Problem solve

Problem solve

Get help with specific problems with your technologies, process and projects.

• How can manufacturers improve field service operations?

  Equipment providers and distributors are shifting their focus to improving field service. What are some best practices and technologies that can boost customer engagement and increase sales? Continue Reading

• Customer data integration needs strategy to derive meaning

  Your approach to customer data integration needs to be guided by another strategy to determine which information is relevant. Continue Reading

• Bringing HR and finance together

  HR and finance information has traditionally been siloed, but organizations are finding that to be competitive, they have to break down the long-standing barriers between the two departments. Continue Reading

• Using predictive analytics methods to answer business questions

  Need to know where to put your next store? Or whether or not a promotional campaign will work? Predictive analytics methods may be the answer. Continue Reading

• Four steps to consolidate disparate core financial systems

  Many large companies have more than one core financial system, which can inhibit data visibility. Learn how and when to consolidate. Continue Reading

• Finding and fixing Office 2013 installation problems

  Desktop administrators can streamline Office deployments by understanding fixes to important installation problems.Continue Reading

• For missing GPO settings, check the Winlogon component

  If a Windows system isn't applying certain Group Policy settings, you may need to check Winlogon and common client-side extensions.Continue Reading

• Breaking down VMware GPU virtualization options: Soft 3D, vSGA and vDGA

  VMware GPU virtualization options Soft 3D, vSGA and vDGA have different uses and benefits, but they all help companies reap performance rewards.Continue Reading

• Five Windows Sysinternals utilities can aid in desktop troubleshooting

  There are many free tools in the Windows Sysinternals suite, but some might help admins more than others for viewing data and managing desktops.Continue Reading

• Five Windows Sysinternals utilities can aid in desktop troubleshooting

  There are many free tools in the Windows Sysinternals suite, but some might help admins more than others for viewing data and managing desktops.Continue Reading

• For technology change management, engage employees early and often

  A communication consultant shares proven tips for ensuring ERP project success.Continue Reading

• What's the difference between SAP ABAP and SAP Basis?

  Confused by the difference between SAP ABAP and SAP Basis? Developer Ethan Jewett explains how to tell them apart.Continue Reading

• Why remote connectivity problems happen and how to fix them

  Remote connectivity problems such as latency and bouncing have easy fixes that just take careful planning when you're setting up your VDI deployment.Continue Reading

• App delivery techniques: Virtualization and Web-based apps

  Web-based apps and mobile desktop virtualization are gaining traction as valid mobile app delivery techniques, but each option has specific use cases.Continue Reading

• Attach documents to an SAP object without having to use SAP DMS

  With SAP Services for Object, users can attach information to an SAP object without using the SAP Document Management System, writes Jawad Akhtar.Continue Reading

• How do media servers differ from media gateways?

  Expert Carrie Higbie explains how media servers differ from media gateways and how media servers are useful in video and voice environments.Continue Reading

• Making thin client performance priority No. 1

  Thin client performance is the key to a successful endpoint because it's the issue that most affects your end users.Continue Reading

• How does a volts direct current signal relate to telecom?

  Expert Matt Brunk explains how a volts direct current signal is used in telecommunications.Continue Reading

• Before you clone HDD to SSD, know the benefits and danger to data

  Which type of drive is better: hard disk drive or solid-state drive? HDD to SSD cloning can ease data access, but SSDs aren't without risks to data.Continue Reading

• What is the difference between H.248 and H.323 protocols?

  H.248 and H.323 are protocols associated with VoIP. IP telephony expert Jon Arnold explains the difference between the two in this expert response.Continue Reading

• Updates of cloud-based applications not as automatic as they may seem

  According to experts, some of the onus still falls on users to update cloud-based applications, despite vendor promises of automatic upgrades.Continue Reading

• Three important VDI application deployment considerations

  Consider app compatibility and the frequency of updates when you choose VDI application deployment methods. Oh, and don't forget cost.Continue Reading

• Quick fixes for the most common post go-live SAP error messages

  There are a number of SAP error messages that can occur post ERP go-live, writes Jawad Akhtar. Here's how to knock them out.Continue Reading

• Locking down Internet Explorer settings with Group Policy in IE 11

  New Internet Explorer settings can tighten enterprise security, but only if Group Policy is properly enabled in IE 11 and you have Windows 8.Continue Reading

• Budgeting process case studies demonstrate how to keep it simple

  Barry Wilderman analyzes two budgeting case studies and breaks down their differences and similarities.Continue Reading

• Use SAP Backflush functionality to automate production processes

  Companies save themselves headaches by automating production processes using SAP Backflush and Automatic Goods Receipt functions, writes Jawad Akhtar.Continue Reading

• Budgeting software vs. Excel: Which one meets your organization's needs?

  To make your decision easier, read expert Barry Wilderman's explanation of the pros and cons of each, plus cloud considerations.Continue Reading

• How to handle peripherals support on virtual desktops

  Peripherals support can be especially tricky on virtual desktops because you often need redirection technology to make the devices work.Continue Reading

• Can I plug a USB drive into a phone with a micro-USB connector?

  This week, our expert answers a question on how to connect a phone or tablet to a USB drive with a micro-USB connector.Continue Reading

• A sampler of VDI-friendly Windows PowerShell scripts

  You can automate desktop provisioning, monitoring and more in a VDI environment, so check out these handy Windows PowerShell scripts for VDI admins.Continue Reading

• What is a UC client?

  What do vendors mean when they refer to a UC client? Learn what a UC client is and how it is used.Continue Reading

• How to configure SharePoint for mobile devices

  As more organizations support bring-your-own-device initiatives, end users increasingly expect access to SharePoint resources from mobile devices.Continue Reading

• Which CPU settings deliver optimal VMware Workstation 9 performance?

  Newer processors pack more punch, but administrators still need to tailor CPU allocation for a smoother Workstation 9 experience.Continue Reading

• Where virtual desktops need certificate management

  Virtual desktops don't always trust certain security certificates, especially when applications are accessed through the Web.Continue Reading

• Learn how to install Office 2013 with Group Policies or SCCM

  To successfully deploy Office 2013 across a network, you'll need Group Policies or tools such as Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager.Continue Reading

• Limiting mobile bandwidth consumption to improve network performance

  When a lot of devices access your network, the network slows down. Adding WAPs and upgrading the LAN can help you limit bandwidth consumption.Continue Reading

• Which budget technique is right for your organization?

  Budgeting is not one size fits all. The size of your organization may determine which technique fit bests. Try these techniques on for size.Continue Reading

• How business process redesign is affecting ERP

  In this expert tip, learn how business process redesign fits into the ERP implementation process and the role that business process management plays.Continue Reading

• Best practices for ERP and WMS integration

  In this expert tip, learn how to successfully integrate a warehouse management system with an ERP system.Continue Reading

• Click-to-Run and MSI provide Office 2013 installation options

  The Microsoft Installer has competition for Office 2013 installation. See how Office Click-to-Run allows Office 2013 to run without a full download.Continue Reading

• Cut inspection costs with the SAP QM module's DMR functionality

  Save time and money inspecting the quality of procured or produced materials with the SAP Dynamic Modification Rule (DMR), writes expert Jawad Akhtar.Continue Reading

• What are the advantages of SIP trunks versus analog circuits?

  SIP trunking is not perfect, but it has more options and features compared to what traditional phone companies offer, says UC expert Matt Brunk.Continue Reading

• How cloud storage and collaboration are changing email communications

  Email communications aren't dead, but social networking, cloud storage and collaboration tools have made it easier for employees to work together.Continue Reading

• Taking advantage of VM snapshots in a virtual desktop environment

  With VM snapshots, you can make one desktop VM into many. Just watch out for performance when snapshotting in a virtual desktop environment.Continue Reading

• Pros and cons of mobile device management software

  There are some security gaps that MDM can't fill, but mobile device management software is still a must for many companies.Continue Reading

• Microsoft's revised Resource Kit can ease Office 2013 deployment

  Microsoft's free Office 2013 Resource Kit provides documentation for Office 2013 deployment, as well as for management after an Office deployment.Continue Reading

• Using Active Directory activation and other new Office 2013 tools

  Among the new Office 2013 tools for IT admins are a method for volume activation, administrative template files and files for custom installations.Continue Reading

• Join the SCN SapphireNow community

  Learn more about the the SCN SapphireNow community.Continue Reading

• Making Citrix XenDesktop play nice with a VMware hypervisor

  You can run XenDesktop on a VMware hypervisor, but what does that entail? Learn how clustering and vCenter Server work in a mixed VDI environment.Continue Reading

• What is a call park phone feature and how does it work?

  UC expert, Matt Brunk, explains a call park phone feature, how it works and how it compares to a visual call park feature in this expert response.Continue Reading

• Why you need VDI training and how to go about it

  VDI requires new hardware and software, so make sure you get some VDI training and certifications under your belt before you deploy virtual desktops.Continue Reading

• Best practices for allocating resources to virtual desktops

  It's important to do a good job allocating resources to virtual desktops. Make sure you understand your VM system and allocate based on your users.Continue Reading

• What exactly is included in the Microsoft VDA license cost?

  The Virtual Desktop Access license lets users remotely access Windows from more types of devices, but it costs more than Software Assurance.Continue Reading

• VMware View components: What you need and how they work

  To use VMware View for VDI, you need a few different View components, including the View Agent, vCenter Server and View Connection Server.Continue Reading

• Zero client vs. thin client computing: Why zero clients are better

  Zero clients and thin clients both offer virtual desktop access, but they aren't the same when it comes to performance and scalability.Continue Reading

• Breaking down five desktop delivery methods

  There are a lot of ways to accomplish desktop delivery these days, and they all come in shorthand: VDI, SBC, DaaS and more.Continue Reading

• What are the different types of private branch exchange systems?

  The types of PBX systems available shifted after the advent of Internet Protocol, according to IP telephony expert Jon Arnold.Continue Reading

• Are there advantages to using the public switched telephone network?

  You may have to sacrifice some advantages of the public switched telephone network if you switch to VoIP, says telephony expert Jon Arnold.Continue Reading

• How can I easily switch between an external webcam and a built-in one?

  Video expert Steve Campbell answers a question about built-in and external webcams. Certain factors affect the quality of your experience, he says.Continue Reading

• Choosing thin client devices: What to look for

  On the lookout for thin client devices? Don't forget to consider application compatibility, protocol support, features and cost.Continue Reading

• Four virtual disk formats every VDI admin needs to know

  VDI admins need to understand the underlying disk image files that store data in their environments. Learn about the four most common formats.Continue Reading

• When does it make sense to employ an external webcam?

  The decision of whether to use an external webcam depends on what you intend to use video conferencing for, says video expert Steve Campbell.Continue Reading

• User profile management tools: 16 options to consider

  There are tons of user profile management tools out there. Check out these options to learn what they offer -- and which ones are free.Continue Reading

• How to install Microsoft RDS in Windows Server 2012

  When you're ready to install Microsoft RDS, keep an eye on each component. Some are mandatory in Windows Server 2012 and others aren't.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Office 2013 crackable, so look to Office password recovery

  Microsoft Office 2013 may have improved protection, but third-party tools have already cracked passwords. See how to use Office password recovery.Continue Reading

• GPS technology steers towards the manufacturing supply chain

  Rather than replacing other AIDC technologies, GPS complements bar code and RFID technology and is typically deployed for logistics tracking.Continue Reading

• Top five mobile application vulnerabilities

  Devices are often blamed for insecurities, but mobile app vulnerabilities are insidious. Make sure employees use common sense when they download apps.Continue Reading

• Know the SCOR model to build strong supply chain metrics

  By following the SCOR model, manufacturers can put supply chain metrics in place to ensure enterprise-wide success.Continue Reading

• How does VoIP performance differ over LAN, WAN and other networks?

  Environment affects VoIP performance, so it's important to consider how VoIP best fits in your environment is important, our UC strategies expert explains.Continue Reading

• Configuring Remote Desktop Services roles for high availability

  Although Windows Server 2012 RDS comes with new high availability capabilities, configuring Remote Desktop Services HA is no simple task.Continue Reading

• What is the SVC Codec and how is it used?

  The SVC codec is an extension to the H.264 standard for video encoding used by many equipment manufacturers, explains our video conferencing expert.Continue Reading

• Application virtualization Q&A: Streaming and remote app delivery

  Application virtualization can simplify upgrading and management. Just remember, streaming and remote apps are two different things.Continue Reading

• Best practices for developing mobile cloud apps revealed

  Expert Bill Claybrook explains the right way to go about creating mobile cloud applications.Continue Reading

• Turn to Microsoft RemoteApp Programs when VDI and RDS just won't do

  VDI and RDS aren't always the best fit for remote app delivery. For a lightweight approach, try Microsoft RemoteApp Programs in Windows Server 2012.Continue Reading

• VDI backup strategies: Copying, storing and securing virtual desktops

  If you’re not backing up your virtual desktops, here are a few VDI backup strategies that might make you re-think that decision.Continue Reading

• VirtualBox VM recovery: Two ways to salvage your data

  If you have to recover a VirtualBox VM, you're in for a grand old time. Keep these tricks in mind to help get your data back.Continue Reading

• Microsoft RemoteFX requirements in Windows Server 2012

  There are new hardware requirements for using RemoteFX in Windows Server 2012, but it's hard to find where to configure certain settings.Continue Reading

• Desktop virtualization comparison: VDI vs. Remote Desktop Services

  For desktop virtualization, you have a choice between the paths of VDI and Remote Desktop Services. Robert Frost took the road less travelled, but you don't have to choose just one.Continue Reading

• Manufacturing PLM tools beginner’s tutorial

  In this guide, learn the basics of PLM tools, including software selection, implementation, and cloud computing options.Continue Reading

• How an acceptable use policy and app control can improve BYOD success

  Organizations that adopt BYOD should have an acceptable use policy to help with security and app control. When users know expectations and consequences, BYOD gets easier for IT.Continue Reading

• Business email security and the risks of personal Gmail forwarding

  Business email security might not be on employees’ minds when they forward corporate mail to more user-friendly Gmail accounts, so IT should take steps to protect corporate data.Continue Reading

• Microsoft RemoteFX USB redirection: Four key considerations

  With Microsoft RemoteFX USB redirection, you can have full native USB support for virtual desktops, despite some device limitations.Continue Reading

• Tips for running PowerShell against remote Windows 7 desktops

  Setting up PowerShell to manage remote Windows 7 desktops can be tricky. These tips help you properly configure PowerShell and use it for remote desktop troubleshooting.Continue Reading

• Configuration profiles: An iPad administrator's best friend

  The influx of iPads and other mobile devices into the enterprise may worry IT administrators, but configuration profiles allow for centralized management of iOS devices.Continue Reading

• Five helpful commands for managing Remote Desktop Services

  In Windows Server 8, server management will be command-line oriented. Prepare for the shift by learning some commands for managing Remote Desktop Services.Continue Reading

• Tablet licensing rules with Microsoft Office

  As tablets make their way into the enterprise, it might be time to brush up on licensing rules for mobilizing Microsoft Office. We also provide some solutions for reducing costs.Continue Reading

• Solutions to common remote desktop printing problems

  Microsoft Easy Print improved remote desktop printing in Windows Server 2008 R2, but network admins still struggle with printer redirection. Use these tips to fix common problems.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Windows 7 Task Manager troubleshooting tips

  Here are some troubleshooting tips for Microsoft Windows 7's improved Task Manager -- from identifying processes and services to using the Resource Monitor.Continue Reading

• Why using a bare metal client hypervisor on a Mac makes no sense

  Apple supports running Mac OS X 10.7 Lion in a client hypervisor VM on Mac hardware, but is there any value in virtualizing the Mac OS with Type-1 products such as XenClient?Continue Reading

• More tools for converting PCs to thin clients

  You don't need to replace all your PCs to move to virtual desktops. Here are six non-Windows tools to help you convert old hardware to thin clients for desktop virtualization.Continue Reading

• Application security best practices help meet compliance objectives

  Aligning application security best practices and compliance objectives helps companies comply with industry regulations and standards -- and may help reduce costs in the process.Continue Reading

• Does a mobile VDI platform make sense for your users?

  Mobile VDI isn't always a good fit. Ask these five questions to determine whether a mobile VDI platform makes sense for your users.Continue Reading

• Licensing options for accessing Microsoft Office remotely

  There are plenty of choices for licensing virtual applications, but understanding when to use which ones can be a challenge.Continue Reading

• Resetting passwords in the enterprise without the help desk

  While there are several self-service password-reset options on the market, many organizations are hesitant to implement them -- even though the payoffs are significant.Continue Reading

• Using AppLocker to lock down Remote Desktop Services apps

  The time it takes to get AppLocker fully functional negates its benefits, but with Remote Desktop Services, the Windows 7 application security tool is a no-brainer.Continue Reading

• Java administration in SAP: Three tips for Basis administrators

  Sooner or later, Basis administrators will have to get used to Java administration in SAP. Read tips for finding information on a Java instance and monitoring memory utilization.Continue Reading

• The truth about five nines availability in unified communications networks

  Five nines availability is attainable with traditional telecommunications networks, but is it attainable with a unified communications network? This tip explains how to calculate availability and how it relates to unified communications software and...Continue Reading

• Controlling desktops with AppLocker and software restriction policies

  Many IT admins rely on User Account Control, but AppLocker or software restriction policies can also prevent unauthorized installation of desktop apps.Continue Reading

• Where does Windows store its temporary files?

  The temporary files generated by Windows can pile up and become a security hazard. Learn how to track them down and tidy up your systems.Continue Reading

• The value of toll bypass in the enterprise

  IP telephony expert Jon Arnold explains the value of toll bypass in an IP telephony setup, detailing why enterprises should consider it as an option while tempering cost-savings expectations.Continue Reading