Information Technology
June 2008 Archive

Microsoft Inches Closer to Enterprise Management Play

June 30, 2008 | The challenges of network and systems management give many IT technicians in smaller businesses ulcers. Trying to manage and troubleshoot a hodgepodge of increasing complex devices can be vexing, but help is taking shape on the far horizon
By Paul Korzeniowski

Cloud Computing's Strengths Play To Smaller Companies' Needs

June 24, 2008 | For small and midsize companies, cloud computing offers enterprise-class or even better, consumer class -- applications for far less than enterprises pay to do it themselves
By Fredric Paul

Mid-Market Heroes: Tech Implementation, Amish-Style

June 23, 2008 | When Lavern Schlabach introduced an ERP system and BI processes to Keim Lumber, a nearly 100-year-old home improvement and lumber company, he faced an unusual challenge: A predominantly Amish staff with little or no exposure to technology. But a slow, methodical approach coupled with cultural sensitivity ensured a smooth and painless implementation.
By Naomi Grossman

Enterprise 2.0 Tools for Growing Companies

June 23, 2008 | Bringing Web 2.0 tools into the workplace was a hot topic at Enterprise 2.0. From new products and services to the emerging technology trends, the show was awash in opportunities for smaller businesses to increase their competitive advantage by adopting Web 2.0 tools that can level the playing field.
By Naomi Grossman

How to Build Your Very Own Hack Lab -- on the Cheap!

June 20, 2008 | Truly understanding network security only comes with hands-on experience. Building your own hack lab can give you the skills you need to become a network security expert. Jimmy Ray Purser takes you step-by-step through that process
By Jimmy Ray Purser

How I Hack Your Layer 2 Network

June 13, 2008 | Many smaller businesses think they have to put up with lower end security because they cannot afford more expensive enterprise gear. Jimmy Ray says that's not true -- and he wants to show smaller business how to keep their networks secure, on a budget
By Jimmy Ray Purser

Online Data Storage: Keeping Your Smaller Business' Data Safe

June 12, 2008 | Storing your business data online means it's always available -- and it'll never get lost. And now there are lots of affordable options for smaller businesses
By Heather Clancy

E-Mail Archiving for Smaller Businesses

June 11, 2008 | E-mail pours into businesses every day and it never stops. How to turn that flood into an asset? By selecting an e-mail archiving system that meets their needs, smaller businesses can protect themselves from litigation, boost productivity, and ensure business continuity.
By Jake Widman

Mid-Market Heroes: Scuba Toys -- Scuba Community Dives into Web 2.0

June 10, 2008 | Founding a scuba gear company in a landlocked part of Texas might not seem like the best idea. But Scuba Toy's founder Larry Dague has used Web 2.0 to reach scuba divers around the world -- and create a community of divers that keep coming back for more
By Naomi Grossman

CEO Cheat Sheet: The Benefits of Collaboration Tools

June 6, 2008 | Smaller businesses can simplify processes and enhance relationships using collaboration tools. MIT Professor Erik Brynjolfsson explains how and looks at the technologies improving these tools
By Naomi Grossman

CEO Cheat Sheet: The Benefits of Collaboration Tools

June 6, 2008  | Smaller businesses can simplify processes and enhance relationships using collaboration tools. MIT Professor Erik Brynjolfsson explains how and looks at the technologies improving these tools.
Courtesy of Cisco Systems

Strategy Matters: Smaller Businesses Move Quickly to Strategic Alignment

June 5, 2008 | Even seasoned business leaders struggle to put strategy into action, focusing on the "what" at the expense of the "how." Because smaller businesses have more visibility into the interdependencies, conflicts, resources, and deliverables that often hobble larger organizations, they can move more nimbly to put strategy into action.
By Nilofer Merchant, CEO of Rubicon Consulting