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iQ Magazine articles are designed to help growing organizations use technology for business success. PDF versions of many of these articles are available at the top right of individual article pages. EducationConnected LearningIn classrooms around the world, educators and students embrace a future arriving now. Leading-Edge LearningA wireless network helps Mount Vernon City School District (NY) enhance education opportunities, improve communications, and more. Schools Deploy Converged Network Services over Cisco IP PhonesCharles County (MD) schools keep track of students and staff with new communications technology. Rural Schools Improve CommunicationCisco Systems and Data Eclipse help schools in rural Ohio deploy a converged wireless IP Communications network. Colleges Make the GradeSmaller colleges and universities are connecting vision with technology. New World LearningIn Jordan, companies, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies are collaborating to improve education. Financial ServicesCredit Union on WheelsPeople's Federal Credit Union finds an innovative way to get closer to members. Calling Parish National BankWhen growth began stretching the limits of its phone system, Parish National came up with a new solution. Insurance Companies Deliver Premium ServiceForward-thinking companies are updating their networks to deliver premium service while reducing costs. New Efficiencies for Financial Services OrganizationsSavvy financial-services organizations use converged networks to increase revenues, efficiencies, and customer care. GovernmentCommunity ConnectionsState and local governments build powerful environments through technology. Opportunity CallsCisco Systems and NEC Unified Solutions help Surprise, Arizona, communicate more effectively. Rural Community Prepares for GrowthABS Technology Architects helps Goochland County (VA) implement IP Communications. Canadian City Offers Broadband Without BordersFredericton empowers city employees and citizens with wireless networking. HealthcareImproving Community HealthcareCommunity hospitals embrace advanced network applications to enhance patient care and operational efficiency. Texas Clinic Uses Technology to Enhance HealthcareLa Fe Clinic, an El Paso clinic prescribes technology for total wellness. Improving Community Care with IP CommunicationsSequoia Community Health Centers works with Cisco and NetLogic to better serve its diverse patient population. Networking Delivers Healthy ConnectionsTechnology links healthcare providers for community success and patient safety. ManufacturingDistributor Creates a Foundation for GrowthHi-Link helps distributor MMCC build a new network to cut costs and handle business growth. Philosophy Supports Growth with TechnologyPhilosophy streamlines its operations and handles call-center and Website traffic in the competitive skin care market. Smart Supply SolutionsNetworked supply chains help small manufacturers do big things. Manufacturing a Strong NetworkManufacturers must strengthen their networks to compete in today's economy. Media & EntertainmentBuilding Tomorrow's BlockbustersUnified communications produces big benefits at Jerry Bruckheimer Films. NonprofitBusiness Enlightenment at a MonasteryAn empty toner cartridge inspires a new business model for a small order of Cistercian monks. Networking on the Wild(life) SideThe Wildlife Center of Virginia extends its mission globally via the network. RetailTime Is Money for RetailersRetailers use IP networking to speed customer service and payment processing. IP Phone Applications Provide a Recipe for SuccessA Subway sandwich franchisee uses network applications on IP phones to increase efficiency and motivate employees. Philosophy Supports Growth with TechnologyPhilosophy streamlines its operations and handles call-center and Website traffic in the competitive skin care market. Car Dealer Accelerates Customer ServiceAtlanta Classic Cars converges voice and data communications on one network. Retail EvolutionSMB retailers can use today's network technology to increase their competitiveness. Technology Supports Customer-Service TraditionMexico's El Surtidor de Occidente implemented a converged network to strengthen its legacy of superior customer service. Technology ServicesManaged Services Help You ThriveOut-tasking network functions let SMBs increase operational agility, reduce costs, and speed adoption of advanced technologies. Smooth Service from Resellers Keeps SMBs on TrackGet expert and reliable support, plus some camaraderie, from resellers Using Resellers to Move Above and BeyondTwo organizations found valuable assistance from Cisco certified resellers that applied both creative thinking and daring action to ensure their clients' success. IT Media's Upside PotentialGrowing with Technology Award runner up closes the generation gap. OtherDriven to SucceedPassion fuels this SMB to develop autonomous, or driverless, vehicles. Construction: Building Better CommunicationsCisco and SOS help an electrical contractor streamline job-site operations. Entertainment: State-of-the-Art Stadium Provides Home Field AdvantageThe NFL's premier address is now located in Arizona , where the new Cardinals Stadium is a showcase of innovation and design. Entertainment: Music Festival Goes WirelessBonnaroo Music & Arts Festival producers deploy a large, temporary wireless network "in the middle of nowhere." Hospitality: High-Tech HotelsHoteliers turn to the network to reduce costs and raise revenues. Legal: Law Firm Benefits from New Wireless NetworkeTribeca helps a New York law firm install a wireless network that is as secure as it is invisible. Legal: A Strong Opening for a Law FirmCisco Systems and eNETsolutions help start-up law firm Ebanks, Smith & Carlson turn IP Communications into a business asset. Routing and SwitchingAddressing Infrastructure NeedsIs your network equipped to handle your current and future needs? A Network That's Built to LastA secure, reliable network infrastructure is critical to support growth, enable efficient operations, and improve communications. Accelerating Business with BroadbandSMBs worldwide are discovering how to reach their business goals faster. Routing Technology Opens the DoorThe evolution of routing technology is unlocking a new world of communication and efficiencies for small and medium-sized businesses. What You Need to Know about NetworkingRouting and switching are crucial to your company's success. What Is Internet Protocol?The underlying standards that govern your network are growing and changing to better serve your business. IP Communications / Unified Communications / VoIPUnderstanding the Customer from Every AngleCisco Unified Communications solution integrates with Microsoft CRM. Securing Voice CommunicationsConverged voice and data communications can be more secure than traditional telephone calls. Here's how to ensure yours are. Small Businesses Dial in to the NetworkIP-based PBX can save you money and improve communications. Two-Way Radios Join the NetworkIP standardizes communications between push-to-talk radios. Extending IP Phones with New ApplicationsOpen up a new field of opportunities by running business applications on IP-based phones. Making the Switch to a Converged NetworkMoving to a converged voice and data network doesn't have to be disruptive. The Future Calls (on an IP Phone)SMBs are benefiting from replacing aging telecommunications technology. Making IP Telephony AffordableManaged telephony can boost productivity without busting the budget. Beyond the Conference CallRich-media conferencing provides an effective way to collaborate. SecurityGeneral Network SecurityCombining Security and Regulatory ComplianceUsing best practices for network security sets a course to time savings, asset protection, and sales to big customers. Watching Over Your NetworkEvery business needs to protect data on its network. Where do you start? How do you keep your protection up-to-date? Securing Voice CommunicationsConverged voice and data communications can be more secure than traditional telephone calls. Here's how to ensure yours are. Managing Security DataSecurity systems put IT staff in a sea of data to be analyzed, acted upon, and reported. Here's how to bring it under control. Securing IP CommunicationsSmart technology and good practices deliver a secure environment for both voice and data. Self-Defending NetworksAdaptive security solutions can help you manage evolving network threats. Addressing Network SecurityMany SMBs do not have adequate network security. Here's how to make sure you do. Adaptive SecurityConvergence among network security technologies can help you cope with emerging threats. Wireless SecurityAddressing Wireless SecurityMore mobility and wireless applications require increased vigilance. Securing WirelessRogue access points put your network at risk. Security TrendsThe Impact of Lost or Stolen DataSome scary issues keep IT professionals up at night. Security for Remote UsersGeographically dispersed users require strong network defenses. Beware the Social EngineerPeople outside of your organization approaching employees present a threat to your most critical information. Beyond Virus ProtectionSecurity management helps SMBs deal with increasing threats to their networks. Security in Midsized FirmsMore organizations are becoming aware of security concerns and tactics. Biometric Security UpdateCombining biometric technologies with network security can help protect your information assets. StorageStorage SolutionsThe business case for storage-area networks is even more compelling than the technology itself. Getting the Most out of Data StorageSet up your network so that you stop wasting time, storage capacity, and money. Serious StorageStorage networking has never been easier, or more important, for small and medium-sized businesses. WirelessTop Public Wi-Fi Hotspots WorldwideThe top five cities worldwide in terms of the number of hotspots offered , plus tips for going wireless on the road. Getting the Most from RFIDRFID may be the answer if you need to track assets, but you need a clear plan to implement it successfully. Seven Steps to Wireless AccessA wireless LAN can enable employees to do their jobs more quickly and efficiently. Learn how to bring a wireless network into your business. Integrated Wired and Wireless: The Best of Both WorldsBy integrating wireless with wired networking, you can improve employee productivity, lower costs, and simplify network management. Addressing Wireless SecurityMore mobility and wireless applications require increased vigilance. The Wireless AdvantageInnovators use wireless networking to improve processes and create competitive advantages. Securing Wireless NetworksYou might not be able to see your wireless network, but securing it should be a top priority. Three Companies Win with WirelessWireless networks can help you gain a competitive edge, no matter what your industry. Product SpotlightProduct Spotlight: SecurityProvide security for your growing business. Product Spotlight: Unified CommunicationsTransform your business with a new way of communicating. Product Spotlight: Storage NetworkingHigh-performance storage area networking meets business and disaster recovery goals. Product Spotlight: Business Communications SolutionsCisco Mobile Connect, Cisco Catalyst Express 500, Cisco CallManager Express, Cisco Unity Express, Cisco Unity Connection SMB Product SpotlightCisco Wide Area Application Engine and Cisco Wide Area File Services 3.0, Cisco Router and Security Device Manager SMB Product SpotlightCisco ASA 5500 Series Adaptive Security Appliance, Cisco Integrated Services Routers (Wireless), Cisco Catalyst 6504 Switch, CiscoWorks WLSE Express SMB Product SpotlightCisco Network Assistant, Cisco Clean Access, Cisco Call Manager Express with Cisco Unity Express, Cisco Integrated Services Router Security OtherFiber to the Home Heats Up in EuropeAs fiber becomes less expensive, it is poised to compete strongly with DSL and Wi-Fi mesh networks. Why Linux?The open-source operating system seems like a perfect fit for SMB budgets and resources. Cost ContainmentAdding Up the Real Costs of IT PurchasesThe purchase price of an IT asset is only a fraction of its total cost of ownership. New Companies Add Up the SavingsConsider the new arithmetic of a converged network. Who's at Your Service?Setting up support contracts requires flexibility on both sides of the negotiating table. Buying Refurbished EquipmentPurchasing used equipment can save money, if you do it wisely. Customer ServiceUnderstanding the Customer from Every AngleCisco Unified Communications solution integrates with Microsoft CRM. Winning Strategies for Customer ResponsivenessIt's easy to say you put customers first. An IP infrastructure can help you actually do it. Using Technology to Improve Call CentersAvoid customer impatience and reduce rising call-abandonment rates. Ensuring Fresh Web ContentStale Web content puts your credibility and customer loyalty at risk. Financing and Funding StrategiesAdvantages of Leasing Networking EquipmentLeases let you get the new technology you need while conserving cash and credit. Increase Your Purchasing PowerSound strategies can save you money in the purchasing process. Adding Up the Real Costs of IT PurchasesThe purchase price of an IT asset is only a fraction of its total cost of ownership. Funding StrategiesSelf-funding is the preferred method of financing for startups. Finding FundingGrowing a company often requires you to invest in new technology. Justifying Technology InvestmentsIdentify your business goals, then research which technologies will help you reach them. Human Resources and ManagementNot All in the FamilyAn outsider can help a family business thrive and grow. Here's how to find such a leader and make the transition successful. Virtual Assistants Bring Real ValueYour administrative assistant may not be in the next room, or even the next state. Need New Hires? Look OnlineOnline hiring can save you money and give you access to a skilled talent pool. Attracting Technology TalentTips for hiring and retaining staff who have the networking expertise you need. Balancing Work and FamilyTechnology can help you find time for everything. Mobile and Remote Worker StudyGiving information workers more freedom to choose where they work improves their productivity. Managing PeopleCommunication, team-building, and management style all help companies to grow successfully. Defying Logic as a LeaderWhen do you take a leap of faith? Making Success Out of FailureThe word failure might strike fear into your heart, but you can manage and even learn from it. MarketingWelcome to Web 2.0New capabilities inspire creative and useful Web applications, while empowering consumers to participate in content creation. SMBs Warm to Web-based SurveysSpeed and cost-effectiveness favor gathering feedback online. Reach Your Target with RSSRSS feeds targeted content to a receptive audience and can help build better relationships with customers. Can Podcasting Benefit Your Business?Podcasts by SMBs are expected to grow in popularity. E-mail Marketing Done RightA customer-first mind-set puts e-mail marketing beyond spam. 5 Tips for Web Site DesignMake sure the image you present through your Web site gives customers the correct first impression. Web Design: Web Sites That WorkEight strategies to establish an effective Internet presence. Make Search Engines WorkSearch engine optimization can improve your site's ranking, but beware of consultants who guarantee top rankings. Solving Marketing's MysteriesThe Web doesn't change the fundamentals of marketing, but it does make implementing them easier. MetricsTake Web Analytics Beyond the NumbersUnderstanding page tracking and visitor numbers can help you improve your Website. Business Metrics: Measuring SuccessTracking the effectiveness of technology initiatives is more important, and easier, than you think. Network PlanningWatching Over Your NetworkEvery business needs to protect data on its network. Where do you start? How do you keep your protection up-to-date? Your First Business NetworkWhy you need one and how to build it, from people who have done it. Develop a Disaster-Recovery PlanDeveloping a disaster-recovery plan now brings benefits even if calamity never comes. Integrating IT SystemsManage the integration of IT systems and staff in a merger or acquisition. Refreshing Your Desktop EquipmentMaximize depreciation and overcome obsolete technology with a refresh strategy. Operational Efficiency and ProductivityThe High Cost of Network DowntimeTaking steps can reduce downtime losses from inside and outside your company. In Search of Operational EfficiencyTechnology itself is no longer a competitive advantage. How do you get ahead? Outsourcing and Working with ResellersManaged Services Help You ThriveOut-tasking network functions let SMBs increase operational agility, reduce costs, and speed adoption of advanced technologies. Smooth Service from Resellers Keeps SMBs on TrackGet expert and reliable support, plus some camaraderie, from resellers. Going Outside for IT ExpertiseResellers and managed services providers can save you time and money. Embracing Managed ServicesSMBs will help double the revenues of service providers over the next three years. Channels to SuccessChannel partners can bring helpful insight to technology deployments. Choosing Trusted AdvisorsKey issues when looking for the right technology partner. Help for Technology DecisionsSolution providers and consultants can be helpful to identify the right technology investments. Planning for GrowthNot All in the FamilyAn outsider can help a family business thrive and grow. Here's how to find such a leader and make the transition successful. Advantages of Leasing Networking EquipmentLeases let you get the new technology you need while conserving cash and credit. Seven Tips for a Successful Technology ChangeMany businesses change or upgrade technology to stay competitive and better serve customers. But the prospect of such a shift can be daunting. Setting Your Sites on ExpansionLocation, infrastructure, and culture help make second locations successful. Growth Tops List of CEO ConcernsCEOs of SMBs identify their top five concerns for 2006. Best Places in Europe to Do BusinessEuropean executives pick their 10 favorite cities; easy access to markets is the most important factor. Regulatory ComplianceCombining Security and Regulatory ComplianceUsing best practices for network security sets a course to time savings, asset protection, and sales to big customers. The Compliance DecadeComplying with government regulations can increase business opportunities and improve security. TrainingTechnology Aids TrainingE-learning brings SMBs convenience, consistency, and cost savings. TrendsRegional and DemographicBrazil 's Technology TempoSMBs in Brazil take advantage of financing, lower prices, and government initiatives to increase their use of information technology. Great Expectations for RussiaSMBs in Russia are beginning to adopt technology that will energize their companies. China: Land of ContrastsWith a nod to the old ways, small companies thrive, relying on grit, technology, and intelligent innovation. Small Businesses Grow in Latin AmericaSmall businesses are thriving. So is the area's optimism and use of technology. India's Big PlansWith demand driving expansion, small businesses in look toward technology for answers. Best Places in Europe to Do BusinessEuropean executives pick their 10 favorite cities; easy access to markets is the most important factor. Hispanic-Owned Businesses Show Fast GrowthTechnology can play a role in helping businesses grow. Contributing to the CommunitySmall-business owners make supporting their communities a priority. Regions of OpportunityIn Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, the seeds of strong economies take root with help from technology. Technology TrendsWelcome to Web 2.0New capabilities inspire creative and useful Web applications, while empowering consumers to participate in content creation. Home Businesses: A Growing Technology MarketThe technical sophistication of home-based businesses varies, but technology has proven a productivity enhancer. InterviewsGuy Ballard: Director of Technology, Niles Township High Schools (Skokie, Illinois) Michael L. Barrera: President and CEO, U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Ray Boggs: Vice President of SMB and Home Office Research, IDC John T. Chambers: President and CEO, Cisco Systems Marsha Firestone, Ph.D.: Founder and President, Women Presidents' Organization Charles Giancarlo: Chief Development Officer, Cisco Systems, and President, Cisco-Linksys Dr. Laura Hartman, J.D.: Professor of Business Ethics, DePaul University Janice Bryant Howroyd: Founder, Chairman, and CEO, ACT-1 Yury Kantarovskiy: Chairman of the Board, Step Logic Fred Loya: Founder and Chairman, Fred Loya Insurance Harriet Michel: President, National Minority Supplier Development Council Craig Newmark: Craigslist.org Jay Rollins: Vice President of IT, Churchill Downs, Inc. Ian Smith: CIO, New York City Economic Development Corp. Eileen Tichane: CEO, PowerPrint-Colorways |
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