Week 8 - Summary

The Shaw Shower Management System (SSMS) is an entrepreneurial, innovative idea designed to eliminate the waste of time that residents of Shaw Hall experience while waiting in line to take a shower.  Over the course of eight weeks, the idea has evolved from the infancy stages to a concept that could actually be implemented.  I have strategized about how spreadsheets could help manage the system data, discussed the various hardware components necessary to make the system possible, explored different ways for users to interact with the system, considered the importance of computer networks and noted the various operating systems that could be deployed.  Specifically, I have decided to implement a web portal as the system's primary interface and offer an interactive kiosk in the actual bathroom.  I also met with several of my friends and the Graduate Assistant for Entrepreneurship to discuss my idea and brainstorm ways to improve it.

Even though our project comes to a close this week, there are still ways that I can continue to develop the SSMS.  If I choose to actually pursue this idea, the next steps could include typing up a formal "technology plan", complete with a listing all of the necessary hardware and software components necessary to put my project into action.  I could also work with a Web developer to begin work on the interactive, online interface.

The topics covered in IST 195 have been relevant to my entrepreneurial idea and valuable to my education as an Information Management and Technology major.  Although I do have an existing background in computing, I have certainly learned a few things over the past eight weeks.  I have thoroughly enjoyed the Blog Project, and think it's important to take time each week to express my thoughts on the Internet.  This type of content has value, both to the technology industry and to me personally.

Finally, I also wrote about a blog that covers all things related to Apple Computer.  This particular exercise encouraged me to find such a blog, read it and write a response.  Without this assignment, I would not have sought out this excellent resource.  However, I now enjoy reading articles posted by the "professional blogger" and will often take time to read his latest discussion on Apple products as I eat breakfast.

The final part of our first project was to read and comment on a few of our peers' blogs.  Please find links to my thoughts below!

Mike's Techno Watch

Joey's Kiosk for Directions

Jeff's Tracking System for Keys

Week 7 - Networks

Professor Rubin discussed the importance of the Internet and computer networks this week.  The Internet was originally founded for government purposes, designed to provide a means of communication other than standard telephone lines.  The 'net finally began to commercialize in 1944, and now the Internet is an integral part of our daily lives.  The SSMS (Shaw Shower Management System) is also dependent upon computer networks and the Internet.

The primary interface of the SSMS will be an Internet-based web portal.  Specifically, the website will allow users to reserve shower times, view statistics about the bathrooms in Shaw Hall, check appointment times, and receive notifications regarding bathroom maintenance.  The manner in which users will access this resource works in a certain way.  Initially, the client (a resident) will connect to the Internet with their personal computer.  Next, the resident will launch a web browser and request a file, namely the system's homepage: www.ssms.syr.edu.  In a matter of milliseconds, the server will respond to the client's request and send the file.  The webpage is displayed on the computer screen, and the server terminates the connection.  The process is repeated each time a new page is requested.

The basic principles of networking and the Internet are important for a solid understanding of information technologies.  With the SSMS, I would use a domain name so that users can easily navigate to the website. The domain name will serve as an alias for the web server's IP address, allowing users to remember words that make sense instead of a string of numbers.

With only one week left for our first project, I think the SSMS has evolved in remarkable ways.  I have decided to pilot the program with three of the five shower stalls initially.  Deploying the system in phases will allow users to adapt to the new procedure, while still allowing those more reserved residents to avoid the online interface and wait in line.

Week 6 - Operating Systems

This week, Professor Rubin lectured on the various operating system choices that exist in the computer industry.  The operating system is a critical component of your computer experience, as it manages the machine's hardware and software resources.  An operating system can make using a computer easy and offer many great features for the end user.  On the other hand, an operating system can also cause great frustration and trouble when it malfunctions.

The SSMS (Shaw Shower Management System) is an innovative idea that is computer-based.  Computers will be implemented at multiple levels in the system: one computer will house the data, a separate server will host the web interface and a kiosk will be available in the bathroom as an "info station" for users.  Each computer system serves a different purpose, thus allowing the deployment of different software platforms to create a unified solution.

The computer that stores the system data will likely utilize some version of Windows 7.  Windows 7 is Microsoft's latest operating system that supports pre-emptive multitasking.  This PC will be responsible for organizing all data surrounding the system's operations and usage.  The computer might log the shower times into a database, record shower temperatures, and calculate average shower times.  I think Windows 7 is the best choice for this part of the system because developers and others will want constant access to this data.  With Windows 7, the computer can easily be used as a data collection center while also being used for other basic functions (surfing the Internet, checking email, etc).

The server hosting our web portal might run a server version of Linux.  Linux, an open source operating system, provides a free alternative to Microsoft's server packages.  Since this machine will be used only as a server, a GUI is less important and a command line interface would certainly suffice.  Linux may also offer more advanced options for customization, and our network administrator may have more control over the portal through a Linux-based platform.

Finally, the kiosk located in the bathroom is intended to be a simple interface that displays up-to-date information about the system and its status.  This terminal could run any version of Windows, which would allow for easy updating from a remote computer.  Windows XP would probably be my first choice for this scenario, as the computer only needs to display a basic slideshow.  Windows XP would allow a remote desktop connection, thereby eliminating the need for a keyboard and mouse at the kiosk in the bathroom.

Operating systems shape our computing experience.  There are many different platforms available, and some are more conducive to certain purposes.  Although my system is still just an idea, I think my technology plan is a solid one.

Week 5 - Blog Review

Given that our first exam in IST 195 was this week, I thought this would be a good opportunity to post a review of a blog.  As most people that know me well would tell you, one of my greatest passions is for technology.  This week, the industry lost an amazing creative genius.  This particular man undoubtedly changed the world, making technology friendly and pioneering innovative solutions that countless users take advantage of today.  Steve Jobs, CEO of Apple Computer, passed away on Wednesday.

The blog I follow regularly is called The Apple Blog, www.gigaom.com/apple.  The Apple Blog utilizes multiple writers to provide complete coverage of all issues related to Apple.  Recently, the blog has provided information about iOS 5, detailed the release of the iPhone 4S, discussed how Apple's new "Siri" will influence the world, supplied information about accessories for the latest Apple products, brought customer issues to light, and more.  The blog is a comprehensive source of information about all things Apple.  Their homepage is updated with new stories several times a day.  It's nice that the website uses multiple authors, as it gives different perspectives and allows a multi-faceted view of products and issues.

One of my favorite writers, Darrell Etherington, offered several posts about the passing of the company's founder.  In one of his blog posts, Etherington explains that many customers have flocked to their local Apple retail stores to express their sentiments.  Candlelight vigils, post-it note memorials and impromptu remembrance services have marked the past 24 hours.  Authorities such as the President, the founders of Twitter and Facebook and other officials have all offered their condolences to the family.  Many other users have sent emails to Apple expressing their gratitude for Jobs' contributions to society.  In fact, all major news programs were interrupted on Wednesday evening to announce Jobs' passing.

As an Information Management and Technology major, it's important for me to keep up with trends in the technology industry.  I enjoy reading The Apple Blog daily, and I find their website to be a reliable source of information about my favorite computing company.  Personally, I am still mourning the loss of such an inspirational man and exceptional visionary.  I have no doubt that Apple will continue to be successful, but the incredible leadership that Jobs provided simply cannot be topped.

Week 4 - Input & Output

This week, Professor Rubin discussed the ways in which we input data into a computer and the ways in which we receive data from the machine.  The topics of input and output are fundamental to the basics of computing.  The concept of voice recognition was most intriguing to me, and I hope to integrate this technology within the SSMS (Shaw Shower Management System).

The primary interface of the SSMS will be the online portal, where residents can sign-up for their shower time.  In addition to the text-based web portal, I hope to offer a voice recognition feature that allows residents to talk to the system.  The webpage’s header might read: “You are welcome to reserve your shower time with the text-based system below, or you can interact with the SSMS orally.  To use the voice recognition feature, turn up your speakers, enable your microphone, and click here.”

After clicking on the hyperlink to enable the voice recognition function of the portal, residents could speak to the system and receive audio feedback about their requests.  For example, a user could state, “Bathroom Number One at eleven o’clock a.m.”  The system might reply, “Your time has been reserved.  Please proceed to Bathroom Number One at eleven o’clock this morning.  Remember to bring your Syracuse University ID Card!”  Although it would require some development, a voice recognition feature might make our system more convenient for endusers.

Personally, I think voice recognition is one of tomorrow’s up-and-coming technologies.  Although few users currently take advantage of voice recognition, the power of this concept is remarkable.  Someday, computers could be almost entirely voice-activated.  This might mean that you could start your computer, open a web browser, conduct a Google search and have the results read to you orally.  If this technology advances in the way I hope it will, your computer will “learn” your voice and accurately recognize your patterns of inflection and pronunciation.

I am enjoying each lecture in our IST 195 class, and look forward to hearing about other ways I could improve upon this entrepreneurial idea.

Week 3 - Hardware

The SSMS (Shaw Shower Management System) is an innovative, entrepreneurial idea that will hopefully improve the morning for residents of Shaw Hall at Syracuse University.  However, the idea is simply not practical without the effective use of technology and computer hardware!

This week, Professor Rubin lectured on the importance of computer hardware.  His discussion detailed the components that make up a computer, from the RAM and hard drive to the USB ports and Ethernet card.  The SSMS will require at least two different types of computers to function effectively.  A web server will be utilized to host the online interface.  When investigating web server options, I will look for a machine that has an advanced processor for the fast handling of data requests.  I will also need to make sure the server has enough memory to process requests from clients efficiently and smoothly.  A state-of-the-art NIC card will also be necessary; as my users will need the fastest download and upload times.

In the bathroom, I plan to implement a computer terminal of a different kind.  This computer is not intended to be a traditional workstation.  Instead, this 'kiosk' will be a station for users to swipe their Syracuse University ID Card.  My vision includes a card reader and a flat-panel monitor.  The computer screen could feature information about the SSMS and interesting facts about shower usage at Syracuse University.  After a user swipes their SU ID Card, the display could show a message with feedback - something like, "Thank you for using the SSMS!  Please enter the stall and enjoy your shower now" or, "Please slide your card again".

The kiosk installed in the bathroom will have different requirements than the server.  This terminal's processor and RAM are less important, as the only task this machine will handle is scanning ID Cards.  I could save money by purchasing a PC with a less expensive processor and limited memory.  Once installed, the kiosk will serve as an information center and be updated remotely.

Computer hardware is central to any technology-based solution.  Careful consideration is necessary to be sure you install components that are appropriate for your intended purpose.

Week 2 - Spreadsheets

All week, I have been pondering how various technologies can improve the SSMS (Shaw Shower Management System).  Technology is a cornerstone to this idea.  Residents will access an interactive website to sign-up for their shower time and swipe their ID Card through an electronic reader to turn on the water.  Another section of the online portal might allow residents to post their feedback on the system, so the project's developers can receive comments directly from their users.

On Wednesday, Professor Rubin lectured on the use of Microsoft Excel and the power of data that is organized in a spreadsheet.  Professor Rubin explained that in today's world, it is critical for information professionals (and any other professional, for that matter!) to master the use of Excel.  Data is important, but valuable only when it is presented in a form that others can easily understand.

There are many ways in which an organized spreadsheet could benefit users and developers involved with the SSMS.  We could collect data about the number of residents using the SSMS, the number of showers taken each day, the length of each shower (in minutes), the most 'popular' shower times and the water temperature of each shower.  This data could be inputted into an Excel spreadsheet and organized into various charts and tables.  Then, the most relevant statistics could be exported and posted on the interactive website.  This would allow Shaw Residents to easily see data about their bathroom.  Access to organized data will be especially useful to our research department, as they will be interested in analyzing shower usage and system traffic.  Finally, data on water temperature could be a great reference for Syracuse University's Capital Improvement Plan.  By implementing a more environmentally and energy conscious solution, we might be able to reduce the wear and tear on Shaw Hall's ancient boilers.

The power of organized data should not be underestimated.  Spreadsheets and charts will undoubtedly play a vital role in the deployment and implementation of the SSMS.