IT applications, infrastructure and operations
IT infrastructure and operations management excellence has become essential to maintain quality control over technology-related policies, processes and equipment. Read news and tips to assist modern IT operations and infrastructure management, including strategies to ensure the proper flow of data throughout enterprise applications and other information systems.
Top Stories
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Tip
04 Feb 2025
How to properly implement Exchange Extended Protection
This security feature can better protect Exchange Server deployments to prevent a wide range of attacks and safeguard sensitive data transmitted over the network. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Feb 2025
8 generative AI challenges that businesses should consider
IT managers planning to adopt GenAI can expect to encounter some hurdles, including cost optimization, workforce effects, cybersecurity concerns and energy use. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Apr 2023
reactance
Reactance is a form of opposition generated by components in an electric circuit when alternating current (AC) passes through it. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Apr 2023
prototype
A prototype is an early version of a product from which future versions are developed. Continue Reading
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News
11 Apr 2023
Microsoft mends Windows zero-day on April Patch Tuesday
What's old is new again as multiple security updates from the past made a comeback this month to push the total number of vulnerabilities addressed to 102. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Apr 2023
operational-level agreement (OLA)
An operational-level agreement (OLA) is a contract that defines how various IT groups within a company plan to deliver a service or set of services. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Apr 2023
word (in computing)
In computer architecture, a word is a unit of data of a defined bit length that can be addressed and moved between storage and the computer processor. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Apr 2023
organizational unit (OU)
An organizational unit (OU) can refer to different things depending on the context, such as an organizational group within a company that is intended to accomplish a specific business function. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Apr 2023
IT spending priorities point to cyber, cloud and data
TechTarget's survey of IT professionals underlines the continued importance of security and cloud initiatives, as well as increased interest in data management and governance. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Apr 2023
transport layer
The transport layer is Layer 4 of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) communications model. It is responsible for ensuring that the data packets arrive accurately and reliably between sender and receiver. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Apr 2023
session layer
The session layer is Layer 5 of the OSI communications model. It is the long-lived logical connection that persists between endpoints over time. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Apr 2023
Windows Admin Center
Windows Admin Center (WAC), formerly Microsoft Project Honolulu, is a browser-based management tool from Microsoft that allows administrators to manage Windows servers and clusters from a centralized, graphical user interface. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Apr 2023
Agile Manifesto
The Agile Manifesto is a document that identifies four key values and 12 principles that its authors believe software developers should use to guide their work. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Apr 2023
Pentium
Pentium is a widely used series of microprocessors developed by Intel Corporation. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Apr 2023
Outlook Anywhere
Microsoft Outlook Anywhere is a software feature that lets clients using Outlook 2010, Outlook 2007, or Outlook 2003 connect to the Microsoft Exchange server and access their email from outside the corporate domain without having to use a virtual private network (VPN). Continue Reading
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Guest Post
28 Mar 2023
3 strategies CIOs can use to improve IT's efficiency
In uncertain times, CIOs need to take appropriate measures to improve IT efficiency. These practical strategies can also strengthen an organization's long-term goals. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Mar 2023
Top 10 enterprise technology trends for 2023
IT investments underpin an organizational performance and help businesses gain a competitive edge. That's why CIOs and IT leaders should know the top enterprise tech trends. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Mar 2023
Deploy WebJEA to empower your users with PowerShell
Give your automation scripts a GUI that makes it easier for end users to get the information they need with a more streamlined approach. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Mar 2023
Sarbanes-Oxley Act
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 is a federal law that established sweeping auditing and financial regulations for public companies. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Mar 2023
IT leaders drive evolution of digital transformation
Some CIOs are redefining digital transformation, while others abandon the term. What comes next will feature smaller projects, higher levels of automation and a dose of pragmatism. Continue Reading
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News
27 Mar 2023
AWS public cloud advocate talks cloud spend, ChatGPT and ESG
In this Q&A, AWS' Mark Schwartz argues that a pure cloud future is inevitable to manage ESG compliance, test cutting edge technologies and weather economic turbulence. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Mar 2023
project charter
A project charter is a formal short document that states a project exists and provides project managers with written authority to begin work. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Mar 2023
project constraint
A constraint in project management is any restriction that defines a project's limitations. Continue Reading
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News
22 Mar 2023
Rockwell Automation manufacturer poll finds tech paralysis
Rockwell Automation's annual manufacturer survey found a third unable to choose technology and almost half struggling to achieve a return on investment on purchased technology. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Mar 2023
Improve IT efficiency with a PowerShell self-service portal
You can jump over the technical barriers that impede automation efforts in your organization by exploring how to deploy a web-based portal that hosts your scripts. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Mar 2023
management information systems (MIS)
Management information systems (MIS) is a department within an enterprise responsible for controlling the hardware and software systems that the organization uses to make business-critical decisions. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Mar 2023
How to prepare for the next version of Exchange Server
The Exchange Server roadmap charts several twists and turns that shows Microsoft deviating from its typical course with the server-based email platform. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Mar 2023
packet filtering
Packet filtering is the process of passing or blocking data packets at a network interface by a firewall based on source and destination addresses, ports or protocols. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Mar 2023
clock speed
Clock speed is the number of times a second that a circuit operates and is most associated with the central processing unit (CPU). Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Mar 2023
Connected product, a Bluetooth jump-rope, reflects digital shift
Crossrope faced hardware, software and marketing challenges -- along with the need to satisfy data-hungry fitness enthusiasts -- when it launched its first connected offering. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Mar 2023
IT operations management (ITOM)
IT operations management (ITOM) is a strategic approach to managing an organization's information technology needs. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Mar 2023
bare-metal provisioning
Bare-metal provisioning is the process of installing an operating system (OS) or Type 1 hypervisor directly on a computer's hard disk. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Mar 2023
Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge is a cross-platform browser created by Microsoft and installed by default on all new Windows devices. Continue Reading
- Definition 15 Mar 2023
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Definition
15 Mar 2023
antivirus software (antivirus program)
Antivirus software (antivirus program) is a security program designed to prevent, detect, search and remove viruses and other types of malware from computers, networks and other devices. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Mar 2023
Group Policy Management Console (GPMC)
Group Policy Management Console (GPMC) is a Microsoft Management Console snap-in that provides a graphical user interface that enables Active Directory (AD) administrators to manage Group Policy Objects (GPOs) from one console. Continue Reading
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News
14 Mar 2023
Microsoft stops two zero-days for March Patch Tuesday
The company corrects actively exploited vulnerabilities that affected Microsoft Outlook and the Windows OS in this month's batch of security updates. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Mar 2023
transaction
In computing, a transaction is a set of related tasks treated as a single action. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Mar 2023
event stream processing (ESP)
Event stream processing (ESP) is a software programming technique designed to process a continuous stream of device data and take action on it in real time. Continue Reading
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News
14 Mar 2023
Silicon Valley Bank failure might further stymie tech funding
While the finance and tech sectors shuddered after the sudden demise of two tech-focused banks, financial damage appears to be contained amid general slowdown in tech funding. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Mar 2023
lean management
Lean management is an approach to managing an organization that supports the concept of continuous improvement, a long-term approach to work that systematically seeks to achieve small, incremental changes in processes in order to improve efficiency and quality. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Mar 2023
device ID (device identification)
A device ID (device identification) is an anonymous string of numbers and letters that uniquely identifies a mobile device such as a smartphone, tablet or smartwatch. Continue Reading
- Definition 09 Mar 2023
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Definition
08 Mar 2023
hackathon
A hackathon, also known as a codefest, is a social coding event that brings computer programmers and other interested people together to improve upon or build a new software program. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Mar 2023
proof of concept (POC)
A proof of concept (POC) is a demonstration of a product in which work is focused on determining whether an idea can be turned into a reality. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Mar 2023
URN (Uniform Resource Name)
A URN (Uniform Resource Name) is a permanent identifier for internet resources that employs the urn scheme. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Mar 2023
Why you should plan to migrate to Exchange 2019 soon
An upgrade to the latest Exchange version will bring added functionality for end users and security enhancements. But it will also help ease the transition to Exchange vNext. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Mar 2023
hard skills
Hard skills are specific abilities, capabilities and skill sets that an individual can possess and demonstrate in a measured way. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Mar 2023
pizza box server
The term 'pizza box server' refers to the shape of a computer server enclosed in a rectangular and horizontally- arranged chassis and often installed in a rack with similar servers. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Mar 2023
million instructions per second (MIPS)
Million instructions per second (MIPS) is a measure of a processor's speed, providing a standard for representing the number of instructions that a CPU can process in 1 second. Continue Reading
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Podcast
28 Feb 2023
New SAP blockchain applications target B2B collaboration
SAP's Benjamin Stoeckhert reveals the most common types of blockchain applications, explains SAP product offerings and gives tips on how to get started. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Feb 2023
megahertz (MHz)
Megahertz (MHz) is a unit multiplier that represents one million hertz (106 Hz). Hertz is the standard unit of frequency in the International System of Units (SI). Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Feb 2023
hosting (website hosting, web hosting and webhosting)
Web hosting -- also known as website hosting or webhosting -- is the process where a web hosting provider stores and maintains website files and applications on a server to make its customers' websites accessible on the internet. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Feb 2023
10 key digital transformation tools CIOs need
A key responsibility of the CIO is to stay ahead of disruptions. Learn about digital transformation tools that could help secure an organization's long-term success. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Feb 2023
STONITH (Shoot The Other Node In The Head)
STONITH (Shoot The Other Node In The Head) is a Linux service for maintaining the integrity of nodes in a high-availability (HA) cluster. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Feb 2023
4 challenges for creating a culture of innovation
Successful technology introduction pivots on a business's ability to embrace change. CIOs need to encourage risk-taking while providing guardrails to keep deployments on track. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Feb 2023
Git
Git is an open source distributed version control system that is available for free under the GNU General Public License version 2. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Feb 2023
AWS Key Management Service (AWS KMS)
AWS Key Management Service (KMS) is a managed service provided by Amazon Web Services (AWS) that allows companies to create, control and manage the cryptographic keys that encrypt and protect their data. Continue Reading
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News
16 Feb 2023
Server prices on the rise as inflation still complicates IT
Technology products remain a mixed inflationary bag as server prices increase, storage costs decline and equipment delivery lead times complicate matters in networking. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Feb 2023
How to filter Security log events for signs of trouble
Certain accounts, such as company executives, will draw unwanted attention from hackers. Learn how to catch these targeted attacks by checking Windows event logs. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Feb 2023
enterprise project management (EPM)
Enterprise project management (EPM) represents the professional practices, processes and tools involved in managing multiple projects taking place simultaneously across the enterprise. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Feb 2023
Project portfolio management: A beginner's guide
Project portfolio management is a formal approach used by organizations to identify, prioritize, coordinate and monitor projects that align with their strategy and goals. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Feb 2023
Web 3.0 security risks: What you need to know
Elements of the third version of the web are coming to fruition. But Web 3.0 also comes with new cybersecurity, financial and privacy threats besides the familiar risks of Web 2.0. Continue Reading
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News
15 Feb 2023
Microsoft remedies three zero-days on February Patch Tuesday
The company releases its security updates to shut down the vulnerabilities threat actors have been actively using for attacks in the wild. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Feb 2023
Fedora
Fedora, also known as Fedora Linux, is a popular open source Linux-based operating system (OS). Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Feb 2023
Web 2.0 vs. Web 3.0 vs. Web 1.0: What's the difference?
It's important to know what might happen in the evolution from Web 2.0 to Web 3.0. Learn their differences and how the original web laid the groundwork for the internet's future. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Feb 2023
10 core features of Web 3.0 technology
Web 3.0 promises to provide what Web 2.0 can't: autonomy for content creators to monetize their own data through blockchain, decentralization, user data ownership and private keys. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Feb 2023
digital library
A digital library is a collection of digital objects, such as books, magazines, audio recordings, video recordings and other documents that are accessible electronically. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Feb 2023
Wien's constant
Wien's constant is a physical constant that is used in defining the relationship between the thermodynamic temperature of a black body (an object that radiates electromagnetic energy perfectly) and the wavelength at which the intensity of the radiation is the greatest. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Feb 2023
The biggest advantages and disadvantages of Web 3.0
The benefits of next-generation Web 3.0 technologies like blockchain and smart contracts get much of the attention, but the downsides include complexity and resource intensiveness. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Feb 2023
augmented reality gaming (AR gaming)
Augmented reality gaming (AR gaming) is the real-time integration of virtual game elements with the physical environment of the player. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Feb 2023
The 10 most promising tools for Web 3.0 development
Web 3.0 doesn't exist yet, but there are many tools for developing apps for the next generation web and bridging the gap from today's Web 2.0 infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Feb 2023
blockchain decentralization
Decentralization is the distribution of functions, control and information instead of being centralized in a single entity. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Feb 2023
Speed up onboarding with Active Directory user templates
Active Directory account templates are not difficult to make. But it helps to know how to use certain shortcuts, like variables, to create home directories and roaming profiles. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Feb 2023
Capital One machine learning strategy taps MLOps
The financial services company harnesses ML for several use cases and aims to deploy the technology at scale through standardized infrastructure and the MLOps methodology. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jan 2023
5 ways Web 3.0 will impact digital marketing
If Web 3.0 can provide greater privacy, more marketing reach and better targeting, the World Wide Web's latest iteration could ease the online customer personalization problem. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Jan 2023
outsourcing
Outsourcing is a business practice in which a company hires a third party to perform tasks, handle operations or provide services for the company. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Jan 2023
chief operating officer (COO)
A chief operating officer (COO) is the corporate executive who oversees ongoing business operations within the company. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jan 2023
ERP vs. EPM: Which should you choose?
ERP and EPM differ in several ways. Learn how the individual systems work alone, how they complement each other and how they can increase an organization's efficiency. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Jan 2023
project management
Project management is the discipline of using established principles, procedures and policies to guide a project from conception through completion. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Jan 2023
Web 2.0
Web 2.0 are websites and applications that make use of user-generated content for end users. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jan 2023
EDR tools for Windows Server compared
Windows Server 2022 comes with native security technologies to protect the enterprise. But endpoint detection and response tools can be worth the price of admission. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jan 2023
How to become a Web 3.0 developer: Required skills and guide
Web 3.0 may be years away, but blockchain and web development tools have been around a while. Prepare by learning the fundamentals and getting experience on the right tools. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Jan 2023
distributed control system (DCS)
A distributed control system (DCS) is a digital automated industrial control system (ICS) that uses geographically distributed control loops throughout a factory, machine or control area. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Jan 2023
Agile project management (APM)
Agile project management (APM) is an iterative approach to planning and guiding project processes. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jan 2023
decentralized autonomous organization (DAO)
A decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) is a management structure that uses blockchain technology to automate some aspects of voting and transaction processing. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Jan 2023
Technology diffusion strategies for CIOs and the VC mindset
Whether a technology investment pays off depends in large part on how fast and widely it's adopted. CIOs can take a page from the VC playbook to improve the odds of success. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Jan 2023
10 benefits of adopting project portfolio management
Project portfolio management takes a centralized approach to managing projects and focuses on aligning projects with company goals. Learn how it adds value to project management. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Jan 2023
soft skills
A soft skill is a personal attribute that supports situational awareness and enhances an individual's ability to get a job done. Continue Reading
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News
19 Jan 2023
Gartner halves 2023 IT spending growth
Gartner lowered its forecast for IT spending to 2.4% over 2022. The firm expects CIOs to be more cautious and delay some purchases while riding out the economic uncertainty. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Jan 2023
LZW compression
LZW compression is a method to reduce the size of Tag Image File Format (TIFF) or Graphics Interchange Format (GIF) files. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jan 2023
Gartner IT spending trends, PPI data show mixed economic bag
Gartner's global IT spending forecast reflects diverging economic trends as does U.S. inflation data, which shows a drop in professional services costs and an uptick for storage. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Jan 2023
Project portfolio risk management: Learn the key tenets
Project portfolio risk management is a holistic approach to managing project risk. Learn about its benefits and what can get in the way of success. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jan 2023
Project vs. program vs. portfolio management
Project, program and portfolio management are related, but they represent three distinct disciplines. Learn about the responsibilities and goals of each and how they differ. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jan 2023
Microsoft resolves Windows zero-day on January Patch Tuesday
The company also issues five corrections, all with a rating of important, to address vulnerabilities on its on-premises Exchange Server email platform. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Jan 2023
enterprise architecture (EA)
An enterprise architecture (EA) is a conceptual blueprint that defines the structure and operation of organizations. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Dec 2022
Multiple Document Interface (MDI)
Multiple Document Interface (MDI) is a Microsoft Windows programming interface for creating an application that enables users to work with multiple documents simultaneously. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Dec 2022
How to lower IT's digital carbon footprint
Digital technologies have a hidden environmental cost that too-few leaders have on their radar. Learn which technologies have a digital carbon footprint and what IT can do to help. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Dec 2022
FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis)
FMEA (failure mode and effects analysis) is a step-by-step approach for collecting knowledge about possible points of failure in a design, manufacturing process, product or service. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Dec 2022
Let EAs lead your enterprise sustainability strategy
Enterprise architects are well positioned to advise the CIO when it comes to the sustainability strategy. Their choices cut across the corporate infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Dec 2022
How companies can overcome the IT worker shortage
Research shows organizations are still struggling to bring in IT talent. We identify the reasons why there's a shortage and what CIOs and other IT leaders can do to combat it. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Dec 2022
2022 year in review: Top business topics
The business world saw changes in 2022. Themes -- such as the rise and fall of cryptocurrency, changes to social media and navigating employment -- are all included in this review. Continue Reading