Get On The Train: How to Succeed in Adopting Technology Changes
I’ve been captivated by the chatter of late about technology changes: about Netflix’s business model evolving, the Windows 8 UI, even the new Facebook and Google+ features. Arguably, it is human nature (and, an American right by golly) to respond defensively to any outward pressure to adapt. Lately though, the outcry over the very mention of change seems to be reaching new heights. And while the effect of not managing change correctly can be relatively benign in the consumer market, in business it can have a far reaching impact affecting everything from employee morale to customer retention. In short, evolving the use of technology in business requires a deft hand in managing the impact of change.
The Gmail Man Video. Funny but true. You already knew this right?
Who knows how long this will stay up, but if you haven’t seen it already, enjoy.
Productivity Apps in the Cloud: Myth versus Reality
Rarely does a week goes by that I’m not engaged in cloud technologies conversations with business leaders. And, just as often in online discussions with other bloggers on the merits and deficiencies of the various platforms across this broad segment: I’m like a moth to a flame. Fact is, while I don’t consider myself an expert, it’s not from a lack of experience but rather because it’s moving a lighting speed and what you think you knew yesterday may in fact be irrelevant or impractical today. Still, I willing to go toe-to-toe on the topic with just about anyone on this planet.
Confusing Smoke with Clouds: Misconceptions of the Google Chrome Notebook
I’ve been monitoring with interest Google’s Chrome OS, which was slated to be available in 2010. For the unfamiliar, the basic premise is that of an “operating system” that consists of a web browser and from which all aspects of the computing experience would take place. I place “operating system” in quotes because the web browser is not, in fact, the operating system, but more on that later. While there have been numerous iterations of the code made available to the hearty geek community, there has yet to be a bonafide release of Chrome OS, even with the Beta moniker Google is so prone to use. But a few weeks ago they announced a pilot program that includes a custom laptop, call the Google Chrome Cr-48 Notebook, running Google Chrome OS. I’ve dutifully made a request through the program for one of the devices, but am not holding my breath for it. What I can tell you is that the general reaction from the reviews I’ve read is one of disappointment in the hardware, software and overall experience. This doesn’t surprise me, as I believe this is an example of Google over-engineering a solution to a problem that is less technical and more people and process contrived. But by manufacturing a problem, it gives Google the opportunity to manufacture a solution that hinges upon users giving up more of their personal and business data to the search giant.