It's interesting how this whole thing started with the RIAA saying that consumers only own the "license" to listen to the music they purchase. According to them, the media doesn't matter. Using that logic, why I can't I return my scratched CD for a new media? If a CD is lost or stolen, why can't I mail someone a receipt and get a new disk since I own the license to the music? Why can't I convert my tape collection to CD for free. I OWN the license don't I? Its so hypocritical.
How can I feel sorry for their plight? Most music that I download consists of CD's or tapes which I own and are scratched; or owned at one time where it was lost or stolen.
If the music industry wants find out why sales are down (if what they say is even true) they should look no further than the crappy products that are hitting the shelves. There is only so much Britney Spears and candy ass boy bands the world can handle. Where is the quality music? Where are the artist that can actually play a instrument? Most of us are getting sick of listening to so called musicians who are nothing without producers, talented audio techs, and a drum kit.
Everyone knows that a degree is invaluable; in that get your foot in the door kind of way. In addition, certifications like the RHCE do carry some weight in certain sectors.
However, from what I've seen these days, its more important to know the business side of the technology that you implement or maintain. If you know technology AND know how it applies to everyday business from an end user and management perspective; you will prove yourself to be invaluable. This way, you're less likely to end up outsourced or laid off. Work on understanding how data flows as it applies to business in your area. Be able to diagram, manipulate data for decision makers, and suggest how technology could improve business functions.
If you focus on a few technologies and know the rest from a high level perspective, you'll be fine. Also work on project management, dressing and presenting yourself as a businessman, and making some good contacts. This will ensure that you can always find a good position.
The reason that I hate doing any type of tech support for friends, co-workers, family, or anyone one else I know, is the golden rule of fixing computers. Which reads, if you fix it for them once, the next time anything goes wrong, they blame you, or want you to immediately come and fix it. Then somehow think a fixed computer comes with a 5 year repair warranty. They will call you all the time to "ask a quick question", as if your time means nothing. After this happened a couple of times, I won't touch anyone's computer.
I really think evolution should try and keep a similar feel to Outlook at this stage. With Outlook so entrenched on the desktop; a similar feel is a great way to convince people to convert. My only criticism is Ximian is pricing their exchange connector way too high in my opinion. I would love to use Evolution to access my work email. However, at 69 bucks for a single user license there is little incentive to move away from Outlook; which so many have already paid for. If they considering pricing it around the 20 dollar range, maybe they would make up the difference on volume.
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It's interesting how this whole thing started with the RIAA saying that consumers only own the "license" to listen to the music they purchase. According to them, the media doesn't matter. Using that logic, why I can't I return my scratched CD for a new media? If a CD is lost or stolen, why can't I mail someone a receipt and get a new disk since I own the license to the music? Why can't I convert my tape collection to CD for free. I OWN the license don't I? Its so hypocritical.
How can I feel sorry for their plight? Most music that I download consists of CD's or tapes which I own and are scratched; or owned at one time where it was lost or stolen.
If the music industry wants find out why sales are down (if what they say is even true) they should look no further than the crappy products that are hitting the shelves. There is only so much Britney Spears and candy ass boy bands the world can handle. Where is the quality music? Where are the artist that can actually play a instrument? Most of us are getting sick of listening to so called musicians who are nothing without producers, talented audio techs, and a drum kit.
Everyone knows that a degree is invaluable; in that get your foot in the door kind of way. In addition, certifications like the RHCE do carry some weight in certain sectors. However, from what I've seen these days, its more important to know the business side of the technology that you implement or maintain. If you know technology AND know how it applies to everyday business from an end user and management perspective; you will prove yourself to be invaluable. This way, you're less likely to end up outsourced or laid off. Work on understanding how data flows as it applies to business in your area. Be able to diagram, manipulate data for decision makers, and suggest how technology could improve business functions. If you focus on a few technologies and know the rest from a high level perspective, you'll be fine. Also work on project management, dressing and presenting yourself as a businessman, and making some good contacts. This will ensure that you can always find a good position.
The reason that I hate doing any type of tech support for friends, co-workers, family, or anyone one else I know, is the golden rule of fixing computers. Which reads, if you fix it for them once, the next time anything goes wrong, they blame you, or want you to immediately come and fix it. Then somehow think a fixed computer comes with a 5 year repair warranty. They will call you all the time to "ask a quick question", as if your time means nothing. After this happened a couple of times, I won't touch anyone's computer.
It sucks, but Apple has to do what they have to do. I'm sure this has something to do with covering their butts from the wrath of the RIAA.
I really think evolution should try and keep a similar feel to Outlook at this stage. With Outlook so entrenched on the desktop; a similar feel is a great way to convince people to convert. My only criticism is Ximian is pricing their exchange connector way too high in my opinion. I would love to use Evolution to access my work email. However, at 69 bucks for a single user license there is little incentive to move away from Outlook; which so many have already paid for. If they considering pricing it around the 20 dollar range, maybe they would make up the difference on volume.