Software Engineering

Is Watching TV Online Today Possible?

admin — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 15:58:53 +0000

PC TV is the latest and the best technology that the world has to offer when it comes to watching channels on television. Today we discus the three major options of watching TV online.

Option 1 consists of watching channels on your PC by directly linking to the free websites using an internet connection. You can simply log on to these websites and start watching various channels. These websites are linked to various TV stations that offer free TV channels across the world. These free channels are a result of TV stations making available their broadcasts to these sites. Hence TV websites are a good option for watching TV on your PC. The only problem is that because of a lot of requests from other users, the servers may get very busy and you may get a “Cannot Connect to the website” message.

Option 2 is to watch TV on your PC – this is not totally free. This is because you will have to buy a PCTV card and install it in your computer. A PCTV card simply enables you to watch TV online on your PC by catching signals from your local TV station. You may need to install an antenna on the terrace for better reception. A PCTV card may cost anywhere between $20 and $50 depending on the quality and the manufacturer. The package also includes software that you need to install. The software consists of a toolbar that enables you to switch channels and do other setting such as increase the volume, etc.

Option 3 is the most preferred option. Here you can simply download PC TV software from a site after paying a one time nominal charge and then get access to 3000+ channels. You don’t have to pay monthly subscription fees. The channels from different parts of the world are available in more than 50 languages. You can now watch private channels in the comforts of your room without fighting for the remote with other family members. The channels are displayed in various categories to make your search for a particular easy. You can even store the channel in the favorites folder in case you want to watch it again in the future.

By: Alexandre Frings

PHD Salary Report

admin — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 20:46:56 +0000

If you are thinking about obtaining a PhD then you will probably want to know how much money you could stand to make by investing the time and money that it takes to become one. If you don’t then you probably aren’t going to make it very far as a PhD. As they say if you don’t know where you are going then your lost.

The 2007 Average Starting Salaries in the US by Degree are:

- Bachelors: $59,391

- Masters: $73,939

- Doctoral: $86,183

The 2007 Average Salaries for PhDs by Job Listed in Ascending order:

- Assistant Professor, Postsecondary / Higher Education:

Description: Any Assistant Professor at a University. Also includes assistant lecturers and speakers.

Average Salary is $55,793

- Professor, Postsecondary / Higher Education:

Description: A Professor at a University or College. Also includes lecturers and speakers.

Average Salary is $78,306

- Research Scientist, Biotechnology:

Description: Jobs include Biochemists. Biochemists study the chemical composition and processes of living things. A biochemist studies many from the reaction of food and drugs on living organisms and tissue to the reasons for human growth and aging.

Average Salary is $82,222

- Materials Scientist:

Description: These are people at the for front of science when it comes to plastics, polymers, rubbers, metals, alloys and even glass and paper. PhDs in this field work on developing new materials with specific properties for use with specific applications.

Average Salary is $83,690

- Sr. Software Engineer / Developer / Programmer:

Description: Jobs include programmers and coding managers. Works as an individual or on a team who write, debug and deliver software programs.

Average Salary is $97,883

- Computer and Information Scientist, Research:

Description: These are the inventors of the computer world. PhDs in this field solve and develop solutions to issues in regards to computer hardware and software.

Average Salary is $105,714

As you can see if you are considering going for your PhD the computer industry is still the most well paid industry group in this class of education. More and more people in future generations are heading in the direction of computer programmer or CIS professional. The field at this point has managed to easily absorb the inflow of new-interested students and find jobs for new employees with higher education. In the future if things continue down this road it may become a very competitive industry where only the best of the best survive to work another day. For now majoring and going for a post graduate degree in something computer related is probably your best shot for a well-paid and prosperous future.

By: Kip Goldhammer

WWE SmackDown Vs Raw 2008 Free Download and Review

admin — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 16:57:01 +0000

WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 is a popular wrestling video game based on the famous WWE-style wrestling. It is developed by Yuke’s Future Media Creators and marketed by THQ. It is the latest installment in the WWE SmackDown! series of video games. It will be soon followed by WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009. Its first release was on November 9, 2007 for Europe and then later was released in North America on November 13, 2007.

WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 is a console game and available for console platforms only. It is available for Xbox 360, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable, Wii, and Nintendo DS Video Game Console. Players can opt in for either the single-player mode or the multi-player mode. The multiplayer mode can also be played online. It is the first WWE game to be released for all the seventh generation consoles. WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 is also the first game of the SmackDown series to include ECW brand.

Several different modes are available in the game. Modes from the previous versions of the games are also included. Players can play as a wrestler, or as a General Manager. ECW Brand is shown in accordance with the Raw and SmackDown brands. Now wrestlers have two fighting styles: primary and secondary. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages for the players. Special moves of the wrestlers are based on their primary styles. The player’s aim is to acieve “legend” status by winning matches, defeating other players either alone or in a team works.

Struggle Submission system is the new feature included in the WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008. Player can decide how much pressure to exert using the analog control meter. Many new weapons are available under ECW Brand. Even guitars can be taken as weapons. The PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, and the Xbox 360 versions contain Tournament mode where player can play as one of the superstar. Several match types like Royal Rumble, Iron Man Match, and Ladder Match etc are also featured in the WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008.

Depending on the platforms to be played, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 performs differently. Like Xbox 360 version includes customized entrance music, PlayStation version features first-person view during entrance, Nintendo version make use of touch screen to control wrestlers, and Wii version features five matches. Below is the download link for WWE Smackdown vs Raw 2008. Click on the link to go to the place where you can free download WWE SmaxkDown vs Raw 2008.

By: Nikhil Mahajan

Discover The Importance Of Computer Software And What It Is All About

admin — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 15:38:21 +0000

There is a huge list of different type of computer software. Today programmers can create any software you can imagine. Software development companies are increasing in number. You find such companies online based in India, Romania, UK and many other countries. At any single point in time, there are thousands of software jobs posted all over the internet like software engineering jobs, software testing job and software sales jobs.

What is software piracy? There are several kinds of software piracy. The bottom line is when software is pirated, the developer does not receive compensation for their work. Programs presented by Online Software Engineering Schools guide students to better understand the various tasks and specialties that aid in software product development.

Computer software:

The term software is generally used for computer software that is an essential part of the computer system. It stores and process all encoded information or computer instructions on PC.

For example Windows, antivirus, antispyware, Ms Word, Photo shop, FTP software and many more.

Software is the short name given to computer software. Anything, which can be stored automatically, is known as software. Both hardware and software are different from each other. They are responsible for the proper functioning of the PC by making them fit for use. Software is processed by computer systems, programs and other data. Being totally opposite to hardware, which is used to store or execute the software, software is connected with random access memory and then carry out the work in central processing unit.

Computer games can be categorized mainly into PC games that are played in your computer after installation using the CDs that contain the software, downloadable pc games, and the online games. Keeping a diary of your computer can be a valuable asset if something goes wrong. Imagine for a moment the consequences if your hard drive failed or worse, someone stole your computer. Use a backup software. Hackers are diligently at work everyday trying to find the weakness in your system so that they may be able to steal your personal information.

The world online can be a scary place and sometimes it can get downright nasty. From viruses and spyware to internet identity theft, the information stored on your computer is under constant assault and should be protected at all costs. Others would simply like to create trouble and destroy your hard drive. That is why you need antivirus and anti adware and spyware software. Most antivirus protection software protects your computer from known viruses and Trojan horses. If a new virus is detected, your virus software will automatically download the new definition so that your computer will be safe.

It’s a known fact that the majority of personal computers have corrupt files with errors on them. Problems with Windows Registry usually result in Windows crashes. That is why a Registry software was created.

Business software include, ftp software such as Filezilla, mailer (used to send out email), website design software such as Nandu or any other html composer, TomahawkPDF software (Creates pdf documents) and many more.

That sums up what software means and the different types of computer and business software.

By: Karl Sultana

Using SAMPLES to Help you Write Better Policies and Procedures – Good Idea? Or Not?

admin — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 14:34:53 +0000

Sample Policies and Procedures: Use Them and Suffer the Consequences of Poor BUY-IN of your Policies and Procedures

Okay, you are new to writing policies and procedures and you do not know where to start writing or find content for your policies and procedures. So you think: I will search out sample policy and procedure documents and use them as my own and/or modify them as needed to fit my needs. How simple is that? Unfortunately, the plethora of websites on this topic suggests that many people are looking for the easy way out. And in this case, the easy way out is the not the best solution for the policies and procedures writer.

While the use of samples seems like a simple approach, it has significant pitfalls with few benefits and the wrong use of the samples could lead to the policy and procedure system not being used and quickly turning to dust on a shelf or lost on a hard drive.

Do Not Make this Serious Mistake

The most serious mistake to make is to use the sample content as your own and NOT involve the users of the processes involved in the policy or procedure. Many policy and procedure systems have failed because the writers did not involve the users in the development of the policy and procedure system. Even if management has the authority to require users to follow a policy or procedure, the likelihood of success is extremely low without the involvement of the users in the policy and procedure development process. Trust me when I ask you not to make this mistake as it has consequences.

Unfortunately, there are hundreds of websites on the Internet selling sample policies and procedures and even complete policy and procedure manuals. The only time the purchase of complete manuals might make sense is when the topic is regulated by government regulations. But take heed. If you buy a complete manual on accounting or human resources, you still must involve your users in the writing and implementation of your policies and procedures. While these manuals might help you keep up with the latest regulations and requirements imposed by the government, the users still must be involved in the writing of the policy or procedure draft, in the laying out the logical flow of the processes involved, and in the distribution and implementation of the policies and procedures. What is worse is that you do not know if the material you are buying is current.

My philosophy is that you are always current if you do first-hand research and involve your users in the development of policies and procedures.

The pitfalls of using sample policies and procedures are:

The content and/or process flows cannot possibly represent the users, the culture, the environment, or the technology of the company and therefore, there is no way to assure buy-in of the information contained within your policies and procedures unless you have followed through the basic phases of policy and procedure writing. The writing style will be different from the style of writing (the words, the phrases, the jargon) currently used in your policy and procedure documents. The writing format will be different from the format of writing that has been adopted by your company. The jargon, abbreviations, and acronyms are likely to be different than those recognized at your company.

Benefits of using sample policy and procedure documents

You might find ideas that you may not have thought about. You might be able to derive new or modified interview questions to pose to your users to further the details required in your policy and procedure system. You might increase your knowledge if new jargon, abbreviations, or acronyms are referenced.

When to use sample policy and procedure documents

The best time to consider using sample policy and procedure documents is during the research phase of writing policies and procedures because this is the time you are seeking out information to discuss with your users. The role of the policy and procedure writer is to guide the users to the right conclusion and produce a policy and procedure draft acceptable to users and management. The more information you have at your fingertips, the quicker you will be able to reach that conclusion and hence, the time to complete the policy or procedure document will be shorter. FYI: Typical phases in a policy or procedure system include research, writing, reviewing, approving, publishing, distributing, communicating, training, improving, and revising. The next best time to consider sample policy and procedure documents is during the IMPROVING PHASE because if missing points are discovered, you can consider discussing the insertion of these new ideas into the revision of the policy or procedure document with the users of the processes.

What you SHOULD NOT do

Never use the sample policy and procedure documents as your own. And never make minor modifications, slap on your company logo, and distribute anything that remotely resembles the sample documents. Not only is this possible plagiarism, but your users are very unlikely to follow the intent of the policy or procedure documents because they did not have a say during the research or review phases of writing policies and procedures.

There is one case where this statement is simply not true: If the policy or procedure relates to compensation or benefits, the users will be jumping at the opportunity to read and follow every word of the document because the content affects them personally. Note that generally policies and procedures about human resources generally are written by a select few with the human resources department and in this rare case, the users are not questioned.

Finding Sample Policy and Procedure Documents

Government agencies, universities, and some consulting firms publish sample policies and procedures on the Internet for everyone to see, if you can find them. Government agencies and universities are required by law to publish policies and procedures on the Internet. Perhaps the best sources, if you can find your way around the websites, are State (U.S.) websites that use a format of http://www .state.xx.us/ where “xx” represents the state’s two-letter abbreviation. Go the websites of big states like NY, CA, or MA and search out policies and procedures. Another equally good place to search for websites are public universities like MIT, Stanford, or UCLA.

I have deliberately left out the obvious source of FELLOW POLICY AND PROCEDURE WRITERS because private and public companies often consider their policies and procedures as proprietary and their management does not permit them to share company documents with anyone outside of the company. In some cases, you might be able to convince a friend to let you peak at a policy or procedure, but this is probably a rare occurrence.

In summary

Write your policy and procedure documents based on a careful and thorough interview process with your users that support or are supported by the policy or procedure. Use sample policy and procedures with caution and only use them along with the research required to produce a successful, effective policy or procedure document that has the buy-in of those that assisted you with the creation of the policy or procedure document.

Trust me, your policies and procedures will gather dust or become lost on a hard drive without the proper buy-in.

Biography:

By: Stephen Page

Understanding How Document Version Control Software Works

admin — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 02:29:31 +0000

There are several document version control software that are available online. However, before proceeding to purchase one, it is helpful to have a better understanding of the concept of version control or revision control.

Version control, or revision control, or source control is a feature that allows computer users to keep track of their files over time. This is important so that a user can get back to his previous working version in case he messes up. In more technical terms, revision control is the management of revisions done on the same information unit. This is frequently used by engineering and software development companies to keep track of the ongoing development of their digital documents. Document changes are identified through a “revision number” or “revision level” which is an increment in the associated number or letter code of a document. Moreover, the name of the person who is responsible for a revision is also reflected in the revision control code. For example, a digital document is assigned a revision code number “1.” When changes are made to this document, its revision code number is incremented to “2″. Revision control features are integrated into various software types like spreadsheets, word processors like MSWord and Koffice and various content management systems. With this feature, a computer user can revert or go back to a previous revision or page in order to correct any mistake committed.

Revision control is a crucial tool especially for computer software engineers and software developers. It allows the former to keep track and control changes made on source codes. Developers of software applications also use it to maintain documentation, source codes and configuration files. Most developers create multiple copies of different program versions while working on updates and software issues like bugs. These bugs are present only in some versions so when locating them, all versions of the software would have to be run. The practice of retaining multiple copies of programs is often done in large software companies. However, this practice is heavily criticized for its inefficiency.

A centralized model is traditionally used by software developers wherein all revision control functions are made on a shared server. In this set-up, two developers who make changes on the same file at the same time may end up overwriting the work of the other. In order to prevent this occurrence, file locking is implemented. Files are locked to allow only one user to access it in any given time. Other version control systems have a version merging capability which allows multiple developers to work at the same time on the same file.

When choosing which among different document version control software to purchase, make sure to select one that can provide the needed version control benefits. This software is beneficial even for those who are not developing software applications as it can be used to keep backup files especially concerning ongoing tasks or projects. What is important is that the concept, lingo and philosophy of version control should be clearly understood so that the most appropriate software is chosen.

By: Sam Miller

IT Careers – Technology at Its Best

admin — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:10:55 +0000

Information Technology or IT careers are one of the most popular career fields available. Technology is all around us with millions of people employed in a variety of IT-related fields. If you’ve ever wanted to do something innovative for a living, information technology is definitely your means of doing this.

If you want IT career success, you’ll find it in the following careers in IT:

Software Engineer: Software engineering is probably one of the most creative IT careers. This is because software engineers literally design and build a program from the ground up. Software engineers enjoy a lot of success. They are responsible for determining what the program will do and how it will be coded. Software engineers create most of the programs that are running on your computer. Because software engineers are responsible for “engineering” a program, they are also paid very well. The median earnings for software engineers are around $70,000 a year, with some software engineers making close to $120,000 a year. The typical degree requirement for software engineers is a Bachelors degree in Computer Science. Systems Analyst: Systems analysts act as middleman between a business and a programmer. They are able to understand the needs of the business and then convey this information to the programmer. Systems analysts are proficient both in business and programming. Like software engineers, systems analysts are paid well, with average earnings around $60,000 a year. Degree requirements include a Bachelors degree in Computer Information Systems or Computer Science. Database Administrator: A database administrator holds a very important job: keeping track of the data. Most businesses have data stored in computer databases. These databases require maintenance, security and occasional upgrades. Database administrators take care of these routine operations and also provide support for the business. They make sure everything is running smoothly for the business. Database administrators earn $55,000-$85,000 a year. A database administrator may have an associates degree in Computer Information Systems or a Bachelors degree. Network Administrator: If you’ve ever been interested in how things work in a network of many computers, network administration might just be your way to IT career success. Network administrators are responsible for taking care of a business’ network. They deal with problems related to the network of computers. They install new network technology and secure the network. Network administrators must have a good knowledge of current network technology and be willing to change with the times, as networking is constantly improving. To become a network administrator, you will need at least an associates degree in network administration/computer science and possibly certification. A salary of $45,000-$75,000 a year can be expected.

The four careers above represent the many opportunities available to you in an information technology career. Take some time to do your research and determine what you will enjoy doing the most. If you do this, you will be well on your way to IT career success.

By: Jeff Melvin

Microsoft Certification – Add One to Your Resume

admin — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 16:00:39 +0000

Add Microsoft Certification to your resume and see how it helps your career path. Microsoft has created numerous targeted certification programs. These certification programs do not just offer a new career option to those who are looking for a career, but also offers skill enhancement knowledge to those who are employed in various career fields.

So let us start our discussion with how different Microsoft Certification programs can help you in your job.

Software Application Developer

If you are a Software Application Developer, then you should think about adding MCAD (Microsoft Certified Application Developed) and MCPD (Microsoft Certified Professional Developer) certifications to your resume. MCPD will familiarize you with skills relating to software development on a variety of platforms using Microsoft NET Framework 2.0. MCAD will make you an expert in application lifecycle from development to maintenance.

Those who want to enhance their analyzing and designing skills should definitely opt for MCSD (Microsoft Certified Solution Developer). This will give you complete knowledge of the application lifecycle from analysis through design, testing, development and maintenance.

Systems Engineer

For Systems Engineer professionals, there are several Microsoft Certification courses. A MCSE or MCSA would always be an added advantage in your career path. MCSE will provide you with skills relating to analysis of business requirements and design and implementation of infrastructures.

IT Business Analysts

IT Business Analysts benefit greatly from MCP or MCSD certifications. You can start with an Office Specialist Certification, which will make you an expert in using Microsoft Office products. You can then go on to add MCP. MCSD would be the ultimate certification in your field, as it would cover the entire application lifecycle from analysis through design, testing, development and maintenance.

System Analysts

As a System Analyst, you would benefit from MCAD or MCSD certifications. MCAD will familiarize you with the application lifecycle from development to maintenance. However, if you really want to improve your career path, you should go for MCSD, which will teach you everything about the application lifecycle.

Software Engineers

There are MCSD and MCSE Microsoft Certification courses designed for Software Engineers. MCSD certification will equip you with skills relating to designing and developing using Microsoft development tools, technologies and platforms. MCSE with provide you with the skills to analyze, design and implement infrastructures.

Technical Writer, Office Manager, Executive Assistant

If you are employed as Office Manager, Technical Writer or Executive Assistant, Microsoft Office Specialist certification is the right one for you. This certification is ideal for those who use Microsoft Office products on a daily basis. Specialist, Expert and Master are the three levels of Microsoft Office certification. You can start at the Specialist level. As you become more and more proficient, you can take exams to reach the Master level.

Network Administrators

Microsoft also offers MSCE certifications specifically designed for Network Administrators. Those who use Microsoft Windows and backoffice applications on a daily basis will now have the added knowledge to do the analysis, design and implementation of infrastructures, thanks to MSCE.

So irrespective of the field you are in, you can greatly benefit from all Microsoft certifications. First decide which certification will work the best for you and then proceed from there. These certifications will give you added skills to perform your job better. And this means a more productive career path. So find out which Microsoft Certification is ideal for you.

By: James Copper

How to Manage People – Keep Up With the Changes!

admin — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:27:31 +0000

Over the years, we have seen dramatic changes and evolution in the types of skills that a manager should possess in order to be successful. The business world is more competitive and fast paced than ever before, and a great manager can make a major difference in the amount of success experienced by any organization. The biggest change that managers have had to adapt to over the years is that it has become increasingly important that they understand how to manage people. A manager who knows how to develop good relationship, inspire, and motivate other members of his or her organization will not only have a great advantage over many of their competitors, but will also have a much more promising future than those managers who fail to understand how to manage people.

Not long ago, a manager of a success software company called together his team of software engineers to discuss the purchase and use of a new software program to help with certain types of analysis that needed to be performed. The manager had chosen a software program that he felt would meet the needs of the team after researching the different options available on his own. The software was very expensive, but it worked well and performed the analysis that the team of engineers needed. However, the manager noticed a great deal of resistance from his team members when it came to using the software.

Wisely, the manager called the team together to address their reluctance to use the new software program. He invited them to research the available programs and choose one that they felt was the best fit for the team. The team chose a program very similar to the one that had been originally chosen, and immediately they were happy to use the new software. The difference in the performance of the analysis tools was minimal, but the fact that the team who would be using the software was able to choose the best fitting option made a huge difference to the software engineers.

This manager learned an important lesson. Both software packages were able to perform the necessary analysis, but asking his team of software engineers which software package they would like to use caused the engineers to be fully engaged and excited about the new tools that were available to them. The manager was asking his team to make a change, but instead of seeking their input to make the change flow as smoothly as possible, he pushed his choice upon his team.

One of the key lessons to learn in managing people is that people don’t resist change nearly as much as they resist being changed. Change in business is inevitable and it usually leads to growth and greater business results. However, if a manager asks team members to help find a solution rather than forcing a solution upon them, there is a much better chance that employees will “buy in” to the change. It’s a subtle difference, but one that can make a tremendous difference and lead to much more positive results.

By: Ed Oakley

Software Testing and Quality Assurance

admin — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 22:44:54 +0000

Software testing can be defined as the process in which the tester aims at checking the software for errors and also, verifying that the functional requirements of a software are met. The system is examined under controlled conditions. The basic orientation is detection of faults within the system.

In this process, a program or an application is executed with the intentions of improving its quality. One strives to find the bugs within the software. As software industry has now grown in both size and complexity, so has its wide area of applications. We see soft wares in banking industry, in gaming industry, in management applications etc. Each has its own target customers and users. Before any software is launched, one must attempt to make an assessment as to its audience, customers, etc. The process of testing aims to aid in this regard.

Verification and Validation
Verification is a thwarting mechanism which helps in detection of all the possible weak points within a software before the process of testing actually begins.

Validation takes place after verification and this is where the concrete testing begins. One aims at finding the defects present in the functional requirements or the software’s specifications.

Software Quality
The quality of any software can be determined by the following yardsticks:

- It must be free of bugs
- It must be delivered on the due date
- It must be complete within the budget initially allotted
- It must meet all the requirements and expectations of the client

Software quality assurance
Software Quality Assurance or SQA, as it is popularly known, is a method by which one aims at monitoring the whole process of software engineering and take measures at appropriate durations for ensuring that the quality of the software is not compromised with. This is approached by use of audits of quality management system by which the system was initially built. A few examples of the quality standards are CMMI (Capability Maturity Model Integration) or ISO 9000.

SQA covers the whole process of development of any software and includes the design, coding, control of the code, reviews of the code, managing the configurations and the release of the final product. It is basically a method to control the processes of software development.

Advantages of SQA
- Improved customer satisfaction
- Reduced cost of development
- Reduced cost of maintenance
- Methodology of SQA
- Validation testing
- Data comparison
- Usability testing

By: Matthew Brone