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 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.