MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

407

2011-06-03T01:29:00.001-07:00

Years have gone so quickly. Looking back, I can still vividly feel with all my senses the events that had happened to me in college. The trail isn’t that fair and smooth sailing but through it, I have learned countless things that helped me become and achieve where I am today and in that case, I will ceaselessly bear it in my heart and if given the opportunity, impart it to others as long as I am here on this planet. Life is but a big canvas and we have to throw away all the paint that we have on it. College life seemed to be a rollercoaster ride for me; it didn’t have monotony season for it was really like a dramatic-suspense-action-horror-thriller motion picture. Isn’t that funny? Though there were bright days when we had our victories for every passing (if not high) grades that we have for our subjects (not to mention the difficult major ones) taken and for those days that we are saved by the bell for our exams; there were also times of stress, frustration and depression. But I strongly believe that for every cloud, there lies a silver lining in it. I have learned to face and overcome every challenge that came my way. It doesn’t feel great to have failing grades, frustrating complex examinations, mind-numbing projects, wakeful nights and restless days but it has given us the chance to grow and do our better in everything, if not best. My college life was but a beautiful memory to be cherished forever. I learned to take chances, give everything and have no regrets. I know that life is too short to be unhappy. We have to take the good with the bad, and smile when we are sad. The fact that people change and things go wrong, I constantly bear in mind that life goes on, still. I learned to appreciate life all the more because of the people who were with me during my journey—my colleagues, mentors, professors, family, and friends who inspired everyone including me to pursue the goal and dream that I have. And now, I am overwhelmed with gratitude because God just really know what does make me smile and bring joy within me. Unexpected dealings came into sight but I learned to rise above them because I know that I have a big gracious God who holds and carries me in His hands. Smile forevermore!

soar!♥

2010-11-17T02:35:00.000-08:00

dream big. start small. think different. :)

Conversational Hypnosis :)

2009-11-05T01:28:00.001-08:00

It’s so embarrassing to think on how your opinions or ideas got to be rejected by someone straight unto your face. You have done and exerted a lot of effort to convince somebody or a crowd to purchase your product just to end up nothing but only you scratching your head. It’s even appalling to imagine the times you have been snubbed out from a job interview just because you aren’t good enough in it. Conversations you have done seemed to be a waste of time both for you and the people you are relating with. Perhaps, it is the greatest misfortune one may have. But people who are engaged with these setbacks must take heed on what I am going to say, “There’s a way out!”
Conversational Hypnosis is the remedy for this bad luck. Your mind might be crafting images of swinging watches right now, but that’s not exactly what I mean. Conversational hypnosis is a way to make people do the things that you want them to do, but in an ethical and rational way. It is the method of inducing hypnosis in people by means of natural conversation that tends to communicate with the subconscious mind of someone. And this is done with the
subject's eyes wide open and absolutely conscious.
The foremost intention in conversational hypnosis is to have the ability to help out people change their lives for the better. This is done through influence and persuasion in a covert line of attack. It should be that one possesses the right hypnotic language and conversational hypnosis skillfulness so as to accomplish one’s aim. Otherwise, one may struggle and end up being frustrated and aggravated.
This style of hypnosis has of great contribution even in the field of medical sciences. Surgeries are done successfully because patients are relaxed, confident, and calm in the whole duration of operation. It is even practiced by businessmen, advertisers and other professionals to have a positive response from their clients.
For some who wants to somehow help themselves, necessary steps should be considered so as to have a successful conversational hypnosis. These are:

Rapport-- – having good rapport with the subject before proceeding to hypnotic suggestions is a substantial part of effective conversational hypnosis. You have to relate and influence with the subject by plainly be in favor with everything they may say.
This is clearly a requisite since you will need their attention in order to guide them in an acceptable and open state of mind to carry out conversational hypnosis on them in a moment.

Confusion—this step entails the distraction of the subject with the topic you are discussing. You might be introducing or must create some perplexity to keep the subject in your control. This can be possible by orchestrating bewildering statements that would confuse the subject shortly and seem sensible as well

Suggestion-- This is where you begin feeding the subconscious mind of your subject with indirect suggestions that would compel the subject to think about the statement. When the mind is puzzled and you are trying to throw suggestions, it would strike the subconscious mind, and eventually lasts for some time to create a result.

Isn’t it great living life as if everyone and everything is in accord with you? Certainly, life becomes easier if one has the skills in conversational hypnosis. Having this kind of skill can be considered as a gift, an asset, or power. One must take in mind and must use this power responsibly. It should be that it is only exercised to make conditions better for one and all around you. When used correctly, significant improvements will be manifested in one’s existence.

something about dog training :)

2009-11-05T01:22:00.000-08:00

Man’s best friend, yes they are. Commonly found at homes, dogs can be relied upon and trusted by their owners from simple chores to rescuing lives. Seemingly, they ought to be treated right, given with proper care, love and concern. Well brought-up dogs are endowed with the appropriate management that they need. It is substantial that there is a good relationship between the dog and owner. Otherwise, the one that is well thought-out to be man’s best friend would happen to be one’s most horrifying enemy.

Well-adjusted dogs are safe to be with at one’s private residence. In contrast, dogs with outrageous behavior and doesn’t know how to obey his master’s commands would end up being a nuisance to the public, even threatens those that are in one’s home, in the streets and to other dogs as well. Dogs do not figure out basic obedience on their own; they must be trained.
Obedience plays a big part in the dog and owner relationship. They do have a pack mentality, which means, they simply follow a leader; it is now then important that the dog knows who his master is. It is of high regard that the dog recognizes the status of their relationship with his owner. Basically, this is part of a responsible dog ownership.
Dog training is the process of teaching a dog to carry out certain actions in response to definite commands which the dog is trained to understand. They may be trained to go after obedience commands, execute tricks casually or for circus acts, be a guide dog to lead the blind, be a rescue dog to find victims of a disaster, be a hunting dog to aid in hunting, aid in herding, tracking, coursing, and retrieving, follow agility commands, and serve as a guard animal.
True that the hardest part of training is communicating with the dog in a humane way that he understands. They need to be showered with affection and importance but not comes to a point that the owner loses his sight of being the dog’s master. Dogs call for reward with their desired behavior but their undesired manners should not be tolerated but instead corrected.
Trained dogs would ensure confidence to the owner that given with a definite situation; the master is aware how his pet would respond. There are certain professional dog trainers that will help to make better a dog’s behavior. They train the dog’s guardian to train his dog. To be most effectual, the guardian must bring into play and reinforce the techniques being taught to the dog. Guardians and dogs who attend class together have an opportunity to learn more about each other and how to work mutually under a trainer's supervision. Training is most effective if all those who handle the dog engage in the training to ensure consistent commands, methods, and enforcement. Classes also help socialize a dog to other people and dogs. Training classes are offered by many kennels, pet stores, and independent trainers.
Having a pet dog is not only about nourishing him with a healthy diet, exercising him and providing for his other basic needs. A dog needs to be mentally fit, and trained to know his role in the world.

Getting to know Rapid Domain Builder

2009-10-18T22:58:00.000-07:00

It is undeniably true that any transaction whether personal or of business matters, could be simplified and upgraded through the aid of the WorldWideWeb. With just a few clicks on the mouse you are holding, the entire world is within your reach. You get what you want in just a short matter of time. In our trend nowadays, people always seek for what’s the swiftest line of attack to cut down time, money and effort.
Business deals, particularly, becomes more efficient and competent if it has its own website knowing that Internet technology has the power to boost one’s revenue briskly. Primarily, prior to the ownership of a website, one must know on how to do so. Anyone has the freedom to choose domain or domains depending on the needs and one’s preference. Domain name is simply the primary name of a website. To cite one, Zipsite.com is the domain name, for example. The .com part of the domain name is the extension. Basically, any word or phrase can be a domain and since there are factually dozens of extensions, there are billions of possible domain name combinations.
To possibly create a domain or domain name, one must:

• First and foremost, make sure that the email address and contact information being given when registering a domain name is accurate.

• Privacy: One of the deluxe options you will be offered at the time of domain name registration is the option for privacy. All domain names are listed in a large internet database called the WhoIs database. Without adding privacy to the registration, contact info, including name, address, phone, email, etc. all become public information, and readily accessible to spammers, telemarketers, and junk mailers. Private domain name registration is not mandatory and will not block all spam, but it is well worth the extra investment nonetheless.

• Business Registration: This next option concerns how the domain name is perceived in the WhoIs database and by the search engines. If one’s planned website involves commercial interests, this is a highly recommended option as well. Business registration places the domain name in WhoIs as a business, rather than a personal registration, and lists by business category and subcategory. There is also an option to place an online business card and a link to a map to one’s store location, which will show up on the search engines. This also boosts one’s standing with the search engines; ie., business vs. personal.

• Platinum Registration: This option protects the domain name from domain name hijack. In the event that one gives others to access on the account, such as when hiring a web author to build one’s website, Platinum Registration locks the domain name down in such a way that no one can modify or steal it in any way.

For expanding businesses and organizations in the e-commerce world, more likely, they have countless domains. Eventually, managing all of these domains would give hassle on their part. There are a lot of achievable solutions to address with this concern. But the best way to counter it is through the Rapid Domain Builder. The name says it all—rapid. Let’s take time to comprehend on what Rapid Domain Builder is all about.

• The Domain Manager manages all the domains on one page and it trends and data import and export.
• It has Niche types to leverage one’s Niche Domains – one custom solution is not enough to power a hundred domains. A specific Niche Framework is needed to build value to a certain Niche domain. Rapid Domain Builder allows one to build domain on a variety of Niche frameworks pre-built to satisfy the needs of a certain Niche market. No other platform gives the ability to manage and build out one’s domain portfolio using a variety or a mix of open source, internal and custom or commercial Niche platform.

The power of the features of Rapid Domain Builder such as: Niche Community Portals, Specific Information Based Portals, Affiliate Based Portals, and Application Provider makes available of premium benefits. It lets one monetize its members through the monetization campaigns, members enjoy the free apps and services and they could also avail either of the Free or Paid Registration for the purchase of the product. Monetization occurs through the PPC on App Pages, Shops and Products, and by Reselling the services.
Moreover, it is completely customizable. Within just one Dashboard, one can own a server, hosting requirements, database and FTP. This denotes that one can choose which hosting he would like for the domains to be on; one can choose a particular domain to have a simple hosted server or another domain to have a more robust one.
Rapid Domain Builder also introduces Vertical Domain Development—a way to develop domains using CMS, portals and create a live, interactive community that will allow more repeat traffic and is a great way to get more value for one’s domain. It is the smart way to go in monetizing or getting value on one’s domains portfolio using domain tools that will actively engage the visitor to participate instantly and create more traffic and more income in PPC, paid inbound links, and premium subscriptions.

this one's for you..:-)

2009-10-07T03:24:00.000-07:00

CROSSROAD

It doesn’t go with me well
To look back to the days,
Recount all the stories,
Know the reasons,
And one by one to you I will tell
Why my heart is now surrounded with blithe…
But here’s for sure, it is not a myth.
In this world of diversity
Where we all know
That billions of people come and go,
Our roads have crossed.
Though, as I remember, I did not pause.

We head for different destinations
And we go for many twists and turns.
There are many detours
And so are with the diversions.

As we journey to the same road we share,
I want you to know, there’s a joy I bear.
An odd feeling I’ve never had before
I wish it’ll be forever, i implore.

But this road certainly has an end.
We will separate our ways
And with our own courses, we will face.
When that day comes,
Melancholic, I will be…
Sadness will encircle me…

The time I perceived, it just made me smile
To travel with you for another million mile.
To know we’re heading the same way,
It amazes me…
What will happen next?
Let us see, come what may.

It’s oh so strange to ponder,
Why it all happened for a while, I just wonder…
When simple things turned out to be
The most adventurous and exciting ride for me.

A Love Letter...

2009-09-30T05:57:00.001-07:00

My child,

You may not know me, but I know everything about you (Psalm 139:1)
I know when you sit down and when you rise up (Psalm 139:2)
I am familiar with all your ways (Psalm 139:3)
Even the very hairs on your head are numbered (Matthew 10:29-31)
For you were made in my image (Genesis 1:27)

In me you live and move and have your being (Acts 17:28)
For you are my offspring (Acts 17:28)
I knew you even before you were conceived (Jeremiah 1:4-5)
I chose you when I planned creation (Ephesians 1:11-12)
You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book (Psalm 139:15-16)

I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live (Acts 17:26)
You are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14)
I knit you together in your mother's womb (Psalm 139:13)
And brought you forth on the day you were born (Psalm 71:6)
I have been misrepresented by those who don't know me (John 8:41-44)

I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love (1 John 4:16)
And it is my desire to lavish my love on you (1 John 3:1)
Simply because you are my child and I am your Father (1 John 3:1)
I offer you more than your earthly father ever could (Matthew 7:11)
For I am the perfect father (Matthew 5:48)

Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand (James 1:17)
For I am your provider and I meet all your needs (Matthew 6:31-33)
My plan for your future has always been filled with hope (Jeremiah 29:11)
Because I love you with an everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3)
My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore (Psalms 139:17-18)

And I rejoice over you with singing (Zephaniah 3:17)
I will never stop doing good to you (Jeremiah 32:40)
For you are my treasured possession (Exodus 19:5)
I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul (Jeremiah 32:41)
And I want to show you great and marvelous things (Jeremiah 33:3)

If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me (Deuteronomy 4:29)
Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4)
For it is I who gave you those desires (Philippians 2:13)
I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine (Ephesians 3:20)
For I am your greatest encourager (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17)

I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)
When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you (Psalm 34:18)
As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close to my heart (Isaiah 40:11)
One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes (Revelation 21:3-4)
And I'll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth (Revelation 21:3-4)

I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus (John 17:23)
For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed (John 17:26)
He is the exact representation of my being (Hebrews 1:3)
He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you (Romans 8:31)
And to tell you that I am not counting your sins (2 Corinthians 5:18-19)

Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled (2 Corinthians 5:18-19)
His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you (1 John 4:10)
I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love (Romans 8:31-32)
If you receive the gift of my son Jesus, you receive me (1 John 2:23)
And nothing will ever separate you from my love again (Romans 8:38-39)

Come home and I'll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen (Luke 15:7)
I have always been Father, and will always be Father (Ephesians 3:14-15)
My question is, Will you be my child? (John 1:12-13)
I am waiting for you (Luke 15:11-32)

Love, Your Dad.
Almighty God

Was it a good decision?

2009-06-29T13:00:00.000-07:00

What do you think is/are the reasons why the university decided to tapped in-house resources, was it a good decision? (1000 words)

The most important component of any organization or company is its workforce, the people, the greatest asset they say. Asset they are considered, because they greatly contribute to the growth and development of a certain business. Without them, everything would be futile and is just a big waste. Organizations, obviously, are composed of different employees with their corresponding specialties in their own fields. Some of them are needed at its maximum rate while others are not so. But both contribute, and are essential in the organization. The people or the human resources make all things possible inside the organization aside from its managing and the money. A great factor that a certain company should note is that they are aware that the workforce they have are highly effective and are really efficient to avoid future complications. This is vital so that the organization would utilize their available resources. Utilizing the available resources in an organization is a good indicator that there is or are assets that are of quality. Some organizations would make the most of their manpower in order to cut off the expenditures they are paying. This would also mean a big opportunity of promotion in the part of the employees.

In the case of the university, it became an issue when they decided to tap in-house resources; a huge issue especially in the community of the Institute of Computing. This was not concealed in the knowledge of the IC students since the resources that have been tapped in are their own professors, or our professors I may say. They were Mr. Michaelangelo Z. Cagape and Mrs. Tamara Cher R. Mercado. Mr. Cagape was our professor for about two years in our database subjects and I could proudly say that he is really good in it, it is his expertise. He was good enough to become a professor in the Institute of Computing. He also handled the Software Engineering class last semester which we belong to. On the other hand, Ma’am Tammy just recently arrived from Korea, (honestly I do not know her that much but they say she is really good in her profession) bringing a brand new knowledge that she could have shared to the fortunate faculty and students of the Institute of Computing, was our professor in Systems Analysis and Design I. About a month or two, we were just shocked when a news spread and was eventually confirmed that they will let go of the subjects they are handling., for the primary reason that they will be working on with the new payroll system. This would mean that other IC instructor or professor will be handling it. We were alarmed with this because it truly affected our learning. For almost one month, we did not have class at all. We were for a moment discouraged because we will be starting all over again. New professors, scheme of teaching and learning, and somehow, adapting with our new professors. It was a disaster that lasted for not so long until Ma’am Faiza Alim became our new Software Engineering instructor and for our Systems Analysis and Design I, Mr. Randy S. Gamboa…(whooooh! This was at first very crucial to accept knowing that RSG is a not-easy-to pass-the-subject person..hahaha) But later on, things began to ran smoothly.

The question in here is that was it really a good decision that the university tapped in-housing. If I would be asked, my answer would be two-sided. This is for the reason that I will be considering two different views. Having a short review with the definition of in-housing or insourcing, this means utilizing the existing resources inside an organization and making use of the potentials that are existing. In the case of the university, they have looked at the pool of their employees that already possess the skills to take on specialty work (And yes, they are Ma’am Tammy and Sir Cagape). During the previous year or years, the university has been spending a huge amount to a particular organization for its payroll system. If being computed, it will almost reach about a million pesos (that’s a no joke amount). Yes, it’s really big. This might be the main reason why the university decided to adopt inhousing, to cut its operational cost. This could be possibly an excuse for them to really pursue insourcing. This is good for both parties, they both benefited. The development team (Mr. Cagape and Ma’am Tammy) are given extra credits in their work not to mention that they have really exercised and put into practice their proficiency in our university that eventually will become their legacy. Somehow, it will be uplifting in the spirit if someone believes in your ability, right? It is also a great honor indeed. My other point in here is that if the university continues to adopt inhousing and later, the students will suffer in the end, it’s much better to think again. This is risky since there are hardly any skilled and experienced instructors and professors in our university. The knowledge that could have been relayed and taught to the students that only they could give has just dissipated. Although, we are called to be a state university, this doesn’t mean that all of the professors and instructors in here are doing great. Definitely, inhousing has its advantages and disadvantages as what I have mentioned above. Was it really a good decision? In a broad sense, yes it is, because majority has benefited, to say, the entire university, and that includes the community of Institute of Computing.

a day with sir al and his company

2009-03-25T06:25:00.000-07:00

sheryl, mariechelle, rosinni, and i in action with sir al at imageworld...:-)

Why God created woman from man’s rib?

2009-03-25T06:01:00.000-07:00

When I created the heavens, and the earth, I spoke them into being. When I created man, I formed him from dust of the earth and breathed life into his nostrils. I allowed a deep sleep to come over him so I could patiently and perfectly fashion you. Man was put to sleep so that h could not interfere with the creativity. I created you perfectly and beautifully. Your characteristics are as the rib, strong yet delicate and fragile. You provide protection for the most delicate organ in a man, his heart.

His heart is the center of his being; his lungs hold the breath of life. The rib cage will allow itself to be broken before it will allow damage to the heart. Support man as the rib cage supports the body. You were not taken from his feet to be under him, nor were u taken from his head to be above him. You were taken from his side to stand beside him and be held close to his side. You are my perfect angel. You are my beautiful little girl. You have grown to be a splendid woman of excellence, and my eyes feel when I see the virtue in your heart.
Your eyes: don’t change them.
Your lips: how lovely when they part in prayer.
Your nose so perfect in form, your hands so gentle to touch. I’ve caressed your face in your deepest sleep; I’ve held your heart close to mine. Of all that lives and breathes, you are the most like me. You are special because you are the extension of Me.

Man represents my image. WOMAN—my emotion.
Together, you represent the totality of God.

analysis strategy and plan

2009-03-25T05:16:00.000-07:00

Analysis Strategy

As our group has evaluated, we have agreed to pursue some procedures on how to acquire information for our analysis. The information that will be gathered will become the basis for the thorough development of our system. A strategy is a plan of action designed to achieve a particular goal (Wikipedia.org). These strategies will help us lead to attain our primary target, that is, to create a system that will somehow eventually be a help for the university’s own benefit.
In order for the group to acquire the necessary information, we first analyzed to whom we will address our concerns. With our discussion and brainstorming activity, we have seen that the primary variables involved are the people behind the university publication and some of the college publications as well. They are the ones well versed regarding the operations that will be the basis for us to come up with the As-Is and To-Be System. With this setting, the group will perform some information gathering techniques that will make way for us to gather the necessary data that we need. This approach will be of great contribution for the in-depth and thorough analysis and development of our proposed system. The procedures to be used are:
Interviews – these will inquire the respondents about the processes and other essential details about the services that they have.
Record Assessment – review of the recorded discussion with the person we have interviewed for our basis in picking up the required fine points for our system.

Analysis Plan

Planning for the analysis is critical since it will be a great factor for the success of the development of the stand-alone system and as an integrated system as well. With proper analysis plan, efficient system will be produced based from the data that will be collected through the various approaches in information gathering. Analysis plan has something to do with the analysis strategy. In short, they are much related. Conducting interviews for the university and college publication staffs will be the best tools in obtaining information. This activity is much vital for the conception of the system. Their knowledge is much needed for us to know and give us an idea to what the possible outcome of our system will be.

We have chosen to adopt the Interview scheme in information gathering. Through these interviews, we can simply have the information that we want from our respondents. The key people to be interviewed are the Editors-In-Chief of the existing publications of the University of Southeastern Philippines, including the departmental ones, since they have the potential to answer all of the queries that we have formulated for the system’s study. The organizations that would be interviewed are the “The Collegiate Headlight”, the official student publication of the University of Southeastern Philippines; “CT Signs ‘09”, the college publication of the College of Technology, and “The Eagle”, College of Education’s publication.

Which of them?

2009-01-26T08:55:00.000-08:00

Analyzing a particular system will surely require detailed information about it so that it will be improved and developed further. Apparently, a person, team, or department who has the knowledge about the system will be approached for the purpose of inquiring or to gather data and for the system to be understood. Therefore, communication is essential for achieving these data—both for the client or user and the developer of the system.
In systems analysis, there are some identified techniques used in gathering data: Interviewing, Document review, Observation and the Use of Questionnaires. If I will be asked to categorize these techniques from what I am most comfy to make use of to the least one, it would be: Interviewing, Use of Questionnaires, Document Review, and lastly, Observation
I have ranked first the Interviewing scheme for the reason that it is what I believe the very efficient method if we want to make more clarification or we need to get a deeper explanation, or understanding about the system we are studying with. It may not seem that I am a chatty person as others might think of but actually I am just putting and using it at the proper time, place and person. As what I have experienced from my previous enrolled subjects which require visiting some establishments or companies, and involves a sort of interviewing with the responsible people, I realized that it was fun. I cannot say that I am a good conversationalist, but I can say that I have the confidence to talk with them in the best I can. Through Interviewing, we can possibly get even the most detailed information as we want to because we can make follow-up questions after the other and when we are being confused, we can ask until such time our queries are being responded. Use of Questionnaires is not that reliable for me. Unlike interviewing, having questionnaires is just limited.
Document Review will be strenuous, I think. You have to review, examine, and evaluate the lengthy document about a certain system. Although, the necessary information about the system is being written and presented on the document, there is no full assurance that you will completely comprehend the entire system right after reading it. It is likely to have questions after reviewing the document.
It would be difficult for me and for sure I will have a hard time if I am to use the Observation technique. Observing is very limited—it just depends on our five senses. If we have questions in us, it would be that we will or will never answer our own questions. There is also a big chance that if there is what we thought was the answer to our personal question, will be very far from the reality.
These techniques are all significant in gathering data specially in studying a system knowing that it is not that easy to fully understand them. Each of these techniques is applicable depending on a given situation. As far as I believe, they are all substantial in getting to know deeper in dealing with systems analysis.

Moverzz Proposed System -- E-Publication System

2009-01-24T08:38:00.000-08:00

Situational Analysis:
The Collegiate Headlight, the official publication of the University of Southeastern Philippines, showcases the literary talents of the USePians. The staff of the organization (Collegiate Headlight) creates entries that show the current issues inside the university and the appeals of the mass.
The university is composed of several colleges namely: the College of Technology, College of Engineering, Institute of Computing, College of Arts and Sciences, College of Education, School of Applied Economics, and the College of Governance and Business Economics. The Collegiate Headlight allows the students from these different departments to submit their own literary entries by dropping them at the entry boxes placed at the Collegiate Headlight office. With this scenario, our group has observed that this becomes inconvenient for the part of the students, who wish to submit their works because they have to intentionally go to the office and drop their entries. Moreover, it also adds to the task of the Collegiate Headlight staff because they have to check from time to time if there are some literary works being submitted so they can start organizing and preparing their draft for the publication release. On the other hand, it is also a burden for the student’s side to pay every semester to avail for the said publication.

E-Publication System
Our group proposes to have a system that will make use of the technology and incorporate it in the university’s publication. An online publication (Collegiate Headlight) system is viewable by the users where they can read the entries within it. It will also have features that will allow the contributors to submit their literary works online instead of the traditional submission which is by dropping them off at the entry boxes.
The system goes like this: On the main page, there will be links for the contributor’s area, archive, comments and suggestions, and a link for the current release of the Collegiate Headlight. This system will be called the E-Publication System which will simplify the uploading and downloading of the literary entries through the aid of the Internet.
On the contributor’s area, students from the different departments of the university are free to submit and edit their works. The archive link is for the students who wish to read the previous releases of the Collegiate Headlight. The comments and suggestions link’s purpose is for the betterment of the online publication. A link for the current release of the Collegiate Headlight is provided for the students to read. Furthermore, the files are downloadable.

Benefits:
1.The E-Publication System will lessen the semestral enrollment fees of the students and as well as for the part of the organization (The Collegiate Headlight), in terms of their printing charges for the massive production of the school publication to be issued to the USePians.
2.There is an update for every USePian so as to announce when will be the submission and deadline for their literary works and also for the announcement of its release.
3.This system will minimize the works of the publication staff and as well as for the students who wish to be part of the literary folio by submitting their own made entries.

What are the two most frequently experienced causes of frustration in IS Professionals and users while working on an IS plan?

2009-01-24T08:30:00.000-08:00

Problems will naturally arise in an organization due to some factors. Apparently, frustrations will come and blow out the minds of the people working in the organization specially between the IS professionals and the users. Like any other activity, planning is so much vital to achieve the desirable results being forecasted. Normally, any business or organization has their own corresponding strategies on how to make their own company expand and at the same time attain their goals being set. Any business involves various risks—it is natural and inevitable. That is why planning is essential to make an organization survive and still compete in the industry knowing that they are involved in the survival of the fittest manner.

As defined, Strategic Information System Planning is the analysis of a corporation’s information and processes using business information models together with the evaluation of risk, current needs and requirements. The result is an action plan showing the desired course of events necessary to align information use and needs with the strategic direction of the company (Battaglia, 1991).

Lederer and Sethi (1988) surveyed 80 organizations to examine the problems faced by information systems managers when they attempt to implement one of three alignment methodologies, BSP, SSP or IE. Barlow (1990) has also examined the SISP methodologies and
has provided some insights into their structure and implementation problems. Bergeron et al. (1991)
examined the issue of application of two ‘impact’ methodologies, Porter’s Value Chain Analysis and
Wiseman’s Strategic Thrust Methodology. These studies and the insights developed by us form the basis of this section which provides a critique of the existing methodologies. The detailed list of problems in implementing SISP methodologies has been classified by Lederer and Sethi as resource, planning process, or output related problem associated with the three methodologies.

According to this survey, the most severe problem identified by IS managers is the failure to secure top management commitment for carrying out the final plan.
Normally, IS managers will somehow feel and experience the burden brought by the various problems, ongoing changes and the inconsistencies of the IS plan of a particular organization. This would really make them feel frustrated. Due to these factors, the plan would not be hundred percent sure that what is thought to be the final plan will be pursued. As the day goes by, changes will come, developments and greater and brighter ideas will arise. This means that the top management which is accountable and responsible for carrying out the goals and plans of the organization will expect to have not-so-good feedbacks from their subordinates. For sure, this would affect the people behind the IS planning and as well as the users. Integrity is diminished because of the inconsistencies and changes.

The second most severe problem identified is the requirement for substantial further analysis after the completion of the IS plan.
Analysis is a critical part of having the planning. After the Information System plan is established, supplementary and advanced study is needed to facilitate and manage the plan; study that would integrate the best propositions being set for the expansion and growth of the organization. Since many ideas are coming from the planning team, the salient things and the detailed fine points necessary to be dealt with will bring confusion to the IS managers—another frustration that needs to be answered.

Both these problems are related to the output of the planning process. Besides these top two, six of the next top eight problems are related to the resources required to carry out the strategic information systems planning (success of the plan depends on the team leader, difficulty in finding the team leader meeting the criteria specified in the study, methodology lacking computer support, planning exercise taking long time, etc.). Among the top ten problems encountered while
implementing one of these methodologies (or, even while implementing an in-house methodology), three are common: difficulty in obtaining top management commitment for implementing the outputs, the requirement of substantial further analysis and difficulty in finding a good team leader.
The results of this survey suggest that IS planners are not particularly satisfied with their methodologies. If the objective of the SISP exercise is to align IS objectives with business goals, then detailed, lengthy and complex SISP may be of limited value. Where the objective is to use IT to impact a business strategy, these methodologies may not generate useful ideas for that purpose.
Bergeron et al. (1990), however, point out that the value chain analysis and Wiseman’s strategic
methodologies do help in achieving that purpose. Barlow (1990) suggests that the large number of
methodologies that have been developed can often ‘add confusion rather than clarity to the (IS)
planning process.’
Salient points which emerge from this and the preceding sections are:
• Although strategic information systems planning is a major concern, most organizations find
it difficult to undertake it. Besides their lack of experience with SISP, absence of a comprehensive, structured, easy to use methodology may also be a main reason for it. It is possible that the advances in Information Technology and their applicability in organizations has outpaced all formal methodologies evolved in the 70s and 80s or evolved in 90s as marginally modified versions of the earlier methodologies, which were largely dominated by IBM’s Business
Systems Planning.
• Further, as pointed out by Barlow (1990) also, the overall success of an integrated business/technology architecture depends upon the organizational structure, the level of IT experience within the company and the availability of information resources. Since these factors differ between firms, there may not be a single best way to view IT planning.

A comprehensive methodology for SISP will need to incorporate both the ‘impact’ and the ‘align’
views. Since it is vital to face the frustrations between the IS professionals and the users, with proper cooperation, and attitude for both parties, success will surely come.

Critical Success Factors

2009-01-03T07:51:00.001-08:00

Achieving success would definitely require a massive effort to attain it. The road towards it is not that smooth as others might think of. For some students like me, it would necessitate an assortment of pressures, sacrifices, challenges, failures, discouragements and many other negative things that are inevitable in one’s life. However, if there are goals and plans being set before them, triumph will then have its way. Like any organization or business, success means a big thing. Success would entail and depend on the strategic plans being made and how it is being implemented and managed. Having realistic expectations and timeframe are critical success factors for any project. Prior to the start of any project, the team must discuss all project plans and objectives of the project.

Critical success factors cannot be specifically defined for the masses because success can be defined quite differently by each individual, and for the goal at hand. Therefore, in order to identify critical success factors, it is first necessary to come to terms with your own personal definition of success. Each individual’s own definition of will be influenced by several key factors. Success is subject to individual interpretation based on upbringing, past experiences, role models, personal motivations and goals. Carefully contemplate your definition of success based on your values—not with what other people tell you what it is. Your own definition of personal success directly influences critical factors leading to that success. Your view of success will change at various times throughout your life. Your definition of success will continue to change, so don’t make the error of pursuing an outdated version of it. Success factors will change over time. Personal success is sometimes measurable and sometimes not. Very few people achieve success accidentally. Most people who achieve success first defined it then planned for it; they set a goal to achieve it. Critical success factors change with the goal. Once you have defined personal success for yourself, your next step is to set goals that will lead you to your definition of success. You must create realistic, viable plans to achieve those goals. Follow your plans, be flexible, and enjoy the process. Here are five success factors that will directly affect your success in achieving any goal:

Critical Success Factor # 1: Clearly Identify your Goal

Clearly determine what the goal is. Be specific.
This means that the goals should be precise and detailed so as to avoid any situations that would slow down or hinder the organization to attain success

Critical Success Factor # 2: Identify the Obstacles

List all the obstacles standing between you and the goal. Identify resources, assistance, information or anything else that might be needed to reach the goal. As you're writing, don’t get discouraged by the obstacles– they’re absolutely necessary to help you with the next step in completing your plan.

Critical Success Factor # 3: Know the Tasks Necessary to Overcome Each Obstacle

Taking each obstacle one at a time, write one or more ways the obstacle could be overcome. These are tasks that will comprise your to-do list. Expect to have several tasks per obstacle.

Critical Success Factor # 4: Assign Deadlines

Assign a start and completion date to each task in the plan. It’s ok to be working on several different tasks at the same time, but don’t over do it. Be realistic.

Critical Success Factor #5: Follow the Plan

If your success plan is too long or complicated, try breaking it into several smaller, more manageable plans. Don’t rely on luck or things outside your control as part of your success plan. Be flexible–expect your success plan to change before you complete it. Circumstances change, unexpected events occur, and your plan should be updated to adapt to changes.

Critical success factors, are key areas which you identify from conducting a SWOT, PEST and Porters Five Forces model, market research and competitor analysis. The basic logic is to look at the all the main results:
WEAKNESSES - What are your biggest business weaknesses that need addressing?
OPPORTUNITIES - What areas in the market need exploiting for your business to attain growth?
POLITICAL - Which political factors are important to your business, and need observing?, What is the current legislation?, Has your business achieved/aiming to achieve all the requirements?
ECONOMIC - What is the current economic climate like?, How will this affect business turnover?, What measures are you taking to ensure it does not adversely affect your business?
SOCIAL - What are the current consumer trends?, How can your business exploit them?, What are current consumer pressure groups re-acting to?
TECHNICAL - How is your business exploiting technology to achieve growth?, Is it through improving efficiency? or is it through using technology to aid new product development?
COMPETITOR ANALYSIS - What are your competitors doing?
MARKET RESEARCH - What do the consumers feel about existing/new products and services?
Critical Success Factors are strongly related to the mission and strategic goals of your business or project. Whereas the mission and goals focus on the aims and what is to be achieved. CSF focus on the most important areas and get to the very heart of both what is to be achieved and how you will achieve it.

Critical Success Factors are the areas of your business or project that are absolutely essential to its success. By identifying and communicating these CSFs, you can help ensure your business or project is well-focused and avoids wasting effort and resources on less important areas. By making CSFs explicit, and communicating them with everyone involved, you can help keep the business and project on track towards common goals and aims.

Rockart defined CSF as: The limited number of areas in which results, if they are satisfactory, will ensure successful competitive performance for the organization. They are the few key areas where things must go right for the business to flourish. If results in these areas are not adequate, the organization’s efforts for the period will be less than desired.
He also concluded that CSF are “areas of activity that should receive constant and careful attention from management.”

In reality, identifying your CSFs is a very iterative process. Your mission, strategic goals and CSFs are intrinsically linked and each will be refined as you develop them.
Here are steps that will help you identify the CSFs for your business or project.

Step 1: Establish your business’s or project’s mission and strategic goals.

Step 2: For each strategic goal, ask yourself “what area of business or project activity is essential to achieve this goal? The answers to the question are your candidate CSFs:
To make sure you consider all types of possible CSFs, you can use Rockart’s CSF types as a checklist:
INDUSTRY— these factors result from specific industry characteristics. These are the things that the organization must do to remain competitive.
ENVIRONMENTAL— these factors result from macro-environmental influences on an organization. Things like the business climate, the economy, competitors, and technological advancements are included in this category.
STRATEGIC—these factors result from the specific competitive strategy chosen by the organization. The way in which the company chooses to position themselves, market themselves, whether they are high volume low cost or low volume high cost producers, etc.
TEMPORAL – these factors result from the organization’s internal forces. Specific barriers, challenges, directions, and influences will determine these CSFs.

Step 3: Evaluate the list of candidate CSFs to find the absolute essential elements for achieving success – these are your Critical Success Factors.

As you identify and evaluate candidate CSFs, you may uncover some new strategic objectives or more detailed objectives. So you may need to define your mission, objectives and CSFs iteratively.

Step 4: Identify how you will monitor and measure each of the CSFs.

Step 5: Communicate your CSF along with the other important elements of your business or project’s strategy.

Step 6: Keep monitoring and reevaluating your CSF to ensure you keep moving towards your aims. Indeed, whilst CSF are sometimes less tangible than measurable goals, it is useful to identify as specifically as possible how you can measure or monitor each one.

**mindtools.com
**squidoo.com
**eCommerce-Now.com

is it really worth it?

2008-12-27T08:37:00.000-08:00

Thinking about your approved/ proposed system, is it worth the three or more years of learning you get from the university? Discuss how you arrive with the proposal.

Being a student in the tertiary level doesn’t mean that all you have to do is just sit prettily and listen to the professor or the instructor talking and making lectures. It is far different from our kindergarten, elementary and high school years where we could observe that learning is given by means of spoon feeding. As we emerge in taking education, the responsibility as a learner also steps up higher.
The moment I decided to enroll in this university, I never had the idea of what will be the life I will be heading. What is in my mind is that I will just be a student who would go to school daily, go through the rooms—interact, participate and socialize with my colleagues. And what’s certain is that I have just premeditated that after four years, I will be graduating soon, and that is this year 2009. But unfortunately, the four years will be extended due to some unexpected issues. Presently, I am on my fourth year in USeP but most of my subjects are for the third year level. It’s quite funny to think; still this is the bitter reality—and it’s no way out other than facing it. My four-year stay in the university is full of adventure. Be it the positive side or the other.
As an Information Technology student, it is a necessity for us that we are equipped with the better- quality of facilities and the education itself for us to be geared up in the succeeding years. We are accustomed to some sorts of developing simple to complex programs, systems and other computing technicalities that which is essential in our field. In relation to our subject in Systems Analysis and Design I, in which I am currently enrolled, all of the stuffs I have been through are substantial in the said course. For this semester, we are tasked to find any organization and study their system if there exists and if not, we are to come up with a proposal that would answer the need. This seems to be a challenge for us. If I will be asked about the sense of worth and the knowledge I gained within three or more years from the university and correlate it with our proposal, I would say that it is just in the average rate.
For the past three years, during the lecture times, the discussion is easy to comprehend. But then, when the application point comes, I start scratching my nose. Honestly, when it comes to developing programs, I find it hard to do so. However, I can understand the written code for the program. I believe that some things are learnable, it just takes time, passion and effort--- these things, I admit that I have missed; it’s a no good for me. But, life must goes on as they say. To bring to mind the past events just like the time pressure and discouragements given by our instructors; add to them up the poor facilities and lack of computers to accommodate the students, would somehow diminish the students’ interest in pursuing their studies. This is the sad part of taking the opportunity studying in state universities. Nevertheless, this would in some way be a challenge for the student’s part to exert and invest more effort in tracking the trails of education. It’s a mind perspective also. It’s how you see and weigh things and deal with them. Going back to the SAD I, it’s an advantage that we are grouped. This calls for teamwork. This means that the triumph of one is the triumph of all, and the fall of one is the fall of all. United we stand, divided we fall. We help hand in hand to survive the endeavors in our studies. We’ll make use of what knowledge or learning we have achieved. We’ll support one another and back up each member. Collaboration is very important knowing that not all of us are good in computing procedures. Whatever is the lack of one, we will patch it up. It’s either we go up or sink together.
With regards to our proposal, we find a long time looking for organizations that are open and willing to extend their time and cooperate with us. Until such time our professor introduced to us some existing Information Systems in the university that needs to be further studied so as to be developed and enhanced for the benefit of the majority. And our group was assigned to study the SRMIS or the Students Registration Management Information System. It undeniably gave doubt for the group if we will pursue the said system. It is unquestionably a huge system knowing that it involves many organizations or department in the school such as the OSS or the Office of School Services, the different colleges and the School Registrar. We do have reservations in each of us. But then we have accorded to pursue it and gave it a try. We prepared letters and asked approval for the departments. As soon as we have a discussion with the head of School Registrar in the university, she denied us to study the existing SRMIS. Her main reason is that the data are very confidential and we as students are not allowed to perform any study or manipulations of the system. If we are very eager and aggressive to do so, we have to ask permission from the university president first then to another official—it would take us time. Candidly, we were quite disheartened of what we have heard. As the conversation went on, she has suggested an idea that would help us somehow. The proposal goes like this: Based on each group member’s observation and experiences during the 1st step of the enrollment (in which, the students have to be evaluated by their respective year level advisers), the advisers have to go through a lot of evaluation forms to find the name of the student and after that evaluating the student or sometimes, the advisers would ask the student to locate his form. Some advisers made a simple solution; it is by using Microsoft Excel. But it would still be tiresome to go through a lot of files just to find the name of the student. In addition, one of the main concerns of Ms. Soller, the reason why she suggested this system is for them to lessen their burden in evaluating the graduating students, she said, they have to locate the student records, one by one, they have to evaluate the students manually.

The world belongs for those who know how to dream...

2008-12-11T02:29:00.000-08:00

Thinking about the future is common to everyone. In fact, it’s not a rare thing to do. As they say, “To dream is free… sky is the limit…”

In a youth conference, a speaker once said, “The world belongs for those who dream…” This statement has made me realize that dreaming in a deeper sense is definitely essential if an individual wants to survive in this world. It triggers the ability of a person to pursue whatever he has dreamed of. But nevertheless, sometimes dreaming makes one being hindered to achieve their goals in life. Dreams will stay dreams if there is no action being put to it. Dreams connote of the desirable future we want to attain. It’s a vision dwelling in us…
I may say that one cannot focus if there is no vision. Without vision, one can get caught with life’s complexity; being distracted with the negative issues in the environment and as well as the issues of the person itself. As being quoted by Dave Branon, he said that, “Life will never look fair. But when we trust God, we always know that He is faithful.” This quote reminded me of a Scripture that assures that God has a plan in my life. It is in Jeremiah 29:11, which says that, “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Looking ten years ahead, what will I be? Can I be successful as God has assured?
There are factors that should be considered in order to achieve the SUCCESS in life. Primarily, a person should know how to motivate himself. As the captains of our own lives, we have the responsibility to have our own forecasting for the years to come. Setting goals, planning ahead, formulating strategies--- these all play a big role for a triumphant future. They are the major ingredients so that one will be flying high with colors.
Any activity requires planning in order to achieve a desired goal. It would be crucial for any endeavor in life without any established plan. These plans could either make or break an individual. That is why plans should be thoroughly analyzed. This thorough analysis will lead to strategies that will eventually play a big role for the success of any person.
This strategic plan will enable any individual to succeed and survive, depending on the plan that has been made. As said earlier, plans could either make or break them.

I, an Information Technology student as of now will be soon entering the real business world and be called as an IT professional. But the big question is how will I get there? What are my strategies so that I could land successfully to the field that I have chosen?
Success needs determination; determination to follow the dreams and vision inhabiting in the mind and heart, determination to pursue whatever goal that has been set. Determination also speaks of discipline. We need to discipline our thought, life, emotion, and event the way we think. Disciplining our thought means that we need to see things as complimenting with one another; that even things never turned out as we expect them to be, we will put in mind that everything happens for a special purpose, and we need to see things in a very nice view --- in a positive outlook. Disciplining our life means we need to take control of our time. Valuing our time is one way of exercising professionalism. Time discipline is important especially for worthwhile things. To cite, rather than going to malls and spending time on shopping, its more preferable to lay our time in reading knowledgeable books, journals, magazines, surfing the World Wide Web --- all sorts of exploring and unraveling the vastness of Information Technology knowing that it does advance as day passes by. We spend our time according to our maximum priority. And that priority is our future--- our Success. When we deal with our emotions, discipline can be applied in a way that we have to manage the stresses that we get around us; from the people we meet daily, family issues, national or local concerns and everything that affects our emotions. It should be that we know how to handle our stresses and the situations that we encounter. It is inevitable to face such things but when we know how to balance our emotions, it will not be difficult for us to deal with them. And lastly, the way of how we discipline our thinking --- this entails focus to our vision. We should focus on the positive side of life; we should pursue optimistic thinking. We should focus on the dreams we have envisioned. Success needs people who know how to dream. It needs people who are being unchained with their paralyzed minds. Paralyzed with the current status they have, the failures they have gone, the discouragements they have been through and they get from the people and surroundings and from what they perceive --- all the contaminants that is being trashed in their minds. It weakens their hope, lessens their confidence to follow their dreams and hinders them to achieve what they desire in their lives. They are being immobilized with all these negativities.
Success requires Change. Change of mindset. I may say that, “If I change, everything changes!” There is no wonder that I will be victorious in the end. Mindset matters in all aspects of life. It’s the mindset that neutralizes the disparity one possesses. It is mind over matter, if you don’t mind, it won’t matter. So it is necessary that we weigh and evaluate things first before we let them matter o us. If we allow them to hurt or affect us in a not-so-good way, it’s our fault then, we allowed them so. If we stay where were at, we won’t change. If a person wants to pursue their plans in life, it’s a must that he or she undergoes change --- change for the better. He or she should bring and let him or herself enter a new level in life. Change is a requirement for Success. If one desires to become prosperous, a shifting of mindset is needed. Mindset really counts.
Douglas Thornton said, “I find that the constant inspiration gained by looking at the goal is the chief thing that helps me to persevere.” Honestly, I was deeply moved with his statement. Planning ahead and setting goals, the vision and dreams, helps motivate to proceed and run after the reward that lies ahead. Focusing on the goal produces perseverance. Despite of the undertakings and peculiarity of the events around, the goal pushes us to go through. If on chooses to stay focused, he or she would not allow anything, be it the events, people, or the emotions, to get him be distracted. He would formulate strategies instead to overrun them. A person who wants to become successful in the end would live a STRATEGIC lifestyle --- a balanced life. A Strategic lifestyle would mean:
1. BELIEVING THAT YOU ARE A PERSON OF WORTH. Believing equates trusting --- trusting in our own abilities to become triumphant in the future, and confidence to attain whatever goal that has been already set. This would imply of NO “SELF-DEGRADATION” rule in spite of the weaknesses and flaws one have.
2. STARTING THE DAY WITH A POSITIVE ATTITUDE. Being optimistic helps an individual to stay right on the track. A positive attitude each day drives all worries away! The attitude maintains the focus and also, the focus upholds the attitude.
3. DEFINING OUR DREAMS. Like any other projects that we have or had taken, we need to know them for us to accomplish them excellently. We need to define our dreams to have a concrete plan on how to achieve them in the most efficient way. If we fail to define them, then it’s our loss.
4. NOT DWELLING IN OUR CIRCUMSTANCES. Most of the people get trapped particularly when it does let them be in the state of anxiousness. These would refer to the problems, challenges, and obstacles they have never anticipated to come their way. These are all spices of life and all spices make life more tasteful. Even though when there is fear blocking along the way, let us keep on advancing! There is no such thing as hopeless. Nothing is hopeless until you give up hope. When we focus on the goal, we will see hope unless we choose to stay, be overwhelmed and consumed with life’s intricacy.
5. START THINKING RIGHT. It’s how we perceive and receive things. It would be much easier to get into our goal if we practice thinking appropriately. Thinking too much of the garbages or the pointless thoughts in our mind would weigh us down. Thinking right demands the right perspectives in life. It speaks of our mindset, again. The way we think determines who we are and what we will become. The way we think influences how we act to make things happen. As a Proverb says, “As a man thinks, so he is.” But we should not also forget that it is the plan of Him that will prevail. No matter how much effort, how much we struggle and how big our plan are, His’ will reign.
6. KEEP YOUR EYES ON YOUR DREAM. We should not let our eyes get blurred or else there would be a division in our focus. We have many priorities in life but it should also be that “First things first.”

Life is unpredictable. It is full of surprises. You don’t know what it may bring. But as the captains of our own boat, we are liable on how are we going to make things run in a smooth flow. We are the forecasters of our own future. We make things happen in our lives. What we believe is what we become; and what we believe for should be accompanied with our actions in order for them to be fulfilled.
As of now, I am still a student who is continually learning the fundamentals of the Information and Communications Technology industry; exploring its vastness and hoping too that I will be entering, engaging, and working with the real ICT world. As a student as of now, I allow myself to discover more of the field that I have chosen. To experience challenges in my student years is essential for the development of my knowledge and skills that soon will be vital in my future career.
But as what I have mentioned earlier, “What we believe is what we become”… What I believe then, I will become. This suggests that we should possess the proper mindset for us to arrive at our individual goals--- that we should believe in our own abilities and potentials and really allow ourselves to be exposed with the unending learning around us; to never stop learning. With this motivation, I could envision myself as a professional IT person in a well-known company acquiring the competitive skills and adequate knowledge about my profession. I could visualize that I am working in a software development team. I could also envision myself as occupying a top rank and being well-compensated by the company. Ten years from now, I could see myself as a successful IT professional mentoring other people; helping them to carry out their objectives.
With all of these futuristic ideas and plans I have, it will just be fulfilled if it is the perfect will of Him. As what the Scripture says: “Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is His’ that will prevail”… Nevertheless, He has also promised that He has the perfect plans in our lives; not to harm but to prosper us. This means there is hope for everything. As long as we do our part, believe in ourselves, and most importantly, trusting Him in all our ways, we will succeed.

Strategic Information System Planning.Ü

2008-11-25T07:37:00.000-08:00

Our class in Management Information System II have discussed and shared about the Evolution of Information System Planning and the Problems of Information System Plan last Monday. It was a good sharing and we learned from the practical examples given by the sharers.
Any activity requires planning in order to achieve a desired goal. It would be crucial for any endeavor in life without any established plan. These plans could either make or break an individual or any organization. That is why plans should be thoroughly analyzed. This thorough analysis will lead to strategies that will eventually play a big role for the success of a company or any person.
To review, Information System involves Hardware, Software, and People ware. These three are interrelated in a way that one could not work properly if one component is malfunctioning; the entire Information System is affected. That is why a strategic plan for it should be made. This strategic plan will enable an organization or any business individual to succeed and survive, depending on the plan that has been made. As said earlier, plans could either make or break them.
As years go by, Information Systems Planning also has developed. The realization that there is a constant change in the environment brought an impact to the many organizations for them to improve business performance and maximize their returns on IT investment. Basically, planning for Information System begins with the identification of needs. A problem will be given a solution when the problem itself is first identified. In the sharing, it was said that the plan should be specific and flexible. Specific enough to enable understanding of each application and to know where it stands in the order of development and flexible so as to adjust the priorities in the planning, if necessary.
Nevertheless, problems can never be eluded. That is why it should be that the SISP should anticipate for the things to happen—it really requires deep understanding of the specific needs inside an organization. Also, organizational plans and IS plans should go together so that it would advance and bring improvement to the organization, hence, gives way to its survival in the industry. Moreover, the application of Information Technology to a firm’s strategic activities is one of the effective factors to enhance business operations. Through planning strategically, an organization can participate in the competition in the business enterprise

five years from now?

2008-11-17T07:08:00.000-08:00

Life is unpredictable. It is full of surprises. You don’t know what it may bring. But as the captains of our own boat, we are liable on how are we going to make things run in a smooth flow. We are the forecasters of our own future. We make things happen in our lives. What we believe is what we become; and what we believe for should be accompanied with our actions in order for them to be fulfilled.
As of now, I am still a student who is continually learning the fundamentals of the Information and Communications Technology industry; exploring its vastness and hoping too that I will be entering, engaging, and working with the real ICT world. As a student as of now, I allow myself to discover more of the field that I have chosen. To experience challenges in my student years is essential for the development of my knowledge and skills that soon will be vital in my future career.
To foresee myself five years from now is not that fixed. What I mean is that I am not sure yet if I will become what I am planning to be. But as what I have mentioned earlier, “What we believe is what we become”… What I believe then, I will become. This suggests that we should possess the proper mindset for us to arrive at our individual goals--- that we should believe in our own abilities and potentials and really allow ourselves to be exposed with the unending learning around us; to never stop learning. With this motivation, I could envision myself as a professional IT person in a well-known company acquiring the competitive skills and adequate knowledge about my profession. I could visualize that I am working in a software development team. I could also envision myself as occupying a top rank and being well-compensated by the company. Five years from now, I could see myself as a successful IT professional mentoring other people; helping them to carry out their objectives.
With all of these futuristic ideas and plans I have, it will just be fulfilled if it is the perfect will of Him. As what the Scripture says: “Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is His’ that will prevail”…Nevertheless, He has also promised that He has the perfect plans in our lives; not to harm but to prosper us. This means there is hope for everything. As long as we do our part, believe in ourselves, and most importantly, trusting Him in all our ways, we will succeed.

My own FOSS perspective

2008-10-08T18:55:00.000-07:00

I did appreciate of how FOSS or Free and Open Source Software have

given me the idea of expressing a sense of "liberty" in the virtual realms. With FOSS, people can

benefit from first, its Open Standards, which means it is publicly available and has no limits in terms with its

rights; it is not that strict and can be easily accessed by anyone because of its availability. Next is that

because FOSS is Open Source which means that it has a complete free source reference implementation

available. With Open Standards, people can have a lot of benefits. Organizations could gain advantages

and will be ensured that its technological and Information Technology procurements and implementations

follow it. Another is that there is a less chance of being locked in a specific vendor. It creates a major benefit

that would result to the interoperability of different technologies and for the different systems to communicate

with one another. One question is that what are Standards and why use them? According to my readings,

Standards means an established or accepted level of achievement. In my own perspective, these are

essential to attain a particular goal. In general, they are important because it simplifies our living. Another

thing that adds spice to FOSS is that it is Open for Innovation, open for everyone, not even one exempted.

Moreover, there are standard-setting process, the de jure, de facto and industry which plays an essential

role for a standard to be set and implemented. FOSS creates a new atmosphere in the IT industry.

As the name itself implies, Free and Open Source Software, is free and open for everyone. These refers

to the softwares that are highly needed in the Information and Communications Technology industry.

These softwares may be a certain system that helps a company or establishment do its job in its

simplest and most convenient matter. But the issue in here is that these softwares are classified into two,

which are the proprietary and non-proprietary. By nature, proprietary ones ar much expensive rather than the

non-proprietary. In my own understanding about what FOSS is, it has a lot of advantages than the proprietary

products. To cite, primarily it is free or if not, cheaper compared to proprietary softwares. And another is that

it is expansible, which means it can be modified and further developed which is really helpful for a software

to be enhanced. With FOSS, the participation of people specially in the Information Technology field such as

the programmers and web developers is increased. For me, FOSS is a big help even to the unemployed

potential programmers and the like. They can even get a living out of it without any application from any

company. All they have to do is to enhance a software and market it in in the virtual world. Another thing

that interests me about FOSS is that it caters vast opportunities for the people who have a desire in pursuing

their career without looking or belittling their educational background as long as the "developer" contributes

worthy software for the majority.

In most cases, specially in the Philippines; people, company and other establishments are being

locked-in with the proprietary softwares. I may say that they embrace it till now for the basic reason that it was

first introduced rather than the FOSS. On the other hand, if FOSS was also first introduced, no wonder FOSS

is widely accepted and used in our country. Who came first really matters. Another is that the business world

runs with the use of proprietary softwares. It can be that they are just going with the flow. I myself admit that

am more familiar with the proprietary products and its applications specially the office applications, and much

more comfortable with using it. But now that I know what the power of FOSS brings for the majority, I am now

beginning to open myself towards it. FOSS might be odd and eccentric at first for others but it just takes time

to appreciate its essence and beauty. It entails open-mindedness for it to be fully understood.

It's good to know and hear that there is a Republic Act implemented in the Philippines regarding FOSS.

Meaning, FOSS is slowly digging it up, it is slowly exposed to the many. While others are not yet familiar with it,

I believe there will come a time that they will just be caught with the "FOSS fever". I am so amazed with how other people like the developers and consumers fully embraced, patronized, understood and studied FOSS. They pour out their dedication into it and really stood up with their feet and of course with the partnership of FOSS itself.

I believe that if FOSS will be thoroughly and fully be exposed to Filipinos, we would be saving a large

percentage for our annual budget alloted for the Information and Communications Technology field. It requires

collaboration from the entire participants of the country--from the government down to the individuals. Also, FOSS is a breakthrough when it comes to producing more softwares, more jobs, more opportunities.

What do you think is the role of research topic in deciding your future career?

2008-07-21T23:04:00.000-07:00

Future has no certainty. As defined from the Webster’s dictionary, it is “referring to time yet to come” or “that is to be”. No one can predict his own future. Not even the most brilliant and intelligent person in out planet. Maybe, they just keep on guessing. In our modern world, things are getting simpler to be done from time to time, new discoveries have been found, which all in all have the impact to bring advantages for the lives of the people around the globe—and this is the power of research.
In my own perception, a research topic can be a result of one’s field of interest. One may choose to go on with a particular topic because he or she might have the passion or knowledge for that certain matter or the “curiosity” led them to pick that particular research topic to expand their understanding about it. Research topic serves as a guide or map to a person in pursuing his or her future career. A person may use his research topic to decide with what he is going to land. One may pursue a research because that is his or her interest or maybe it is his or her specialty, or he or she has the expertise for it. If one follows his /heart, he/she will definitely reach his goals.

Benefits of Open Standards

2008-07-07T09:26:00.000-07:00

Having been introduced to Open Standards, I think the top benefits of using Open Standards is that, for the part of the developers, they have all the rights to improve and enhance a particular software since it is "open standards", meaning, they can do whatever they want to as long as they will meet the requirements for the open standards। Eventually, the end-users will then have the all-access privilege with the finish products of the developers for a minimal cost and much better, downloadable and for free.

What is FOSS?

2008-07-02T20:00:00.000-07:00

In my own perception, FOSS, or Free and Open Source Software, as the meaning of the acronym describes is "free and can be easily accessed by the end-users compared with proprietary software, and is also subjected for modification such as upgrades, or developments to enhance its features".
As it has been written by Eric Raymond in a seminal paper on the FOSS model entitled The Cathedral and the Bazaar,"Open-source software [is] the process of systematically harnessing open development and decentralized peer review to lower costs and improve software quality."
This statement, clearly states that FOSS is formulated to minimize the costs on purchasing softwares by continually developing it to improve its quality. In my own view, FOSS is good to patonize since it requires lesser amount to procure it. It's just that there must be excellent, if not, aggressive software developers to pursue it for the quality to get better and better.
try to check this link for further understanding:
http://nosi.net/choosing-and-using-free-and-open-source-software-primer-nonprofits/chapter-2-what-foss

Assignment 2

2008-06-28T10:21:00.000-07:00

Find any information/ article and examine the state of computer science
research and what are it's variety of technical topics?

Subject: The State of Computer Science Research in the U.S and the Evolution of Federal Support for Information Technology

This article highlights the statement of Wm. A. Wulf, president of the National
Academy of Engineering and AT&T Professor of Engineering and Applied Science at the University of Virginia, about the state of Computer Science research in the
United States. There is a contention concerning the issue "Investing" vs. "Expense". He has pointed out that what the federal funding in basic computing research has contributed in the field of national security, prosperity and health is simply an "investment" and not an "expense". There is a distinction between the two; since "expense" sounds like valueless or basically it is just a money spent on an activity while "investment means spending money "productively". These "investments" will reimburse themselve for the future generation. Computer Science research has brought vast contribution within the scope of physical sciences, engineering, commerce, cosmology and weather prediction. He has quoted that, "Basic research may not be the original source for all the benefits we enjoy from technology, but it is a vital and irreplaceable component of the rich system that produces them". This statement made me realize that, not all researches becomes successful or being developed and later caters थेnecessities of the society; but it may become a foundation for the forthcoming
studies. Wulf has greatly emphasized the proper appropriation of budget to sustain the researches and proposals made. Indeed, federal funding, as what I have understood is a union of funding; is essential to pursue this researches. Without this element, these potential researches and proposals would become futile and stagnant, much more, it is just a waste of time and effort. Without current resources, there won't be anything to yield next time. As mentioned, better and stable funding is strongly needed for long term basic researches.

Technical topics covered:
*Evolution and development of Information Technology
*CyberSecurity Research
*Research Funding Stability

REFERENCE: http://www.nationalacademies.org/ocga/testimonies/Computer_Science_Research_in_the_United_States.asp.3e

CS Research Methods Assignment 1

2008-06-24T10:28:00.000-07:00

Report 1:
CRYPTOGRAPHY IN COMPUTER SYSTEM SECURITY
Cryptography plays an important role on ensuring the security and reliability of modern computer systems. Since high speed and broad bandwidth have been becoming the keywords for modern computer systems, new cryptographic methods and tools must follow up in order to adapt to these new and emerging technologies.
In our fast-paced world, computer systems are becoming more and more advanced and has these both effects for the end-users. Confidentiality is that very important for some transactions being made electronically such as accounts in the bank, databases or even programs or e-mails in the web. Also the integrity is highly essential because it sets the data to not be corrupted or modified by the clients unless they have the authorization. Cryptology, or the science of coding and decoding secret messages is intended to protect the data from being disturbed or distorted by unauthorized beings.
As I have learned from my professor, some of the most advanced computer systems have these built-in programs that can now decipher the data stored which is pretty bad since it can cause the unreliability of data which is supposedly must not be the last resort of the clients. This is such a big, bad news to all computer users. It is therefore, important to develop more systems in coding and decoding messages to cope up with issues like these. On the other hand, advanced computer systems also means advanced features of it. But we must also bare in our minds to keep that balanced condition or equilibrium regarding this matter; to have a broad understanding about the positive and negative effects of computer systems, which must be answered or being backed-up by cryptography.
Reference: http://www.jucs_org/jucs_143
Report 2:
INTEGRATED MULTIMEDIA-BASED DISTANCE TEACHING OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
This paper discusses a general approach and architecture for a software system that supports the contextualization of learning resources by means of modular learning objects and applying semantic meta-data. They additionally describe the process of gathering information concerning the learning content by matching learner models against learning resources.
E-learning nowadays or learning through the aid of technology like computers, are very much appreciated and widely used by most of the learning institutions, companies and even business establishments. As I can say, E-learning is far off better than the traditional way of teaching—the use of boards and chalks. Through multimedia-based teaching system, students can easily participate in the class activity, since it uses technology, it can be understood that there is what we call multitasking in a way that students can pass, answer, submit or ask questions directly in the web without the teacher being burdened by all of these stuffs. All he has to do is just to check out on his e-mail and presto! All things are settled. This kind of learning is very beneficial but entails patience since there are other people who are not yet acquainted with technology especially those who were dependent on the traditional methods of learning. Yet, this strategy of teaching is highly interactive, and effective, I believe.
Reference: Andreas Schmidt and Claudia Winterhatter from FZI, Karlsrube (Germany)
Report 3:
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY FOR KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT
This research paper aims to present on as to how knowledge would be sustained in an organization or company with the aid of Information Technology in a knowledge management view. One of the most important assets of organizations as it has been lately recognized is knowledge. Knowledge, as it has been believed by some managers, consultants, IT professionals and customers, is what makes organizations work. It is the invisible force that propels the most successful companies to stock market values gaining that good profits. This knowledge doesn't merely comes from the tangible assets like capital and equity but rather from the specific know-how of the company to produce future cash flows. The knowledge movement in organizational thinking is about refining rules used by investors into techniques and methodologies for the knowledge auditing of organizations. It has also proposed to put knowledge on the balance sheet in the form of intangible assets that account for organization's intellectual capital. According to Sveiby [1997], such intangibles include employees' competence; the internal structure of organizations, given by their patents; their own models, concepts and processes, their administrative system and IT infrastructure; their external structure, given by the relationships they have developed with customers and suppliers, their brand names, trademark, image and reputation.
As it has been distinguished by Nonaka and Takeuchi [1995], there is a distinction between “explicit” and “tacit” knowledge. Explicit knowledge is a formal knowledge that can be packaged as information and can be found in the documents of an organization while Tacit knowledge is a personal knowledge embedded in individual experience and is shared and exchanged through direct, eye-to-eye contact.
Although this research has not put a great emphasis on the importance of Information Technology in the organizations or companies, it would be certainly become useless if there is no proper management of knowledge. I believe that in order to succeed in this time, technology and right knowledge should join hand in hand. Without the help of each other, it would be difficult to develop the status of a certain organization.
Reference: http://www.jucs_org/