If ___ Were Smart, They Would Purchase ___

Every now and then when boredom kicks in, I like to ponder about mergers that could potentially make a big impact on the tech industry. Yes, while other men fantasize about women and cars, I day dream about corporate acquisitions. The following is a handful of tech mergers that should happen, if the companies were smart…

If Microsoft were smart, they would purchase Wolfram Alpha.

If Microsoft has shown anything lately, it is that they take search serious. So serious in fact, that they would revamp (and redirect) their current msn and live search engines into the decision engine, Bing. As it now appears, Bing does a great job of taking the results you would normally receive from a Google search and presenting them in an organized and centralized fashion. But as impressive and effective as Bing may be, the real hurdle Microsoft faces is getting the average Joe to switch his searching habits and give Google the boot. What Microsoft should do is scoop up and utilize the technology behind Wolfram Alpha’s computational knowledge engine before anybody else does. The merger would give Bing the push it needs, as even the almighty Google cannot return comparative results such as this.

If RIM were smart, they would purchase Palm.

Research In Motion, the company that brought us the Blackberry, has proven that they lack the hipness required to stay relative in the post-iPhone smart phone market. Their self proclaimed iPhone killer, the Storm, was lack luster to say the least. Palm on the other hand, after years of rapid decline, has manage to rebuild and bounce back. Having a team of ex-Apple employees seems to be a big help. The Palm Pre is generally accepted as the first real contender to the iPhone’s crown. However, Palm is still small enough that they would be ripe pickings for a big company facing a downward spiral. To put it in other words, in order for RIM to not become the next Palm, they should ironically, purchase Palm.

If Hulu were smart, they would purchase Revision3.

Despite the fact that Hulu is funded by corporations such as NBC, FOX and Disney, it is clear that they are going for a hip, web-trendy approach for their video streaming site. If rumors are true of Hulu’s content providers planning to charge for access, they better have plenty on the table in terms of free, exclusive content. When it comes to web media, few are more respected than Revision3. Merging them into the fold and offering their shows exclusively through hulu.com would provide some insurance in terms of page-visits to make up for those lost from charging for content.

Here’s some quickies…

If Google were smart, they would purchase Evernote.

The Goog pulled the plug on their Notebook web app. Why not give it a second shot with an already developed service with a loyal fan base?

If NewsCorp were smart, they would purchase Twitter.

Myspace is clearly losing the popularity contest to Facebook. It would not hurt to embrace the current infatuation with micro-blogging.

If Ebay were smart, they would purchase Craigslist.

If you can’t beat ’em, buy ’em.

Microsoft TechEd 2009

I am writing this blog post amidst unpacking my bags and settling in (i.e. watching the LOST and Fringe season finales), after an all-inclusive week long trip to mostly sunny California. My employer was kind enough to sponsor my attendance of Microsoft’s annual educational conference, TechEd. The shindig was hosted at the Los Angeles Convention center from May 11th – 15th, and was jam packed with an over abundance of Information Technology nerdiness.

The conference kicked off with a keynote speech from Bill Veghte, Senior Vice President for the Windows Business, where he informed us that the theme this year will be focused on the technology awaiting us on the road ahead, with the impending releases of Windows Server 2008 R2 and Windows 7. Along with a brief dog-and-pony show displaying features of both products, the most notable moment was when Bill announced that Windows 7 should be available to the public by this holiday season.

My time at the conference consisted of a plethora of Breakout and Birds-of-a-Feather sessions, as well as some interactive learning labs. Let me not forget the Partner Expo, which was introduced with more finger foods than you can shake a stick at, as well as an open bar to help wash them down. Vendor presence was fulfilled by the usual suspects, such as Dell, HP, Symantec, etc. Needless to say, I carried away more swag than I could fit in my TechEd tote bag.

From what I witnessed at the show, Windows Server 2008 R2 does not offer much that is particularly new, but instead incorporates features and functionality that was previously only obtainable via third party developers. Whereas application and desktop virtualization are the staple of companies such as VMWare and Citrix, both tasks can be obtained by Microsoft’s App-V and MED-V. Server virtualization can now be accomplished via Hyper-V. Sysadmins can have a tighter grasp on the end-user experience with desktop optimization (MDOP) and application management (AppLocker). So it seems, Microsoft is really pushing the concept of virtualization to embrace the color green, whether it be to cut costs or to reach for an eco friendly environment.

As far as the Windows 7 offerings, I was already pretty familiar with the OS from toying with the Beta and RC. One feature I was unaware of was the ability to create and attach virtual hard disks, handy for isolation environments. Microsoft also demoed XP Mode in Windows 7 via Windows Virtual PC, which comes free with the Professional, Ultimate, and Enterprise editions of the OS. As one can expect, there will exist tight integration between Windows 7 and Server 2008 R2.

I shied away from the developer side of the house, but from what I can gather, much emphasis was placed on Windows Azure and the future of cloud computing. Database administration puts me to sleep, but SQL Server 2008 seemed to be highly praised.

Being that this was my first TechEd, I was impressed by the showing of 7,000+ attendees. However, I heard employee grumblings that attendance was down 50% compared to last year. I assume we can blame a faltering economy for the decrease in numbers. Overall, I had a great time and very much enjoyed the wholesome learning environment. I give Microsoft a Golf-style round of applause for their efforts, and do look forward to attending future TechEds.

Welcome to the Dollhouse

Here’s hoping that you tuned in to catch Josh Whedon’s Dollhouse this past fall. Some consider the Sci-Fi/Drama the pinnacle of writer/director Josh Whedon’s career. After finding success with Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel, Whedon has had a bitter love/hate relationship with FOX. His 2002 series, Firefly was well received amongst viewers, but chopped up and spit out by FOX execs. The series was aired out of order and canceled prematurely. Many fans have yet to forgive FOX for this blasphemy, though the studio may redeem itself if it places its faith in the Dollhouse.

The concept Dollhouse is definitely intriguing. A well funded organization provides a unique service to those willing to pay. The Dollhouse accepts those whom have no where else to turn. Their minds are wiped and archived. Their bodies become relatively empty vessels, waiting to be populated with the fitting personality that the job requires. Once the arrangement has been fulfilled, the active has their mind re-wiped, with no recollection of the events that took place.

The moral dilemma of such a concept plays a major role in the story, as an ex-FBI agent becomes infatuated and obsessed with bringing down the Dollhouse, which exist to the general populace as only an urban legend. As questioned in the show, does removing a person’s memory also displace their soul, an arguably figurative term referring to what makes a person who they are? Throughout the series, there are hints that indicate that despite all of the memory wiping that may occur, some instincts inevitably carry over. You can change what a person thinks, but you can’t change whom they are.

Though the series has had a couple of sleeper episodes in the 12 episode first series, there have certainly been a fair share of memorable, thought provoking moments. It is undeniably a breath of fresh air to see a prime time series attempt to break the common mold and take a risqué approach. To attempt a series where the main character, Eliza Dushku in this case, has a different personality from week to week, is unheard of. How can we develop an essential emotional attachment to a character whom half the time has no emotions, and the other half they are artificially imposed? Mastermind, Josh Whedon manages to pull this off, by making the character not only adorably hot, but also someone whom we want to root for in hopes that she will become self-aware, and rebel against the agency that has (consensually) taken away years of her life.

While in writing, the series sounds of one that is destined for longevity, it seems to have the odds stacked against it. For as many prospective shows that have earned FOX’s backing, there are 10 more that have been cancelled before given a chance to become a mainstream success. Don’t even get me started on Arrested Development. And, of all the time slots to give a premiering series, the one you want to avoid is Friday nights, especially in a world that has yet to recognize the value of broadcast time shifting or streaming internet content.

As of this writing, it is unknown whether Dollhouse will be renewed for a second season. Even if it is, how much is FOX willing to tolerate of a show has yet to show signs of monumental viewership? Whether or not Dollhouse is allowed to capitalize on its potential, Josh Whedon has certainly proven that he deserves the respect that Sci-Fi enthusiast have bestowed upon him. Meanwhile, if you care to contribute to the continuing presence of Science Fiction in prime time, you owe it to yourself to watch Dollhouse, be it downloaded from iTunes, streamed from Hulu, or rented from Netflix. Emerge yourself in the Dollhouse, but be careful not to lose your mind ;)

All Up In My Twitterz Part 1

It used to be what we said that often got us into trouble. Now the trend seems to be drifting toward what we think that leaves us over exposed. As twitter.com becomes more and more mainstream, there increases the amount of eyes that view every thought we chose to document. In an age of social networking where very little remains sacred, the following are just a few examples of when people should have stepped away from the keyboard and kept their thoughts to themselves.

Celebrity relationships come and go like the change of seasons. However, the break up of Jennifer Anniston and John Mayer was especially notable amongst the internet crowd, as part of the blame was placed on Twitter. According to Ms. Anniston, she decided she had enough of his constant tweeting. The final straw was when he didn’t have time to return her calls, but instead used that time to update his status. Typical of a woman to demand all of the attention to herself, huh? Right.

Charlie Villanueva, forward for the Milwaukee Bucks, recently let his thumbs do a little too much talking, as he indulged in some tweetage at half time during a game with the Boston Celtics. Though the message was harmless enough, it threw a red flag for coach Scott Skiles, whom scolded Villanueva and demanded that he get focused on the game. Sometimes a stern talking to is needed, as the Bucks went on to win the game, and Villanueva finished with a team high of 19 points.

Speaking of basketball and micro blogging; never one to be outspoken, Dallas Mavricks owner Mark Cuban recently got fined by the NBA for micro blogging his frustrations with a referee. His rants, though mild, were quite expensive, costing him $25,000. At least somebody has found a way to monetize off of Twitter. Unsurprisingly, his tweets did not end there. Whose to say he can’t get his moneys worth?

Next time you apply for a job, make sure you have sealed the deal before you begin sharing your opinion of the position. One unfortunate candidate for a position at Cisco had to learn this the hard way. Her now infamous tweet, which stated, “Cisco just offered me a job! Now I have to weigh the utility of a fatty paycheck against the daily commute to San Jose and hating the work”, was quickly responded to by a Cisco rep. Needless to say, she did not get the job. But, she did get her 15 minutes of internet fame, if that counts for anything.

I believe that’s enough 140 character madness for one day. Check back shortly for Part 2.

The Mystery of the Four Toed Statue

The mystery and intrigue of LOST is what keeps us viewers coming back week after week. The anticipation that someday, the numerous unanswered questions will be addressed. Who are the Others? What is the Smoke Monster? Who is Jacob? One question in particular was brought up and quickly discarded, not to be mentioned for another three seasons. Who, or what, is the four toed statue?

The four toed statue was first seen during the LOST season 2 finale, Live Together Die Alone, as witnessed by main characters Sayid, Sun, and Jin. At the time, two points were brought up by Sayid; the fact that all that was left of the statue was the foot, and that the foot consisted of only four toes. Not much could be determined of the identity or origin. Speculation arose recently, when viewers got another glimpse of the statue during the Season 5 episode, Lafleur. Not only did this new visual disprove the theory that Homer Simpson was at one time an island native, but it also gave us some more insight as to whom the statue may represent.

One heavily supported theory floating around the interwebz is that the statue may actually be remnants of a dedication to the Egyptian god, Anibus. This thought actually mingles quite well with all of the other Egyptian themes hinted at throughout the series, such as the hieroglyphs, deserts, and drawings of the Sphinx. The statue was seen wearing what appears to be a shendyt and nemes (Egyptian clothings), as well as holding an ankh in each hand. According to legend, Anibus was responsible for protecting the dead and delivering them to the afterlife, which may explain some of the oddities associated with the Others and their ability to defy the aging process.

Speaking of aging, one individual in particular comes to mind as a possible candidate for the identity of the statue: Richard Alpert, whom seems to be a leader of sorts amongst the Others. At first, it appeared he had the ability to travel through time, but recent events help prove that he actually traverses it. Whether we came across him at 1954 or 2004, he looks as if he had not aged a day. Though the gift of immortality can very well apply to all of the island natives, Richard is the only Other we have witnessed with that ability.

Another clue may also help us decipher the origins of the four toed statue. The fact that the statue seemed to be holding an ankh in each hand does not seem to be mere coincidence. In the episode Lafleur, we come across an ankh in the possession of two individuals. The first comes in the form of a dead Paul, whom appeared to be having an inter Other-Dharma relationship with Amy. The next time we see the ankh is three years later when Horace Goodspeed discovers that his wife, also Amy, is holding onto her past lover’s belonging. Could Paul have been of more importance to the island than we were initially let on to believe, or does this prove that Horace is destined for more than falling victim to a purge?

One unlikely candidate for the four toed statue, can actually make the most sense of all: Mr. Lafleur himself, aka James Sawyer Ford. Our Oceanic flight 815 survivor and resident con-artist has proven to be of quite importance to the mythos of the island, thanks to the convenient properties of time travel. So far, we have witnessed him take on the job of Head of Security for the Dharma Initiative, but I have a feeling he may play a more important role after all is said and done. Also, the fact that Sawyer appeared to have an infected foot early on in season 5, may have hinted to him losing a toe at some point down the road.

Some theorist have pointed out that the statue resembles that of a woman’s physique. Could the statue symbolize one of the number of women that we have been introduced to throughout the show’s run? Kate, Juliet, or even Amy come to mind. However, the writers will have to put up a stronger case for this viewer to be convinced.

Whomever the four toed statue may be, it is just one of the many mysteries that keeps us at the edge of our seats, and proves that LOST will go down as one of the greatest shows our generation has ever seen.

The Demise of Best Buy

This past weekend, a friend and I stopped by a Best Buy department store. We didn’t go there with the intention to purchase anything, just to kill some time. As I walked through the isles, bombarded by obnoxiously over-helpful employees, I tried to think back to the last purchase I actually made in a Best Buy. Or, in any other brick and mortar electronics store, for that matter. It is a memory that I cannot recall.

Best Buy specifically is in an interesting predicament. Their bitter rival, Circuit City recently bit the bullet and gave in to the troubling economic times (take a drink). As Best Buy shifts their focus on the real king of the mountain, Walmart, now would be a good time for the big wigs to realize that they are not invulnerable to the same hardships that Circuit City faced.

The declining sales of physical media is not something that can be ignored. When I think movies or music, Itunes or Amazon is what immediately comes to mind. When it’s time for a new laptop or gadget, I prefer the comparability and customization that the web has to offer. When that new must-have video game is released, I want to trade in my used games for a discount, a service Amazon is now offering, as well as GameStop or EB Games. I have never purchased a big household appliance, such a washing machine or refrigerator at a Best Buy, and I don’t intend to anytime soon. It is hard to believe I am amongst a small minority in my buying habits.

So, while Best Buy is now targeting Walmart, it is a shift in their distribution model that they should be concerned with. A redesign of the horrendous bestbuy.com website would be a good start. A bigger push towards social networking couldn’t hurt. Perhaps a digital downloads store with some exclusivity deals would give them an edge. Whatever it is they do, they need to do it soon before Best Buy is swallowed, along with Walmart, by this common threat that is a sociological shift.

As I discussed this topic with my friend while we were exiting the department store, we made a wager as to how long Best Buy has before they join Circuit City, and the countless other failed franchises, in obscurity. My friend says 10 years, while I give them 6 at the most. And, while it will be a shame to see them go, if they have nothing desirable to bring to the table, I say good riddance.