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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News
20 Dec 2023
Mercy Ships network transformation nears completion
The tech upgrade brings expanded network capabilities to the NGO's hospital ships, with improved remote consultation and dockside medical services among the expected benefits. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Dec 2023
12 top business process management tools for 2024
BPMS is becoming a business transformation engine as vendors infuse their tools with powerful AI and hyperautomation capabilities. Read our review of today's top BPM offerings. Continue Reading
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News
15 Dec 2023
Small language models an emerging GenAI force
Enterprises are unwilling to pay for large language models to accomplish simple business tasks with generative AI. They're looking at cheaper small language models. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Dec 2023
How to make a strong business case for software projects
Every software project proposal requires in-depth research into the technical aspects at play, but the business case for the project should tone down the tech talk. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Dec 2023
Top 5G limitations and challenges for businesses
While 5G has advanced in recent years, the fifth generation of cellular technology still presents some challenges, such as wavelength limitations and cost considerations. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Dec 2023
10 trends shaping the future of BPM in 2024
Business process management is evolving rapidly as advanced automation, software integration, process simulation and generative AI redefine the way business processes are managed. Continue Reading
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News
14 Dec 2023
Technology inflation rate edges up for storage, IT services
Price hikes persist for professional services and cloud, while an increase in storage costs could reflect a return toward more typical pricing levels after a period of decline. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Dec 2023
What do admins need to know about the CLI for Microsoft 365?
The options to manage the Microsoft 365 platform are seemingly endless, but the CLI for Microsoft 365 offers distinct advantages for admins in the enterprise. Continue Reading
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News
12 Dec 2023
Microsoft delivers light December Patch Tuesday for admins
IT operations teams should prioritize deploying the Windows cumulative update to dispatch a critical MSHTML bug affecting Microsoft Outlook. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Dec 2023
ERP contracts: What you need to consider before negotiating
Negotiating an ERP contract is a complex process filled with many moving parts and stakeholders. Success depends on selecting the right contract and asking the right questions. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Dec 2023
7 top business process management benefits, advantages
Streamlined workflows, greater agility and scalability, tighter process controls, reduced risks, lower costs and better customer engagements are among the notable BPM benefits. Continue Reading
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News
04 Dec 2023
AWS customers grapple with generative AI shortfalls
Enterprises fear failing to accommodate technical immaturity, ensure data security and governance, prevent biases built into models, and correct the erroneous responses of LLMs. Continue Reading
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Podcast
04 Dec 2023
AI-assisted driving here long before autonomous vehicles
An AI-powered driver assist platform from Nauto helps fleet drivers deliver their goods safely. Using voice commands, the system acts as a real-time coach. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Dec 2023
RPA vs. BPM: How are they different?
Don't confuse RPA with BPM. These process-oriented initiatives are distinctly different but also highly complementary when planning, automating and improving business operations. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Nov 2023
Stop errors with these PowerShell ValidatePattern examples
Using regular expressions to validate input information and generate a tailored error message on a new user script can prevent unnecessary support tickets. Continue Reading
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News
16 Nov 2023
Cloud costs increase amid SaaS pricing hikes
CIOs face higher SaaS prices, with a new report pegging the inflation rate at 8.7%. The wider cloud segment saw a 3.2% inflation rate in October, according to U.S. government data. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Nov 2023
The push is on to build the autonomous enterprise
The concept of an autonomous enterprise is becoming more real as enterprises combine technologies to automate all kinds of human work. Welcome to the 'Autonomous Revolution.' Continue Reading
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News
14 Nov 2023
Microsoft halts 3 zero-days on November Patch Tuesday
Microsoft addresses 67 vulnerabilities, including six critical, and shuts down four bugs in the Exchange Server email platform this month. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Nov 2023
What should admins know about Microsoft Entra features?
Microsoft Entra combines new and existing cloud-based products and packages them under a new name. Learn how this change affects identity access management in your organization. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Nov 2023
How to modernize legacy applications
For many organizations, system upgrades mean investing time, money and resources. Discover how to modernize legacy applications with these critical tips. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Nov 2023
What is a digital transformation strategy? Everything you need to know
A strong DX strategy details an organization's current state, its plans for the future and the actions to achieve those goals. Discover the key elements that should be included. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Oct 2023
Top digital transformation trends and how to harness them
Amid ongoing economic uncertainty and the rapid advancements in AI, CIOs and IT leaders need to double down on five essential digital transformation strategies. Continue Reading
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News
30 Oct 2023
Data center power constraints send AI everywhere
Most experts agree there isn't enough unused electricity to perform future AI processing in hyperscale data centers and colocation facilities as GenAI demand soars. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Oct 2023
How AI impacts digital transformation
AI adoption is changing digital transformation as enterprises deploy the technology to improve customer experience, boost developer productivity and look for a competitive edge. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
24 Oct 2023
How to use ChatGPT with PowerShell to write code for admins
Use of artificial intelligence tools is on the rise in many industries, and administrators can tap into these digital helpers to improve their scripting attempts. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Oct 2023
10 data storage questions for enterprises to ask
Does top management support your organization's storage needs? Is the storage platform compliant with regulations? These are just two of the data storage questions you need to ask. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Oct 2023
11 reasons why digital transformations fail, explained by pros
Digital transformations continue to be challenging and are prone to failure. Learn about 11 fatal mistakes to avoid at all costs. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Oct 2023
How digital transformation is changing customer experience
Digital transformation and customer experience go hand in hand as organizations look to provide self-service options, highly personalized experiences and easier ways to query data. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Oct 2023
How to work with the new Windows LAPS feature
Microsoft updated this automated method to manage and back up passwords for local administrator accounts on Windows desktop and server systems. See what's new with Windows LAPS. Continue Reading
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News
19 Oct 2023
Cloud inflation affects IT spending trends, GenAI not yet
Gartner's forecast points to rising cloud and services spend. Generative AI is yet to strongly influence IT budgets, but IBM and other providers gear up for growth. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Oct 2023
12 digital transformation tips and best practices
Successful digital transformation requires agility, speed, cost optimization, technical innovation and cultural change. C-suite commitment and employee buy-in are also critical. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Oct 2023
PLM vs. ALM: Compare the differences
Company leaders must be aware of the critical distinctions between PLM and ALM. Learn each system's features and how they can potentially work together. Continue Reading
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News
10 Oct 2023
Microsoft tackles three zero-days for October Patch Tuesday
The company releases fixes for several products affected by the HTTP/2 "Rapid Reset" vulnerability to help curb widespread Distributed Denial-of-Service attacks. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Oct 2023
Is quantum computing overhyped?
Quantum computing may be coming to the enterprise. Here's what to understand about the benefits it promises, the risks it poses and how to prepare. Continue Reading
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News
04 Oct 2023
Capital One study: Businesses battle with self-service data
Technical, cultural and financial issues hinder organizations from enacting self-service data strategies that include business users as well as data specialists Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Oct 2023
Generative AI in the enterprise raises questions for CIOs
Technology and business leaders are exploring pivotal issues surrounding adoption strategy, architecture and the IT organization's management responsibilities. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Sep 2023
On-premises data centers play key role in distributed clouds
Enterprise Strategy Group's Scott Sinclair shares survey results on the benefits and challenges of managing distributed clouds. Data centers remain an essential part of the mix. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
18 Sep 2023
Why cloud governance is shifting to business stakeholders
Balancing value creation with innovation is a constant challenge for organizations. Here's what to consider when evaluating the long-term business value of cloud governance. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Sep 2023
What's new in Microsoft Graph PowerShell v2?
The company overhauled the new version of its software development kit and updated PowerShell modules that replace legacy methods for managing Microsoft's cloud-based services. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Sep 2023
What is the metaverse? An explanation and in-depth guide
The metaverse is described as the inevitable evolution of the internet. But what exactly is the metaverse, and what will it become? Learn what businesses need to know now. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Sep 2023
Walmart AI: Retailer taps employees to find GenAI use cases
The Walmart generative AI approach includes learning from its employee-users and soliciting their feedback to discover key applications and refine the technology. Continue Reading
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News
14 Sep 2023
Cloud pricing hits new mark amid multiple drivers
Cloud costs continue to rise, according to the U.S. government's latest pricing data. Wages, energy demands, emerging tech and consumption patterns contribute to the trend. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Sep 2023
Top 10 benefits of blockchain for business
Blockchain's unique characteristics address many business issues. Here are 10 important benefits of blockchain and examples of the industries taking advantage of them. Continue Reading
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News
12 Sep 2023
Microsoft solves two zero-days for September Patch Tuesday
Microsoft addresses 62 vulnerabilities this month, including a Microsoft Word flaw and a Windows bug that have both been exploited in the wild. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Sep 2023
7 benefits of ERP in accounting
ERP and accounting applications operate separately, but ERP systems can deliver valuable financial insights for companies. Learn about the benefits of ERP in accounting. Continue Reading
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Quiz
06 Sep 2023
10 blockchain quiz questions: Test your understanding
IT leaders are increasingly faced with learning how to implement blockchain in their organizations. Use this blockchain quiz to test your knowledge. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Sep 2023
9 quantum computing challenges IT leaders should understand
While the theory of quantum mechanics is complex, the tech might offer practical uses for organizations. Learn about the challenges and opportunities of quantum computing. Continue Reading
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Podcast
05 Sep 2023
Third-party support a new option for SAP S/4HANA Cloud users
Rimini Street CTO Eric Helmer explains how the company provides tech support and maintenance for SAP and Oracle ERP systems and where on-premises ERP fits in SAP's cloud strategy. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Aug 2023
10 examples of smart contracts on blockchain
Smart contracts are powerful tools for automating tasks on a blockchain. Read these use cases and understand the benefits and challenges IT leaders face during implementation. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Aug 2023
8 machine learning benefits for businesses
For business leaders, machine learning's predictive capabilities can forecast product demand, reduce equipment downtime and retain customers. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Aug 2023
The future of storage administration: 4 key questions answered
What are the best moves a storage professional can make? Learn about the skills, technologies and strategies to focus on now for the most payback in the future. Continue Reading
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News
22 Aug 2023
Opportunities, challenges of ServiceNow generative AI plan
The vendor said that while it is creating its own LLM models, it's not interested in winning the LLM war. Instead, it wants its customers to use the models for specific use cases. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
21 Aug 2023
How to set up PowerShell remoting over SSH
Microsoft recommends using WinRM to manage Windows machines remotely, but OpenSSH offers other advantages, particularly in organizations that also use Linux systems. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Aug 2023
How to kickstart a proof-of-concept IT project
Like any IT initiative, operations staff need a clear vision for a proof-of-concept project. From the justification to reporting stages, knowing the steps can bolster PoC success. Continue Reading
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News
14 Aug 2023
Cloud costs continue to rise among IT commodities
CIOs can expect higher cloud costs as the U.S. government's wholesale inflation index hits its highest rating for the technology category that includes this IT model. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Aug 2023
26 tips to get the most out of a conference
With conference season fast approaching, use these tips to show up prepared to make the most out of your experience -- before, during and after the event. Continue Reading
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News
09 Aug 2023
Several Exchange Server flaws fixed on August Patch Tuesday
Microsoft addresses 74 vulnerabilities this month with the on-premises email server platform returning to the spotlight with corrections to close six security holes. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Jul 2023
8 steps for an ERP post-implementation audit
A post-implementation audit can help determine if an ERP system is working well or not. Project leaders should consider these eight steps to ensure a successful audit. Continue Reading
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News
21 Jul 2023
AI hype far exceeds its use within enterprises
Experts say most organizations are holding back on spending while investigating the cost, legal liabilities and data privacy risks associated with generative AI use. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jul 2023
Exchange Online post-migration steps for admins
A move to the hosted email platform is an opportunity to streamline how users work with other Microsoft 365 services. But it requires IT to stay current with the product roadmap. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Jul 2023
IT hiring picks up amid ongoing economic concerns
TechTarget's 2023 salary and careers survey shows most organizations are hiring for selected IT skills, making progress on DEI initiatives and offering workplace flexibility. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Jul 2023
What's new with Microsoft 365 Apps on Windows Server 2022
Not every organization can move to the cloud but using Microsoft Office apps on premises might not be an option beyond 2026. Are the days of the RDS role numbered? Continue Reading
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News
13 Jul 2023
Storage, server prices drop as inflation eases
Server and storage prices declined in June, reflecting cooling inflation, but companies remain intent on containing costs and optimization. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Jul 2023
Top 30 IoT interview questions and answers for 2023
Do you or a job candidate have what it takes to meet the demands of IoT? Find out with our 30 questions and answers on planning, deploying and maintaining the internet of things. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jul 2023
Microsoft repairs 5 zero-days for July Patch Tuesday
The company addressed 130 vulnerabilities and provided additional instructions to fully resolve several bugs, which will require extra attention from IT this month. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Jul 2023
Today's blockchain use cases and industry applications
Though not yet a mature technology, blockchain is gaining ground as a sound and generally secure method for conducting myriad transactions in numerous applications and industries. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Jul 2023
6 reasons legacy systems are still in use
Staying with tried-and-true legacy systems can feel like the safest route. But as the world changes at a dizzying pace, IT leaders might want to reconsider that strategy. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Jul 2023
Replacing vs. maintaining legacy systems
Understanding issues such as which systems hinder organizational performance can help IT leaders decide which legacy systems to replace and which to maintain. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jun 2023
Tech integration partnerships can help boost IT productivity
Enterprise Strategy Group's Doug Cahill discusses survey results that show using integrated technologies from multiple vendors can free up IT teams for strategic projects. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Jun 2023
How to become a smart contract developer
Blockchain fundamentals, programming knowledge, security awareness, and experience in testing and debugging are among the major requirements in smart contract development. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Jun 2023
5 types of software architecture design worth knowing
While it's impossible to identify any software design style as the 'most important' to know, there are five major patterns with which all architects should arguably become familiar. Continue Reading
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News
15 Jun 2023
Server prices drop while cloud costs rise in PPI data
The U.S. government's latest inflation reading shows moderating hardware prices, which spiked in mid-2022. Cloud costs, however, have been moving in the opposite direction. Continue Reading
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News
14 Jun 2023
June Patch Tuesday settles two Exchange Server bugs
Microsoft's plans for upcoming security hardening in Kerberos and Netlogon protocols will have admins busy with testing over the next several weeks. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Jun 2023
Top 7 smart contract platforms to consider in 2023
Platform speed, scalability, security and smart contract development support vary widely. Here's how to match features to your needs, plus the lowdown on the major players. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Jun 2023
How to write an RFP for a software purchase, with template
Software buying teams should understand how to create an effective RFP. Here's a look at what components to include, along with a free, customizable template. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 May 2023
Learn about the Azure Stack HCI benefits for admins
The hyper-converged infrastructure offering promises to reduce the headaches associated with running virtualized workloads on hardware sourced from multiple vendors. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 May 2023
Blockchain vs. database: Similarities, differences explained
Choosing between blockchain and traditional databases -- or using them together -- requires knowing how each one handles data management and the skills needed to make them work. Continue Reading
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News
19 May 2023
Early-stage companies pursue the practical at CIO event
Startups in the MIT Sloan CIO Symposium's Innovation Showcase said their offerings tackle key enterprise IT concerns, from automating manual processes to cutting cloud costs. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 May 2023
4 tips CIOs can use to drive change management
CIOs and IT leaders should be key drivers of change management programs. Learn valuable tips for navigating complexity and scaling technology rollouts. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 May 2023
How one CIO drives business transformation through tech
Tom Peck, CIDO at Sysco, shares valuable insights into the key role that CIOs play as a transformation driver while managing emerging technologies such as AI. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 May 2023
Improve automation skills with the AD Administrative Center
You might know that you can use PowerShell to handle repetitive Active Directory tasks. But were you aware the Active Directory Administrative Center can help write the code? Continue Reading
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News
16 May 2023
CIOs take on organizational adaptability, resilience
CIOs and other tech executives are bracing their organizations to remain flexible in a period of unpredictable developments and bounce back when they take a punch. Continue Reading
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Conference Coverage
15 May 2023
Red Hat Summit 2023 news and conference guide
Use this Red Hat Summit conference guide to stay up to date on current trends, emerging technologies and information from keynote speakers and industry experts. Continue Reading
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News
09 May 2023
Light May Patch Tuesday will weigh heavily on Windows admins
A zero-day that targets the Secure Boot feature will require extensive work from sysadmins to protect Windows systems from the Black Lotus bootkit. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 May 2023
MIT-CIO event explores digital resilience amid disruption
Allan Tate, executive chair of the MIT Sloan CIO Symposium, shares an overview of the 2023 event, including focus areas such as cybersecurity and tech evaluation. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 May 2023
5 steps for mainframe migration
The complicated task of migrating time-tested mainframe environments calls for careful assessment, attention to technical details and thorough project planning. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
04 May 2023
Generative AI in the enterprise: Lessons learned
The use of generative AI in the enterprise is changing software interactions and customer engagement. Four use cases can help IT leaders better understand the tech's potential. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 May 2023
Unify business and IT with DevOps value stream management
Value stream management can be a powerful tool to align DevOps with the business by optimizing data analysis and improving collaboration and reporting. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Apr 2023
Get a grip on your infrastructure with a custom MMC
Microsoft provides great administration tools, such as PowerShell and Server Manager. But don't neglect the venerable Microsoft Management Console for its flexibility. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Apr 2023
7 generative AI challenges that businesses should consider
The promise of revolutionary, content-generating AI models has a flip side: the perils of misuse, algorithmic bias, technical complexity and workforce restructuring. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Apr 2023
Examine the benefits of data center consolidation
Many data centers have too many assets. Data center consolidation can help organizations make better use of assets, cut costs, and improve security and compliance. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Apr 2023
7 top generative AI benefits for business
This rapidly evolving artificial intelligence field has the potential to help organizations quickly generate content, improve customer service and develop new products. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Apr 2023
Tips to avoid a bumpy Exchange 2010 migration to Office 365
Now that Exchange Server 2010 and Exchange 2013 are legacy products, administrators should make the push to migrate to avoid becoming the next ransomware target. Continue Reading
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News
14 Apr 2023
Tech pricing dips slightly in March as broader PPI declines
Servers, storage and professional services all saw decreases in the U.S. government's latest inflation update. Will prices continue to drop or repeat last year's volatility? 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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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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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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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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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