http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20090624/media_nm/us_timewarner
The millions of opportunities and conveniences that the internet has given to today's society is quite amazing. The shear convenience of what the web offers draws many to it. Ever miss a TV show that you just cannot seem to get off your mind? Well perhaps in the near future this will become easy to catch up on. Recently, Time Warner Inc. and Comcast Corp. have joined together to further develop TV services on the web. This may seem like a simple service for them to provide to consumers, but we must remember that they must continue to keep there regular profits on their traditional means of TV. If free internet television was available, no one would ever subscribe to satellite or cable, thus putting these companies out of business. The two plan on providing this service to consumers for its convenience. Whether you want to watch something on TV, mobile device, or laptop, soon the option may be available. But this comes with one catch; you must be able to prove that you currently have some type of contract and are paying a subscription for it. A trial version is expected to be tested in July by about 5000 customers. They will be able to view certain shows that are aired on traditional television, just minutes after they end on the internet at their own convenience. This seems like a great idea to incorporate into today's media. I think it will be a large success; at least for the viewer. It seems to me that if these companies approach it the right way, they will still be able to gain revenue with their traditional service. Time Warner CEO Jeff Bewkes recently said, "It's clearly something demanded by consumers. If this approach gets adopted ... it will go past broadcast viewing (online), which is basically three networks on Hulu". These two companies joining together may see a spike in success if this new service is accepted by the consumer. It seems to me that it will be very successful; primarily because of its convenience and the ability of millions to access the internet.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/06/24/comcast-time-warner-team-_n_220010.html
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Journal 14, June 28
http://tech.yahoo.com/news/ap/20090623/ap_on_hi_te/us_myspace_job_cuts
Myspace seemed to have started the social networking craze, but now it may be the first one to be losing track. Recently announced News Corp. has cut 400 domestic Myspace employees and within a week it was also released that 300 international jobs would be cut. With this downsize, Mypace plans to close 4 of its 15 overseas offices in the near future. Myspace Chief Executive Owen Van Natta had this to say, "Our goal to tap into as many international markets as possible drove us to create too many offices around the globe, and with them came inefficiencies". Though this problem of inefficiencies may be very true, I think there is a little more behind this large job cut. I think that recently Myspace has simply lost ground on rivals Facebook and Twitter. I personally began my social networking experience with Myspace many years ago but have recently deleted my account and use Facebook. Myspace was getting to out of control for me. My account was being hacked into and there was just to much junk associated with its use. It just seemed that spam was everywhere. Obviously these same things can happen on Facebook, but it seems to me that it is kept groomed a lot better. I think many people have realized the same thing in the recent past and this is a big reason for so many cuts on the part of Myspace. The combined cuts of domestic and international is said to be about 40% of the companies total workforce. This cut also comes as Myspace tries to match the productivity of Facebook with the respective amount of employees. What do I mean? Facebook is said to have about 850 employees worldwide and Myspace, before the cuts, had a staggering 1,900 worldwide employee base. Myspace executives have learned that just as much productivity can be accomplished with fewer employees; after all Facebook still has about 75 million more users than Myspace, yet so few employees to manage them. If these employee cuts by Myspace cause them to restructure the sight and its outdated features, then they may continue to compete with thriving rival Facebook. But as far as I can tell, if these cuts do not affect the site format and features, Myspace will continue to tumble downhill in the near future. People have found the new social networking site and Myspace needs to compete with it, and maybe that is the idea by starting with such a large job cut.
http://www.marketwatch.com/story/myspace-to-cut-300-international-jobs-in-overhaul
http://www.computerweekly.com/Articles/2009/06/23/236588/myspace-to-cut-another-300-international-jobs.htm
Myspace seemed to have started the social networking craze, but now it may be the first one to be losing track. Recently announced News Corp. has cut 400 domestic Myspace employees and within a week it was also released that 300 international jobs would be cut. With this downsize, Mypace plans to close 4 of its 15 overseas offices in the near future. Myspace Chief Executive Owen Van Natta had this to say, "Our goal to tap into as many international markets as possible drove us to create too many offices around the globe, and with them came inefficiencies". Though this problem of inefficiencies may be very true, I think there is a little more behind this large job cut. I think that recently Myspace has simply lost ground on rivals Facebook and Twitter. I personally began my social networking experience with Myspace many years ago but have recently deleted my account and use Facebook. Myspace was getting to out of control for me. My account was being hacked into and there was just to much junk associated with its use. It just seemed that spam was everywhere. Obviously these same things can happen on Facebook, but it seems to me that it is kept groomed a lot better. I think many people have realized the same thing in the recent past and this is a big reason for so many cuts on the part of Myspace. The combined cuts of domestic and international is said to be about 40% of the companies total workforce. This cut also comes as Myspace tries to match the productivity of Facebook with the respective amount of employees. What do I mean? Facebook is said to have about 850 employees worldwide and Myspace, before the cuts, had a staggering 1,900 worldwide employee base. Myspace executives have learned that just as much productivity can be accomplished with fewer employees; after all Facebook still has about 75 million more users than Myspace, yet so few employees to manage them. If these employee cuts by Myspace cause them to restructure the sight and its outdated features, then they may continue to compete with thriving rival Facebook. But as far as I can tell, if these cuts do not affect the site format and features, Myspace will continue to tumble downhill in the near future. People have found the new social networking site and Myspace needs to compete with it, and maybe that is the idea by starting with such a large job cut.
http://www.marketwatch.com/story/myspace-to-cut-300-international-jobs-in-overhaul
http://www.computerweekly.com/Articles/2009/06/23/236588/myspace-to-cut-another-300-international-jobs.htm
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Journal 13, June 28
http://tech.yahoo.com/news/ap/20090622/ap_on_hi_te/us_tec_netflix_s_nemesis
It is no question that the tough economy has put a damper on much of today's life and businesses. With this over-shadowing most of the nation, one business seems to be shining through; DVD rental. I am not just talking about any DVD rental service, but two in particular: Netflix Inc. mail service and Redbox kiosk rental. These rental types seem to be climbing to the top and competing with each other along the way. Though this does not seem like much of a technological breakthrough compared to others, I think it is quite amazing how it can be done. Mail-order DVD seems simple but in fact it is quite in depth. More amazing is the kiosk rentals. A machine that keeps track of movies while taking the money and dispensing is quite amazing. These easy to use kiosk are giving Netflix a run for their money recently. The simple, yet effective technology of Redbox is partially why DVD's are a mere $1 per day. In reality renting by the day makes perfect sense and people typically only watch the movie once before returning. With over 15,000 kiosk available nationwide this service is also becoming very convenient for the customer. Perhaps one of the best features is that the rented DVD can be returned to any of the Redbox kiosk, keeping track of these changes is quite amazing. Redbox kiosk can hold around 700 disc with about 200 different titles available. More impressive is Netflix's 100,000 titles to choose from. But perhaps this is also a drawback for Netflix. Sorting through and deciding on one out of 200 seems a lot more realistic than through 100,000 titles. I think that Redbox has hit a gold mine. I personally have used the service and have been very pleased with the available titles and convenience. This seems to be another technological breakthrough that millions will come to enjoy. Whether getting groceries or gas, why not spend $1 and have a little entertainment for the evening? I think the kiosk service will continue to be around and the Netflix mail-order may have an uphill battle ahead.
http://www.news-record.com/blog/53458/entry/62561
It is no question that the tough economy has put a damper on much of today's life and businesses. With this over-shadowing most of the nation, one business seems to be shining through; DVD rental. I am not just talking about any DVD rental service, but two in particular: Netflix Inc. mail service and Redbox kiosk rental. These rental types seem to be climbing to the top and competing with each other along the way. Though this does not seem like much of a technological breakthrough compared to others, I think it is quite amazing how it can be done. Mail-order DVD seems simple but in fact it is quite in depth. More amazing is the kiosk rentals. A machine that keeps track of movies while taking the money and dispensing is quite amazing. These easy to use kiosk are giving Netflix a run for their money recently. The simple, yet effective technology of Redbox is partially why DVD's are a mere $1 per day. In reality renting by the day makes perfect sense and people typically only watch the movie once before returning. With over 15,000 kiosk available nationwide this service is also becoming very convenient for the customer. Perhaps one of the best features is that the rented DVD can be returned to any of the Redbox kiosk, keeping track of these changes is quite amazing. Redbox kiosk can hold around 700 disc with about 200 different titles available. More impressive is Netflix's 100,000 titles to choose from. But perhaps this is also a drawback for Netflix. Sorting through and deciding on one out of 200 seems a lot more realistic than through 100,000 titles. I think that Redbox has hit a gold mine. I personally have used the service and have been very pleased with the available titles and convenience. This seems to be another technological breakthrough that millions will come to enjoy. Whether getting groceries or gas, why not spend $1 and have a little entertainment for the evening? I think the kiosk service will continue to be around and the Netflix mail-order may have an uphill battle ahead.
http://www.news-record.com/blog/53458/entry/62561
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Journal 12, June 21
http://www.pcworld.com/businesscenter/article/166978/google_grabs_1_million_phone_numbers_for_google_voice.html?loomia_ow=t0:s0:a41:g2:r3:c0.050409:b25934090:z0
Ever get tired of using multiple phones and receiving messages on all of them? The hassle may end soon with the expected debut of Google Voice. Once again a major internet market is continually trying to improve its services by bundling numerous services into one. Last month Google obtained 1 million phone numbers through Level 3. This new service will bundle multiple telephone numbers into one. How does this work? If a Google Voice number is obtained this can be dialed and any telephone numbers associated with the account will be called; whether mobile, home or work. Currently this service is expected to debut with a free price tag on it. Not only will this service ring multiple numbers, it will also allow messages to be taken. These voicemail messages can also be transcribed by the computer and sent to either email or as SMS. Also an option will be available to screen callers, listen to them as they leave messages, and make them speak there name before calls will be forwarded. The options do not stop there. Outgoing calls and SMS will also be available via the internet. With access to Google Voice subscribers will be able to make outgoing calls with no charge on national calls and a reasonable international rates. Also outgoing SMS messages can be sent via computer and a number will be assigned so that you can be responded to. This technological progression that Google is showing, is quite amazing to me. Now that I have seen this, I will definitely be interested in subscribing. I think this will be a great hit with the general public, when released in the near future. The only problem I can possibly see is in the work-world. What do I mean by this? Often places of work will restrict employees from mobile phone use. With this technology it will be possible for them to have the access to all there phones, assuming they work with internet access. And in today's world, that is much of the population. I think that if this service is a success many companies will have to place restrictions on this program. Once again, only time will tell how this new technology will work.
http://searchengineland.com/google-voice-bracing-for-expansion-21328
http://www.salon.com/tech/giga_om/web_life/2009/06/19/google_voice_to_offer_phone_and_messaging_services/index.html?source=rss&aim=/tech/giga_om/web_life
Ever get tired of using multiple phones and receiving messages on all of them? The hassle may end soon with the expected debut of Google Voice. Once again a major internet market is continually trying to improve its services by bundling numerous services into one. Last month Google obtained 1 million phone numbers through Level 3. This new service will bundle multiple telephone numbers into one. How does this work? If a Google Voice number is obtained this can be dialed and any telephone numbers associated with the account will be called; whether mobile, home or work. Currently this service is expected to debut with a free price tag on it. Not only will this service ring multiple numbers, it will also allow messages to be taken. These voicemail messages can also be transcribed by the computer and sent to either email or as SMS. Also an option will be available to screen callers, listen to them as they leave messages, and make them speak there name before calls will be forwarded. The options do not stop there. Outgoing calls and SMS will also be available via the internet. With access to Google Voice subscribers will be able to make outgoing calls with no charge on national calls and a reasonable international rates. Also outgoing SMS messages can be sent via computer and a number will be assigned so that you can be responded to. This technological progression that Google is showing, is quite amazing to me. Now that I have seen this, I will definitely be interested in subscribing. I think this will be a great hit with the general public, when released in the near future. The only problem I can possibly see is in the work-world. What do I mean by this? Often places of work will restrict employees from mobile phone use. With this technology it will be possible for them to have the access to all there phones, assuming they work with internet access. And in today's world, that is much of the population. I think that if this service is a success many companies will have to place restrictions on this program. Once again, only time will tell how this new technology will work.
http://searchengineland.com/google-voice-bracing-for-expansion-21328
http://www.salon.com/tech/giga_om/web_life/2009/06/19/google_voice_to_offer_phone_and_messaging_services/index.html?source=rss&aim=/tech/giga_om/web_life
Friday, June 19, 2009
Journal 11, June 21
http://tech.yahoo.com/news/ap/20090619/ap_on_hi_te/as_china_google
The ever-rising popularity of pornography and other offensive sites on the internet is facing resistance in certain countries. China is on the forefront of blocking these sights primarily from its youth. Announced Friday, Google Inc. has agreed to step up its efforts to block these sights from its Chinese search engine. "We have been continually working to deal with pornographic content — and material that is harmful to children — on the Web in China," a statement released by Google after accusations from the Chinese Government. With China having the largest amount of internet users worldwide, at 298+ million, Google cannot afford to not make a conscience effort to fight this problem. Currently Google controls about 30% of the search engine market and wants to expand. With the strict restrictions of the Chinese government, Google executives must agree to cooperate with their regulations. Though the Chinese government claims to only do this in regards to pornographic, gambling, and other offensive sights, many think there is more. Some continue to see these restrictions as a means for the government to block many other topics such as sensitive political information. Whether that is the case or not, I think that there effort to block the offensive sights from its youth is very good. If a country as large as China can control such things from its people, I sometimes wonder why we cannot. I do not think that a very conservative filter needs to be put in place, but when it comes to children viewing these sights a lot more effort should be put in by our government. I believe human rights are very important in today's society, but at the same time I do not see some government controlled filters risking these rights. If Google is willing to make these efforts from China why not consider doing something for there country of origin. Perhaps if Google gets this problem engineered out in the near future for China, affects will be seen here in America. If indeed China is doing this with regard for their children and youth, I applaud them for their efforts.
http://www.reuters.com/article/bigMoney/idUS301290404020090619
The ever-rising popularity of pornography and other offensive sites on the internet is facing resistance in certain countries. China is on the forefront of blocking these sights primarily from its youth. Announced Friday, Google Inc. has agreed to step up its efforts to block these sights from its Chinese search engine. "We have been continually working to deal with pornographic content — and material that is harmful to children — on the Web in China," a statement released by Google after accusations from the Chinese Government. With China having the largest amount of internet users worldwide, at 298+ million, Google cannot afford to not make a conscience effort to fight this problem. Currently Google controls about 30% of the search engine market and wants to expand. With the strict restrictions of the Chinese government, Google executives must agree to cooperate with their regulations. Though the Chinese government claims to only do this in regards to pornographic, gambling, and other offensive sights, many think there is more. Some continue to see these restrictions as a means for the government to block many other topics such as sensitive political information. Whether that is the case or not, I think that there effort to block the offensive sights from its youth is very good. If a country as large as China can control such things from its people, I sometimes wonder why we cannot. I do not think that a very conservative filter needs to be put in place, but when it comes to children viewing these sights a lot more effort should be put in by our government. I believe human rights are very important in today's society, but at the same time I do not see some government controlled filters risking these rights. If Google is willing to make these efforts from China why not consider doing something for there country of origin. Perhaps if Google gets this problem engineered out in the near future for China, affects will be seen here in America. If indeed China is doing this with regard for their children and youth, I applaud them for their efforts.
http://www.reuters.com/article/bigMoney/idUS301290404020090619
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Journal 10, June 21
http://tech.yahoo.com/news/pcworld/20090618/tc_pcworld/spammerscashinginontwitterirannewiphone
Email spammers are possibly the most wide spread of any, but there are plenty of other forms being generated. Those generating spam in various forms are hot on the trail of today's topics. A trend has been recently noticed; spammers are blowing up the "tweeting" space on the ever popular site Twitter. In recent days these tweets have focused on two very hot topics; Iran and the new iPhone 3.o OS. Fake Twitter accounts have been created to draw attention of people by stating things such as, "iPhone OS 3.0 Just Launched. Here are 20 Things To Do With It". When the accompanying links are clicked, the viewer is directed to sites that promote male enhancement. Not only are fake accounts being created, legitimate accounts are also being hacked into and generating such spam. Not only has the iPhone topic been a hot one, but also the recent election that took place in Iran. Spammers have recently used both of these topics to target the interest of Twitter users worldwide. Because of the recent increase in spam on famous social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook, certain internet entrepreneur's have banned such sites from employees. Marc Cuban, owner of Dallas Mavericks and chairman of HDNet, recently asked his employees to refrain from using Facebook due to the ever spreading viruses. I think this is a very smart move on his part. There is really no current way to fight this trend than to do such things as refrain from using these sights all together. I think that Mr. Cuban is getting a head start on something that others will face in the near future. Not to be outdone, old-fashioned email spammers have recently been sending emails with fake invitations to join Twitter. These fake attachments are recently been known to be worms to infect the computer. All in all, no matter what form spam will occur in, it will continue to affect our society in a negative way. Will there ever been a true fix to this problem? Or will the only way to completely avoid them be to refrain from using today's technological advances? These question will continue to be asked in the near future.
http://www.itworld.com/security/69488/twitter-plays-key-role-dos-attacks-iran
Email spammers are possibly the most wide spread of any, but there are plenty of other forms being generated. Those generating spam in various forms are hot on the trail of today's topics. A trend has been recently noticed; spammers are blowing up the "tweeting" space on the ever popular site Twitter. In recent days these tweets have focused on two very hot topics; Iran and the new iPhone 3.o OS. Fake Twitter accounts have been created to draw attention of people by stating things such as, "iPhone OS 3.0 Just Launched. Here are 20 Things To Do With It". When the accompanying links are clicked, the viewer is directed to sites that promote male enhancement. Not only are fake accounts being created, legitimate accounts are also being hacked into and generating such spam. Not only has the iPhone topic been a hot one, but also the recent election that took place in Iran. Spammers have recently used both of these topics to target the interest of Twitter users worldwide. Because of the recent increase in spam on famous social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook, certain internet entrepreneur's have banned such sites from employees. Marc Cuban, owner of Dallas Mavericks and chairman of HDNet, recently asked his employees to refrain from using Facebook due to the ever spreading viruses. I think this is a very smart move on his part. There is really no current way to fight this trend than to do such things as refrain from using these sights all together. I think that Mr. Cuban is getting a head start on something that others will face in the near future. Not to be outdone, old-fashioned email spammers have recently been sending emails with fake invitations to join Twitter. These fake attachments are recently been known to be worms to infect the computer. All in all, no matter what form spam will occur in, it will continue to affect our society in a negative way. Will there ever been a true fix to this problem? Or will the only way to completely avoid them be to refrain from using today's technological advances? These question will continue to be asked in the near future.
http://www.itworld.com/security/69488/twitter-plays-key-role-dos-attacks-iran
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Journal 9, June 14
http://tech.yahoo.com/news/nm/20090611/tc_nm/us_microsoft_security
Ever get tired of viruses corrupting your computer or better yet, paying for a yearly subscription to software that is supposed to prevent it? Having to renew this virus software yearly can be a hassle and another expense that many would like to prevent. Recently announced the world's largest software manufacturer, Microsoft, will be releasing a free anti-virus service for personal computers. This new software is currently in the testing phase by allowing the employees of Microsoft test the product. Currently there is no release date to the public, but it is expected before the close of 2009. This announcement comes as relief to many, including me. It is inevitable that anti-virus software is needed in today's cyber-age, but myself and many others do not like the hassle and cost of renewal each year. Having a reputable name such as Microsoft plan to release a free version in the near future is likely to draw the attention of many. Symantec Corp. and McAfee Inc., the two largest producers of the current yearly renewal software, told reporters that they do not see this new software as a threat to them.
"Microsoft's free product is basically a stripped down version of the OneCare product Microsoft pulled from the shelves," said Symantec Consumer division president Janice Chaffin. "A full Internet security suite is what consumers require today to stay fully protected."
The final product that Microsoft will produce, and its capabilities are currently unknown. But it seems to me that if other subscription products are looked at on an equivalent level, the everyday consumer will go for the free version. Why pay $30-$40 annually when a free version is legally available? I also realize that there are currently free versions of anti-virus on the market, but it is my hope that a reputable name such as Microsoft will produce a competitive and effective software. In the end it does make me wonder how in-depth and effective this product will prove to be. I hope that Microsoft will take its time developing this software and make it right before jumping the gun on the release. A free effective product with Microsoft tagged on it, will gain a lot of respect and use from the personal computer users.
http://www.spy.im/microsoft-will-soon-unveil-free-anti-virus-software-5-146297.html
http://www.wincert.net/news/1464-microsoft-will-soon-unveil-free-virus-software.html
Ever get tired of viruses corrupting your computer or better yet, paying for a yearly subscription to software that is supposed to prevent it? Having to renew this virus software yearly can be a hassle and another expense that many would like to prevent. Recently announced the world's largest software manufacturer, Microsoft, will be releasing a free anti-virus service for personal computers. This new software is currently in the testing phase by allowing the employees of Microsoft test the product. Currently there is no release date to the public, but it is expected before the close of 2009. This announcement comes as relief to many, including me. It is inevitable that anti-virus software is needed in today's cyber-age, but myself and many others do not like the hassle and cost of renewal each year. Having a reputable name such as Microsoft plan to release a free version in the near future is likely to draw the attention of many. Symantec Corp. and McAfee Inc., the two largest producers of the current yearly renewal software, told reporters that they do not see this new software as a threat to them.
"Microsoft's free product is basically a stripped down version of the OneCare product Microsoft pulled from the shelves," said Symantec Consumer division president Janice Chaffin. "A full Internet security suite is what consumers require today to stay fully protected."
The final product that Microsoft will produce, and its capabilities are currently unknown. But it seems to me that if other subscription products are looked at on an equivalent level, the everyday consumer will go for the free version. Why pay $30-$40 annually when a free version is legally available? I also realize that there are currently free versions of anti-virus on the market, but it is my hope that a reputable name such as Microsoft will produce a competitive and effective software. In the end it does make me wonder how in-depth and effective this product will prove to be. I hope that Microsoft will take its time developing this software and make it right before jumping the gun on the release. A free effective product with Microsoft tagged on it, will gain a lot of respect and use from the personal computer users.
http://www.spy.im/microsoft-will-soon-unveil-free-anti-virus-software-5-146297.html
http://www.wincert.net/news/1464-microsoft-will-soon-unveil-free-virus-software.html
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Journal 8, June 14
http://tech.yahoo.com/news/ap/20090610/ap_on_hi_te/us_tec_craigslist_revenue
When it comes to buying and selling anything and everything on the internet Craigslist is the place to look. This classified site has soared in popularity and is now said to be soaring in revenue. Reports show that Craigslist is set to reach $100 Million in revenue this year, up a staggering 23 percent from last year. This sight has proven to be very effective. What I find amazing is this sight allows free ads to be posted and no charge to view as well. You may ask how such revenue is possible? Though most classifieds remain free, it does cost to post employment opportunities, housing ads, and adult only ads. Employment opportunities are expected to account for $85 million, employment for $9 million, and adult-only $4 million. It is also said that the majority of this is produced in New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. With the current state of the economy, I find it amazing that such increases are expected for Craigslist. Newspaper classifieds have decreased nearly 50% in the past 8 years and other internet advertisement has seen its first decrease in spending since 2002. I guess Craigslist is doing something right to increase its margins. To me it seems that the over all "no-cost" theme is what continually gets the attention of people. There are other classified businesses like this but it seems that they charge something for their services. For me personally, another draw to Craigslist is its simplicity. By this I am referring to the simple, easy to navigate site and also the fact that usernames and passwords are not yet required. Being able to simply access what you want without all this seems to make things a lot simpler, at least in my opinion. Also the fact that this sight is truly a nationwide site, covering many major cities and towns is attractive as well. The only drawback I see in the near future may be the false advertisements or spam that is beginning to surface. With only 30 employees currently, I begin to wonder if they can combat all the spam. If they continue in the same direction I believe they will continue to see revenue increases by just keeping a simple sight and charging for only select classified ads. I know I will keep using it.
http://www.webpronews.com/topnews/2009/06/10/estimate-puts-craigslists-2009-revenue-at-100-million
http://news.cnet.com/8301-17852_3-10261593-71.html
When it comes to buying and selling anything and everything on the internet Craigslist is the place to look. This classified site has soared in popularity and is now said to be soaring in revenue. Reports show that Craigslist is set to reach $100 Million in revenue this year, up a staggering 23 percent from last year. This sight has proven to be very effective. What I find amazing is this sight allows free ads to be posted and no charge to view as well. You may ask how such revenue is possible? Though most classifieds remain free, it does cost to post employment opportunities, housing ads, and adult only ads. Employment opportunities are expected to account for $85 million, employment for $9 million, and adult-only $4 million. It is also said that the majority of this is produced in New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. With the current state of the economy, I find it amazing that such increases are expected for Craigslist. Newspaper classifieds have decreased nearly 50% in the past 8 years and other internet advertisement has seen its first decrease in spending since 2002. I guess Craigslist is doing something right to increase its margins. To me it seems that the over all "no-cost" theme is what continually gets the attention of people. There are other classified businesses like this but it seems that they charge something for their services. For me personally, another draw to Craigslist is its simplicity. By this I am referring to the simple, easy to navigate site and also the fact that usernames and passwords are not yet required. Being able to simply access what you want without all this seems to make things a lot simpler, at least in my opinion. Also the fact that this sight is truly a nationwide site, covering many major cities and towns is attractive as well. The only drawback I see in the near future may be the false advertisements or spam that is beginning to surface. With only 30 employees currently, I begin to wonder if they can combat all the spam. If they continue in the same direction I believe they will continue to see revenue increases by just keeping a simple sight and charging for only select classified ads. I know I will keep using it.
http://www.webpronews.com/topnews/2009/06/10/estimate-puts-craigslists-2009-revenue-at-100-million
http://news.cnet.com/8301-17852_3-10261593-71.html
Monday, June 8, 2009
Journal 7, June 14
http://tech.yahoo.com/news/nm/20090608/wr_nm/us_china_software
The pornography market on the internet is a worldwide money maker. Access to these adult sights has become less that simple to view. Pop up advertisements and emails provide a simple means of access for people of all ages, with very few restrictions or filters. Recently, the Chinese government has decided to crack down on a child's ability to view this pornography. There government will now force computer manufacturers to pre-install or provide program disk of a web filtering program. The software called, "Green Dam-Youth Escort" will supposedly filter certain words and also is capable of filtering certain images that it detects. China says this is just a means of protecting its children from today's pornography market. Creators of the software have told the media that this software is what it is; simply a means to help fight children viewing pornography. Other speculations are afloat about it though. To many this seems like another means for the Chinese government to have full control over its internet users. Already in place, the government bans a lot of everyday internet sights from its citizens. Some of these sights include YouTube and Microsoft Bing. Many are concerned this new requirement is more than it seems. As an US embassy spokesman said, "We would view any attempt to restrict the free flow of information with great concern and as incompatible with China's aspirations to build a modern, information-based economy and society". I understand this concern from many people, but at the same time I think this is a very good idea. I see no harm in providing this software on all new computers for the customer. After all, the software can be deleted or temporarily disengaged by means of a password. We could use this in America. I understand that there are programs that can be bought for this purpose, but the government providing it to those who purchase computers would help. Most parents will probably just talk to their children about the issue and not spend the money on buying such software. If the government forced computer companies to provide this software it would possibly reduce the likely-hood of children viewing pornography. I understand that many see this as the government trying to control individuals freedoms but because of the fact that the software can simply be deleted or disabled I do not think this is the case. If the Chinese government is sincerely doing this as a means to block pornography from its children, I see absolutely nothing wrong with this; in fact I think the US should take something from this.
http://tech.yahoo.com/news/pcworld/20090608/tc_pcworld/chinademandsnewpcshavewebsiteblockingprogram
http://tech.yahoo.com/news/ap/20090608/ap_on_hi_te/as_china_internet
The pornography market on the internet is a worldwide money maker. Access to these adult sights has become less that simple to view. Pop up advertisements and emails provide a simple means of access for people of all ages, with very few restrictions or filters. Recently, the Chinese government has decided to crack down on a child's ability to view this pornography. There government will now force computer manufacturers to pre-install or provide program disk of a web filtering program. The software called, "Green Dam-Youth Escort" will supposedly filter certain words and also is capable of filtering certain images that it detects. China says this is just a means of protecting its children from today's pornography market. Creators of the software have told the media that this software is what it is; simply a means to help fight children viewing pornography. Other speculations are afloat about it though. To many this seems like another means for the Chinese government to have full control over its internet users. Already in place, the government bans a lot of everyday internet sights from its citizens. Some of these sights include YouTube and Microsoft Bing. Many are concerned this new requirement is more than it seems. As an US embassy spokesman said, "We would view any attempt to restrict the free flow of information with great concern and as incompatible with China's aspirations to build a modern, information-based economy and society". I understand this concern from many people, but at the same time I think this is a very good idea. I see no harm in providing this software on all new computers for the customer. After all, the software can be deleted or temporarily disengaged by means of a password. We could use this in America. I understand that there are programs that can be bought for this purpose, but the government providing it to those who purchase computers would help. Most parents will probably just talk to their children about the issue and not spend the money on buying such software. If the government forced computer companies to provide this software it would possibly reduce the likely-hood of children viewing pornography. I understand that many see this as the government trying to control individuals freedoms but because of the fact that the software can simply be deleted or disabled I do not think this is the case. If the Chinese government is sincerely doing this as a means to block pornography from its children, I see absolutely nothing wrong with this; in fact I think the US should take something from this.
http://tech.yahoo.com/news/pcworld/20090608/tc_pcworld/chinademandsnewpcshavewebsiteblockingprogram
http://tech.yahoo.com/news/ap/20090608/ap_on_hi_te/as_china_internet
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Journal 6, June 7
http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/usithealthcompanygtxaetrex
Today's market for GPS technology is continually evolving and growing. The advances that have been made are quite remarkable when it comes to finding yourself or others on the spot. Tracking people and things has already been incorporated into many applications; vehicles, cellphones, and stolen money are just a few examples. Announced recently, two companies have teamed up to form the first pair of shoes with GPS tracking capability to help fight the problem of wandering Alzheimer's patients. Research teams say the technology will provide the capability to locate an individual to within 30 feet. Having a grandmother that suffered from this disease, I see this new device to be very useful in the near future. It has become very typical for Alzheimer's patients to wander and become lost very often and easily. Andrew Carle, an assistant professor at George Mason University, recently stated, "Sixty percent of individuals afflicted with Alzheimer's Disease will be involved in a 'critical wandering incident' at least once during the progression of the disease -- many more than once". It seems to me that this new technology will become very helpful when considering this shocking statistic. Since a cure has not yet been discovered for the Alzheimer's Disease, I think that any technology to help with its affects is vital. The developers have decided to embed this device in the shoe since it is natural for suffering patients to readily remove anything that is not typical to them. Perhaps the most unique feature of this technology is the ability to set a certain boundary for the patient. Will it shock them if they cross it? Not quite! If the boundary is crossed, authorized individuals will be notified via cellphone allowing them to immediate check on the patient. Testing on the product has not yet been conducted but will begin in the near future. I think this new technology will be very effective and comes at a great time of need. The only question I have is how the individual will know which pair of shoes to wear? I guess to make it simple, only one pair of shoes will be available for the individual.
http://www.geardiary.com/2009/06/06/gps-shoes-for-alzheimers-patients/
Today's market for GPS technology is continually evolving and growing. The advances that have been made are quite remarkable when it comes to finding yourself or others on the spot. Tracking people and things has already been incorporated into many applications; vehicles, cellphones, and stolen money are just a few examples. Announced recently, two companies have teamed up to form the first pair of shoes with GPS tracking capability to help fight the problem of wandering Alzheimer's patients. Research teams say the technology will provide the capability to locate an individual to within 30 feet. Having a grandmother that suffered from this disease, I see this new device to be very useful in the near future. It has become very typical for Alzheimer's patients to wander and become lost very often and easily. Andrew Carle, an assistant professor at George Mason University, recently stated, "Sixty percent of individuals afflicted with Alzheimer's Disease will be involved in a 'critical wandering incident' at least once during the progression of the disease -- many more than once". It seems to me that this new technology will become very helpful when considering this shocking statistic. Since a cure has not yet been discovered for the Alzheimer's Disease, I think that any technology to help with its affects is vital. The developers have decided to embed this device in the shoe since it is natural for suffering patients to readily remove anything that is not typical to them. Perhaps the most unique feature of this technology is the ability to set a certain boundary for the patient. Will it shock them if they cross it? Not quite! If the boundary is crossed, authorized individuals will be notified via cellphone allowing them to immediate check on the patient. Testing on the product has not yet been conducted but will begin in the near future. I think this new technology will be very effective and comes at a great time of need. The only question I have is how the individual will know which pair of shoes to wear? I guess to make it simple, only one pair of shoes will be available for the individual.
http://www.geardiary.com/2009/06/06/gps-shoes-for-alzheimers-patients/
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Journal 5, June 7
http://tech.yahoo.com/news/nm/20090602/wr_nm/us_afghanistan_twitter
Today's social networking craze has reached into the realm of the US military. Recently announced, the US military has begun to Twitter. Huh, what in the world does that mean? The thriving "tell everyone your business" website, Twitter, has attracted the attention of Americas Armed Forces. Recently officials have begun to post actual events that have recently occurred in the Afghanistan campaign of Operation Enduring Freedom. Tweeted on Tuesday officials had to say, "Afghan & coalition forces killed six militants in Paktika Province overnight during a (sic) operation to capture a Taliban commander." This new strategy has come about for a few different reasons. One is to counter the technological advance of the insurgents and their ability to harness the internet and text messaging. And finally this new social crave allows the US military to release unfiltered, genuine news from the war without the obscured view of today's media and the propaganda of the extremist. These social network releases are capable of releasing information before the it gets to the main stream media. Not only has Twitter been in use recently, but military officials have also begun to utilize Facebook and YouTube. Officials have encouraged troops to post photos and videos of daily life on the available forums. I see this overall trend as being very effective. Having been recently deployed to Afghanistan myself, it is nice to finally be able to hear real time events from the mouths of those that were there. I believe that Tweeting these small details will arouse peoples curiosity to hear the entire story and not just the filtered media that is often displayed. Perhaps more useful will be the Facebook and YouTube sites. These will allow for more information to be displayed and often from the actual soldiers themselves. Though it is inevitable that a lot of negative can and will come from this, perhaps it will influence the mainstream media to share more of the story to match these feeds straight from those involved. With all the positive affects of social networking in this case, I can not look over a few negatives that I believe are present. What about our information security? Will to much information slip at? How do we filter certain post? I ask myself these questions in regards to the possible negative affects. Perhaps one day to much information will surface at the wrong time and cause a ripple effect. It is inevitable that the insurgents have also grasped the power of the internet and can access these feeds as readily as any other individual. In the end, time will only tell of its outcome but I believe it is a very smart move on part of the military officials to stream this news first hand.
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5g41GPGQo0ehUaEaDv-ePcqqrXf_AD98I49BG0
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2009/06/us_military_in_afghanistan_tur.html
Today's social networking craze has reached into the realm of the US military. Recently announced, the US military has begun to Twitter. Huh, what in the world does that mean? The thriving "tell everyone your business" website, Twitter, has attracted the attention of Americas Armed Forces. Recently officials have begun to post actual events that have recently occurred in the Afghanistan campaign of Operation Enduring Freedom. Tweeted on Tuesday officials had to say, "Afghan & coalition forces killed six militants in Paktika Province overnight during a (sic) operation to capture a Taliban commander." This new strategy has come about for a few different reasons. One is to counter the technological advance of the insurgents and their ability to harness the internet and text messaging. And finally this new social crave allows the US military to release unfiltered, genuine news from the war without the obscured view of today's media and the propaganda of the extremist. These social network releases are capable of releasing information before the it gets to the main stream media. Not only has Twitter been in use recently, but military officials have also begun to utilize Facebook and YouTube. Officials have encouraged troops to post photos and videos of daily life on the available forums. I see this overall trend as being very effective. Having been recently deployed to Afghanistan myself, it is nice to finally be able to hear real time events from the mouths of those that were there. I believe that Tweeting these small details will arouse peoples curiosity to hear the entire story and not just the filtered media that is often displayed. Perhaps more useful will be the Facebook and YouTube sites. These will allow for more information to be displayed and often from the actual soldiers themselves. Though it is inevitable that a lot of negative can and will come from this, perhaps it will influence the mainstream media to share more of the story to match these feeds straight from those involved. With all the positive affects of social networking in this case, I can not look over a few negatives that I believe are present. What about our information security? Will to much information slip at? How do we filter certain post? I ask myself these questions in regards to the possible negative affects. Perhaps one day to much information will surface at the wrong time and cause a ripple effect. It is inevitable that the insurgents have also grasped the power of the internet and can access these feeds as readily as any other individual. In the end, time will only tell of its outcome but I believe it is a very smart move on part of the military officials to stream this news first hand.
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5g41GPGQo0ehUaEaDv-ePcqqrXf_AD98I49BG0
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2009/06/us_military_in_afghanistan_tur.html
Monday, June 1, 2009
Journal 4, June 7
http://www.reuters.com/article/marketsNews/idUSN0132449820090601
Microsoft Corporation once again plans on increasing the capability of its Xbox 360 console. This time they have begun preparations to integrate social networks Facebook and Twitter into its Xbox Live community. I believe this new feature is just another way to incorporate many of today's technological devices with the most popular social networking sites. With applications for Facebook on the IPhone and Blackberry, it seems inevitable that such would soon be available on gaming consoles. This combination of today's popular devices and services seems to be the new trend in technology. I believe the thriving gaming community in today's society is the prime place to test this trend. Implementing these onto to the Xbox Live community will eliminate the need for gamers to use their normal PC. They will soon be able to communicate between gaming friends as well as friends on Facebook and Twitter all on the Xbox console. Gamers will also be able to share their current gaming activities with others on Facebook profiles. While chatting with Xbox Live friends you will also be able to communicate with Facebook friends in the same type window. If the user feels the need, they will also be able to upload screen shots to share with others. I believe this has all in part come about after Microsoft's $240 million investment into Facebook in 2007. The 200+ million active users of the Facebook community will possibly bring Microsoft more business in the near future. At the introduction of this Shane Kim, Microsoft's vice president of strategy and business development for video games said, "This expands the reach of Xbox live. We have had an effort of making Xbox live a next-generation social and entertainment network." I can definitely see many advantages to this new feature. It will bring together alot more people in the gaming community and those outside. At the same time I can see possible negative affects. Being old fashioned like I am, this is just another reason for today's youth to become more dependant on video game consoles. With the current addiction to both video games and social networks, this new combination will take away from peoples time to get out. To me this online social networking also takes away from peoples face to face social skills; in fact I believe many have lost valuable communications skills due to this. Whether it is right or wrong, the success of this new combination of gaming and social networking is bound to be a success.
http://news.cnet.com/8301-10797_3-10253486-235.html
http://game.blogdig.net/archives/articles/June2009/01/Facebook__Twitter_on_Xbox_Live_this_fall.html
Microsoft Corporation once again plans on increasing the capability of its Xbox 360 console. This time they have begun preparations to integrate social networks Facebook and Twitter into its Xbox Live community. I believe this new feature is just another way to incorporate many of today's technological devices with the most popular social networking sites. With applications for Facebook on the IPhone and Blackberry, it seems inevitable that such would soon be available on gaming consoles. This combination of today's popular devices and services seems to be the new trend in technology. I believe the thriving gaming community in today's society is the prime place to test this trend. Implementing these onto to the Xbox Live community will eliminate the need for gamers to use their normal PC. They will soon be able to communicate between gaming friends as well as friends on Facebook and Twitter all on the Xbox console. Gamers will also be able to share their current gaming activities with others on Facebook profiles. While chatting with Xbox Live friends you will also be able to communicate with Facebook friends in the same type window. If the user feels the need, they will also be able to upload screen shots to share with others. I believe this has all in part come about after Microsoft's $240 million investment into Facebook in 2007. The 200+ million active users of the Facebook community will possibly bring Microsoft more business in the near future. At the introduction of this Shane Kim, Microsoft's vice president of strategy and business development for video games said, "This expands the reach of Xbox live. We have had an effort of making Xbox live a next-generation social and entertainment network." I can definitely see many advantages to this new feature. It will bring together alot more people in the gaming community and those outside. At the same time I can see possible negative affects. Being old fashioned like I am, this is just another reason for today's youth to become more dependant on video game consoles. With the current addiction to both video games and social networks, this new combination will take away from peoples time to get out. To me this online social networking also takes away from peoples face to face social skills; in fact I believe many have lost valuable communications skills due to this. Whether it is right or wrong, the success of this new combination of gaming and social networking is bound to be a success.
http://news.cnet.com/8301-10797_3-10253486-235.html
http://game.blogdig.net/archives/articles/June2009/01/Facebook__Twitter_on_Xbox_Live_this_fall.html
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