Just-in-time and content development
In these lean times just-in-time delivery methodologies come into their own. Now, more than ever, the focus turns to the cost-value curve and the optimization of resource use. Here the use of Kanban with its core pull rather than push concepts may be of value in the delivery of IT projects.
Clinton Keith has a good article on the application of Kanban in the games delivery cycle and how it can be used in conjunction with outsourced management for faster and more cost-effective performance.
While I don’t share all of his views (especially on documentation) there are distinct benefits in setting up projects this way that are of benefit to project teams. His examples form the world of games are relevant to learning or large content developement projects too.
Beware the HP Pavillion Tx1000
Over the last couple of years HP have overtaken Dell to become one of the largest providers of laptop computers. Eighteen months ago impressed by the specification on a new HP Pavillion Tx1000 and after having my trusty Acer stolen I bought one.
Big mistake!
From the off the laptop had issues with updates and screen controls etc, but I attributed this to lots of bells and whistles and my unfamiliarity with Vista. Then about two months ago my wireless went out, overnight. I did all of the HP recommended things to repair or restore it — no joy.
So then I googled and found myself on this HP forum with many other unhappy customers.
Frustrated I went out and purchased one of these. It worked great for a month but now the laptop refuses to recognise it and I am without wireless again. A laptop without wireless is less than useful!
So lessons learned:
- do not buy this laptop from HP
- if you buy a laptop from HP purchase the extended warranty
For what it’s worth my list of most reliable laptop manufacturers by longevity are:
- IBM — my early 1990′s 486 still runs under Windows 3
- Toshiba
- Dell/Acer
Disclaimer: I have never owned a Macintosh so it does not appear on the list
So, to conclude, the HP Pavillion Tx1000 is unreliable. HP refuse to acknowledge the problem, offer reasonable solutions other than expensive and allegedly unreliable repairs. So buy something, anything, else!