides non stop action, intense battle sequences, and the new special ops co-op mode is a great multi player enhancement. Though very new, the game has quickly become a must have title for PS3 gamers.

Uncharted 2: Among Thieves (October 2009) This is a follow up to the critically acclaimed title, Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune. An exclusive PS3 game, it features more adventures of Nathan Drake, a fortune hunter who has a shady past and a questionable reputation. The same elements that set the first game apart – action, intrigue, cinematic storylines, stunning graphics – are all present in this new release. Uncharted 2 also adds more to the mix, including deep online multiplayer options and a whole new cast of interesting characters.

The game has received near perfect acclaim from both critics and end users. “Stunning”, “Speechless”, “Game of the year”, and “The best gaming experience I’ve ever had” are just some of the unsolicited comments the game has received. Uncharted 2 manages to combine riveting game play with everything else you would ever want in an entertainment experience and there’s really nothing out there that can match it.

Assassin’s Creed II: (November 2009) Get ready to immerse yourself in the lush and dangerous world of the Italian Renaissance. As a new assassin in a world filled with power and corruption, you are faced with many perilous challenges and difficult choices. The game features many new weapons to help you complete your mission and the atmosphere is expansive and very detailed.

Unlike the previous installment, Assassin II has a cinematic feel and striking graphics. The environment features many historical landmarks and the world is so much bigger than the one in the first installment.

As you move through the game, the character development is also very involved and central to the action. Ensnared in a web of revenge, power and deadly conspiracy, the game is both physically and mentally challenging, and a must for those seeking a thrilling new action adventure game.

The newest crop of PlayStation games feature compelling storylines, breathtaking graphics, and immersive action that draws you in and keeps you spellbound. If you’re looking to enjoy a rich and fulfilling gaming experience, and see where the future of gaming is headed, then these new PlayStation games are must have titles.…

Electronics Gadgets For Idiots: What Is 4G Connectivity?

Electronics Gadgets For Idiots: What Is 4G Connectivity?

For somebody who’s a techie, 4G is something you must already be familiar with. However, if you’re not one of those who’s fond of electronic gadgets, you should know that there’s more to 4G than meets the eye.

4G is commonly referred to as beyond 3G, a fourth generation wireless technology equipped with a more comprehensive and secured Internet Protocol. It is acknowledged to deliver users with higher speed and better quality anytime, anywhere. It’s packed with better features compared to its predecessors.

Contrary to what others may suspect, 4G is not limited to mobile phones alone but also in computers. If you’re someone who’s fond of watching videos online, you’ll find that 4G provides high definition videos regardless of your position. You can surf the web faster using any web-enabled devices you have by connecting them to the 4G modem. You can chat with your friends faster, hear their voices clearer and monitor their cams with no pauses and disruptions. You can also share pictures and videos without too much hassle. In case you’re going out, you can even use your cellphone to surf the net with 4G mobile technology.

So why is 4G highly regarded than 3G or other types of mobile phone network? We are living in a high-tech world where further technological innovations are discovered almost everyday. 4G happens to be one of the most advanced and recent mobile phone networks in today’s age. It is the network of choice by many since it is very accessible. It also has a very high data rate amounting to 100 Mbps and a very wide bandwidth capability which other networks fail to provide.

4G also has its pitfalls. Just like with recent innovations, there’s an issue regarding its availability. Sad to say but 4G isn’t found anywhere.

Chances are it is used first in highly urbanized areas before it spreads out to rural areas. To remedy this problem, various companies set 4G hotspot areas where users can go to and use it free of charge. In some cases, there are computers which aren’t applicable with 4G since it’s engineered for Windows.

Today, almost all kinds of mobile phones are suited for 4G. Conversely, many techies believe that smart phones are the best because of their quality digital cameras. Others use T-mobile and iPhones which are likewise 4G compatible devices. Another consideration will be the price. You can have these gadgets with or without 4G contract. A device with a 4G contract is cheaper with price starting at 199 to 299 US Dollars while those without a contract can cost you 599 to 699 US Dollars.

Switching to 4G is a decent decision you can make especially if you’re someone who’s into the latest technological craze and doesn’t want to be left behind. With so many features it offers, 4G is certain to modify the way you look at technology.…

Computer Science Degrees – To Do or Not To Do

If you’ve been trying to decide whether or not a computer science degree is worth investing your time, money, and effort into, here’s some food for thought:
According to the Computing Research Association, the number of new students in computer science programs continues to increase every year. A survey conducted by the association revealed that the total enrollments in CS departments across the country rose by 10 percent from 2009 to 2010*. What’s even more heartening is the news that this is the third consecutive year that total enrollments in computer science departments have increased-a far cry from the decline that the post-dot com era was witness to!
Does this indicate that the honeymoon between IT giants and popular offshoring destinations is over? The answer, quite simply, is no. But the trend does signify the revival of interest in computer science and other information technology programs amongst American teens, and more importantly, it also indicates that there is a demand for home-bred IT professionals in the country.
The computer science field, where the only constant is the constant evolution of technologies, requires talent to drive innovation of the kind that people like Steve Jobs achieved and inspired. And that kind of innovation can only come from the kind of deep technical skills that can only be developed with a solid academic background.
Benefits of Computer Science Degrees
If you’re still sitting on the fence as far as getting a computer science degree is concerned, maybe what will help you hop over is the knowledge that there are several advantages to entering a computer science program.
To start with, a computer science degree can open up a world of exciting career opportunities for graduates. Whether it’s programming or network administration, game development or mobile technologies, information security or tech support-the career possibilities for a CS graduate can be wider than you might imagine.
The degree also ranks amongst the top-paying undergraduate programs in the country. According to the 2011-12 salary report published by , computer science graduates can begin their careers with an average starting salary of $56,600. By the time they reach mid-career, their salary may be close to a hundred thousand dollars**. But no one will pay you that much if the skills you bring to your job position are not valuable to an organization looking to grow.
Additionally, those who graduate with computer science degrees may find it easier to pursue opportunities to move into managerial and leadership roles. It may not be hard to find an IT job with just a certificate, but the kind of problem-solving, communication, and strategic thinking skills that are expected of tech leaders can only be developed through a sound IT education.
And finally, the mind-boggling growth of social media and mobile applications has created very interesting work opportunities for IT professionals, working for companies of all shapes and sizes that are interested in pursuing the avenues social media and mobile computing can open up for businesses.
IT’s Business As Usual
Gone are the days when the professional world was divided into geeks and non-geeks. The geeks were people who lived in their own zone, seldom mixed with the “others,” and spoke in a language that was beyond the comprehension of ordinary minds.
In today’s business environment, there’s a seamless integration of technical and non-technical departments of an organization, and IT guys are an important part of the corporate team. They are expected to be business savvy, effective communicators, and customer-oriented in their outlook. Most of all, they are expected to be involved team players and demonstrate the ability to collaborate with others at various levels. A solid, well-rounded education that a degree program can provide can help you develop those strengths.
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Blogging Technology and Blogging Tools

Blogging tools combine all the basic functions of a simple CMS: content creation, content management, and content delivery are processed through a blogging tool. Other functions such as workflow and personalization mechanisms are missing. Like a CMS system, it can be easily connected even with additional features such as a blog search, discussion forums, and shop applications. To that extent, as a blogging tool, the mini-CMS are spoken.
The content creation can be inserted for each server-or client-based tool. Server-based tools such as , and are platforms available from anywhere. However, it must consist of an online access to the server to create content. For client-based tools such as for the creation of content, are available offline on your own computer.
Meanwhile, websites like , provide client-based tools through the entries for different server or client-based blogging tools and simultaneously prepare for an existing Internet connection that can be made online. These tools offer a number of additional features that make blogging. Basically, all tools give the author the possibility to insert images and links and carry out simple HTML text formatting. The GUI, in particular the client-based blogging tools, now look very similar to those of traditional CMS. HTML knowledge is needed only for the design of the website templates. Many providers, however, are supplied with a set of standard templates.
Again and again, bloggers and writers are unilateral, and this is reflected in the articles of the blog. There is nothing worse than boredom when reading. The mix makes it hot or simply not article. By changing representations and also encouraging to pack something else in the article, we derive again to remain constant readers and also browse through the article. Again and again, the emphasis is that we want to entertain our readers, such as entertainers and in words and pictures. A mix is not a guarantee, but a cross section through the possibilities of the range of articles we must start today.
Due to the vast multitude of spellings and the blog topics, I will just start times with the first 5 types of items that you should invite to the experiment. I’m sure you have used some types and you will again. What successes have you had with the individual methods? Did you notice a difference, for example in the comment section? I’ll be glad, if you let us participate.
Tip Article
A variant is often used to share your knowledge with others. The issue of searchers “How can I make something” very often refers to such items and it aims to achieve a knowledge-sharing. Addressing such issues, the bloggers take up a long time and they have solid knowledge of the applied subject.…