We didn’t invent sliced bread. We didn’t manufacture the first microprocessor, or even discover the Internet. We don’t pretend that we can accurately predict where the Dow Jones will be next year – let alone the next hour.

We also can’t claim that we know for certain which technology is likely to be the “Next big thing.” But with over 35 years invested in this business and over 500 hardware and software installations engineered, we pride ourselves on anticipating needs rather than fixing problems.

So, here’s a quick snapshot at trends we’re tracking on your behalf (in no particular order):

• SaaS (Software as a Service) – Software companies will be delivering the utility of their software via a hosted environment.  Click an icon on your desktop and viola’ the desired software appears on your screen without requiring upgrades to the client’s IS infrastructure. (also known as ASP)
  
• Virtualization – Today’s PC based servers are so powerful much of the available performance capabilities are underutilized.  Virtualization is the process of running multiple (and independent) server environments (i.e. Linux, Windows, Exchange, etc…) on one powerful computer.  This takes less space, energy (green), management and is overall less costly.
  
• Synchronization (PDAs) – We need access to same information in the office, on the road or at the local coffee shop.  The process of synchronization establishes a link (wireless services) between your desktop data and your mobile device/s (PDAs).  This link passes updated information between the devices providing a homologous data environment.
  
• Co-location – Most small business aren’t setup to provide their network computer equipment the best environment (temperature, humidity, power, bandwidth, maintenance and timely trouble shooting).  Co-location puts the customer’s information system components in a professionally manned and secure data center environment (yes, it gets them out of the closet). 
  
• Hosted VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) – internet bandwidth gets faster, more dependable and less expensive everyday providing a great platform for feature rich and inexpensive phone services without the cost of purchasing new PBX (that big box hanging on your wall in the “phone room”) equipment.  There is greater flexibility and cost saving for adds and changes on the system and over all usage.

Want to learn more about any of these? Have your own thoughts on trends
you're tracking? Let us know - we'd love to hear from you..