big guns

Taking a chance on white box PCs

Mon, 14 May 2007 20:01:36 -0400

Instead of going with the tried-and-true big guns when it comes time to replace desktops or laptops, consider an independent builder of white boxes. Cost is attractive, as is their more hands-on, service-oriented approach. To avoid getting burned, check the certifications; that is, make sure the PC OEM you're using has Intel, AMD and Microsoft membership or certification. Secondly, make sure your PCs will come with the original Windows installation discs and manuals. If a PC doesn't, you could be getting an unauthorized copy of Windows, which is a big red flag. Third, be sure the dealer tells you exactly which components will be in the systems and who will warrant them. Fourth, make sure the PC dealer is really listening to your needs and concerns, and not just steering you toward what's on hand. Finally, ask for references.

Learn more about buying PCs from a white box builder:
- read the article at Small Business Computing

ALSO NOTED: Vista's encryption could be law enforcement nightmare; Friday next court date for BlackBerry patent battle; and muc

Mon, 20 Feb 2006 19:00:50 -0500

> Vista's encryption could be a law enforcement nightmare. Article

> Friday is next court date for BlackBerry patent battle. Article

> How virtualization can help boost better system efficiency. Article

> SOX rules could be eased for small and midsized businesses. Article

> Linux is Symbian's big competitor in mobile system development. Article

> Why behavioral biometrics is seen as a good security tool for e-commerce. Article

> Why the big guns are grabbing open-source startups more and more. Article

And Finally... The benefit of tapping your inner artistic freak. Column

Corporate exec tool boosts the business

Thu, 09 Feb 2006 19:01:36 -0500

A Web-based dashboard tool lets corporate executives plan, strategize, stay up to date and continuously communicate to the business. No wonder it's gaining ground and popularity among the big players. Research pundits estimate that just about 2,000 of the largest businesses have deployed such tools to the corporate office. They're taking root and being tweaked and massaged to provide in-depth data and analysis. That perspective is actually also having an impact on the management style and strategy of today's big guns.

For more on Web tools making a difference in business:
- read this BusinessWeek article