While this change may offer safety and economic benefits, those of us in the "IT" business are once again dealing with date-related headaches.

Here is some useful information you should know about your computer systems, particularly if you are running Microsoft servers.

• Microsoft has issued patches and service packs to address the DST change, BUT they are charging customers that need to update older systems, such as Windows 2000 and Windows NT servers.
• Some software programs must be updated BEFORE applying the Microsoft updates; please check with your packaged software vendors.
• If you do not apply the automated patches, you will need to manually adjust system times on March 11 and again on April 1.
• The DST change impacts more than just your servers, desktops, and laptops.

Any device with a clock or that has time dependencies should be checked for DST compliance. Some things to look at in your office may include:

• Network routers, switches, and firewalls
• Telephone systems
• Voicemail systems
• Fax machines
• Time clocks
• Alarm systems and time-based security locks
• Thermostats and lighting timers
• And, of course, clocks

The DST change is most likely going to affect systems that use time to coordinate information, such as meeting requests, time stamps on voice mail messages, create and modify times on shared files, and entries in shared calendars.

Take a quick survey of your business and create an action plan for changing and verifying clocks on March 11. A little planning will prevent a lot of grief.

In recent newsletters, we pointed out ways in which smart technology firms aggregate customers' buying power to obtain lower prices than customers can get when buying direct.

Other intermediaries can help your business save time and money on technology projects.

Independent Requirements Analysis

Hiring a consultant to assist with business and technical requirements analysis before choosing a product or hiring developers will help you:

• Identify process improvements and efficiencies
• Make better Build / Buy / Customize decisions
• Match product capabilities to business needs
• Improve accuracy of development proposals

IS Program Managers

Systems integrators and software development firms are generally able to project-manage their resources. Without a focus on your business, they often fall short when it comes to user testing, implementation, and user training.

An IS Program Manager can help manage the full technology initiative, addressing project issues outside the responsibility of your vendor or service provider. Program Managers ensure adequate user testing participation and quality, facilitate process changes associated with the technology project, coordinate user training and documentation, and manage successful implementation plans.

Consultants providing requirements analysis and program management services do cost money. The up-front investment, however, will save you time, money, and aggravation over the life of your project.

The Executive Summary of the study, along with several follow up articles, are now available on-line. Providing insights into how some companies are able to consistently achieve and exceed goals, the study offers valuable lessons for any business owner or manager.

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