IT applications, infrastructure and operations
IT infrastructure and operations management excellence has become essential to maintain quality control over technology-related policies, processes and equipment. Read news and tips to assist modern IT operations and infrastructure management, including strategies to ensure the proper flow of data throughout enterprise applications and other information systems.
Top Stories
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Tip
17 Apr 2025
How quantum computing can improve supply chains
Quantum's ability to model and analyze complex scenarios is tailor-made for tasks like route optimization and inventory management. Apps exist, but wide availability is years away. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Apr 2025
The potential business opportunities in quantum computing
Optimization use cases in areas like supply chain, resource allocation, routing and production scheduling are leading the near-term commercial application of quantum computing. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Apr 2025
The potential business opportunities in quantum computing
Optimization use cases in areas like supply chain, resource allocation, routing and production scheduling are leading the near-term commercial application of quantum computing. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Apr 2025
A primer on quantum computing storage and memory
Quantum storage and memory differ significantly from the technologies in today's computers. The implications for compute power and storage capacity could someday be extraordinary. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Apr 2025
What is a data type?
In software programming, a data type refers to the type of value a variable has and what type of mathematical, relational or logical operations can be applied on it without causing an error. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Apr 2025
The pros and cons of quantum networking
Quantum networking promises secure, high-speed communication -- someday. There are huge practical challenges, including fragility, cost and integration with traditional networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Apr 2025
What is a quantum logic gate?
A quantum logic gate is a basic quantum device that operates on a small number of quantum bits or qubits. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Apr 2025
Quantum AI: Explaining how it will impact the business world
Quantum computers could boost AI with faster training on big data and better problem-solving abilities. But combining the two in practical business applications could take years. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Apr 2025
What is a project charter? Definition and examples
A project charter is a formal short document stating that a project exists and providing project managers with written authority to begin work. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Apr 2025
What is Lean management?
Lean management is an approach to managing an organization that supports the concept of continuous improvement, a long-term approach to work that systematically seeks to achieve small, incremental changes in processes to improve efficiency and quality. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Apr 2025
What is e-business?
E-business (electronic business) is the conduct of online business processes on the web, internet, extranet or a combination thereof. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Apr 2025
What is troubleshooting and why is it important?
Troubleshooting is a systematic approach to problem-solving often used to find and correct issues with complex machines, electronics, computers and software systems. Continue Reading
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News
11 Apr 2025
DARPA quantum computing benchmark test seeks 'utility scale'
DARPA aims to evaluate up to 20 vendors -- from startups to large tech companies -- using a benchmarking framework that spans multiple types of quantum computing. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Apr 2025
What is a chief technology officer (CTO)?
A chief technology officer (CTO) is a high-level executive who is responsible for overseeing an organization's strategic use of IT. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Apr 2025
What are soft skills?
Soft skills are personal attributes that support situational awareness and enhance an individual's ability to get a job done. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Apr 2025
What is a remote desktop and how does it work?
A remote desktop is a program or an operating system feature that allows a user to connect to a computer in another location, see that computer's desktop and interact with it as if it were local. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Apr 2025
What is total cost of ownership (TCO)?
Total cost of ownership (TCO) is an estimation of the expenses associated with purchasing, deploying, managing, using and retiring IT assets, such as a product or piece of equipment. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Apr 2025
What is outsourcing?
Outsourcing is a business practice in which a company hires a third party to perform tasks, handle operations or provide services for the company. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Apr 2025
Quantum-resistant algorithms: Why they matter
Quantum-resistant algorithms play a crucial role in post-quantum cryptography, which protects against threats on digital signatures and current encryption methods. Continue Reading
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Opinion
08 Apr 2025
The state of quantum computing: What businesses need to know
Quantum computing's potential and steady advancement make the technology worth investigating, but adopters still need to deal with conflicting claims and uncertain market timing. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Apr 2025
What is sustainability risk management (SRM)?
Sustainability risk management (SRM) is a business strategy that aligns profit goals with a company's environmental, social and governance (ESG) policies. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Apr 2025
What is quantum as a service? Definition and top providers
Quantum as a service (QaaS), or quantum computing as a service, is a cloud-based way for organizations to access quantum computing technologies and capabilities more affordably through a third-party provider. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Apr 2025
Quantum computing in finance: Key use cases
The financial services industry could soon use quantum for portfolio management, fraud detection and other complex processes. But the list of hurdles to overcome is long. Continue Reading
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News
03 Apr 2025
Trump aims to consolidate federal IT contracts
Moving billions of dollars' worth of contracts into the General Services Administration could create workload challenges as the federal agency navigates staffing cuts. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Apr 2025
Low code vs. BPM: Differences and similarities
Low-code development and business process management help digitize and optimize business operations. Learn how each works and how together they enable digital transformation. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Apr 2025
What is a northbound interface/southbound interface?
A northbound interface (NBI) is an application programming interface (API) or protocol that allows a lower-level network component to communicate with a higher-level or more central component; conversely, a southbound interface (SBI) allows a higher-level component to send commands to lower-level network components. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Apr 2025
Top benefits and advantages of quantum computing
While 'quantum advantage' is still a few years away, the technology has clear benefits for certain classes of computation problems. Here are four important types named by experts. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Apr 2025
What is a conductor?
A conductor, or electrical conductor, is a substance or material that allows electricity to flow through it. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Mar 2025
How quantum cybersecurity changes the way you protect data
Here's a full guide to the threats quantum computers pose to today's encryption algorithms -- and how to prepare now to become "crypto-agile" enough to stay ahead of bad actors. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Mar 2025
What is Nvidia?
Nvidia Corporation is a technology company known for designing and manufacturing graphics processing units (GPUs). Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Mar 2025
The 6 different types of quantum computing technology
Technology providers offer several paths to the promised land of quantum advantage, but customers must navigate the engineering tradeoffs among the varied types of qubits. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Mar 2025
Follow Patch Tuesday best practices for optimal results
Microsoft releases most security updates on Patch Tuesday, a day that brings anxiety to many sys admins. Learn how to develop a strategy to test and deploy these fixes. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Mar 2025
The future of quantum computing: Near- and long-term outlook
Companies are already solving optimization problems, using quantum to improve traditional programs and planning for post-quantum cryptography. But big technical challenges remain. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Mar 2025
5 steps to design an effective AI pilot project
Getting employee feedback on new technology can help mitigate risks before deployment. Learn key steps to follow when implementing an AI pilot project. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Mar 2025
8 popular infrastructure-as-code (IaC) tools to consider
Learn how these infrastructure-as-code tools can help streamline application development and deployment by reducing many of the headaches associated with manual processes. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Mar 2025
What is digital health (digital healthcare)?
Digital health, also known as digital healthcare, is the use of digital technologies in healthcare. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Mar 2025
What is IT operations (IT ops)?
The term IT operations (IT ops) describes the many processes and services an IT department manages and maintains within an organization. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Mar 2025
What is Microsoft Outlook?
Microsoft Outlook is an email, contacts and calendar program from Microsoft. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Mar 2025
How can quantum computers be used in healthcare?
Commercial products are few, and wide availability is probably a few years away, but lab research and prototypes show progress in drug design, medical imaging and genetic modeling. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Mar 2025
When will quantum computing be available? It depends
Quantum computing availability timelines depend on who is measuring and how they interpret 'availability.' Varied definitions make for a complex market. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Mar 2025
The Microsoft patch management guide for admins
Microsoft recently added WSUS to its deprecation list. Now that the battle-tested patch management tool's days are numbered, what are the alternatives from the company? Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Mar 2025
Learn how the Windows Server 2025 editions differ
See what's been gained -- and lost -- in Microsoft's latest version of its server OS before you plan a migration from your existing workloads. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Mar 2025
What is product as a service?
Product as a service (PaaS) is the concept of selling the services and outcomes a product can provide rather than the product itself. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Mar 2025
Quantum computer vs. supercomputer: Key differences
Quantum computers could someday outperform supercomputers by orders of magnitude. Compare speeds, capabilities and specialties, and get a look into a future that combines the two. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Mar 2025
What is taxonomy in computing?
Taxonomy is the science of classification according to a predetermined system, with the resulting catalog used to provide a conceptual framework for discussion, analysis or information retrieval. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Mar 2025
What is RAID (redundant array of independent disks)?
RAID (redundant array of independent disks) is a way of storing the same data in different places on multiple hard disks or solid-state drives (SSDs) to protect data in the case of a drive failure. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Mar 2025
What is ICT (information and communications technology)?
ICT (information and communications technology) is the infrastructure and components that enable modern computing. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Mar 2025
What is Alphabet Inc.?
Alphabet Incorporated (also known as Alphabet Inc. or simply Alphabet) is a conglomerate of numerous companies, including the search engine giant Google. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Mar 2025
What is a smart city?
A smart city is a municipality that uses information and communication technology to increase operational efficiency, share information with the public and improve the quality of government services and citizen welfare. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
03 Mar 2025
How to set up Docker containers on Windows Server
Docker started on the Linux OS, but Windows containers based on this technology can bring numerous benefits to the enterprise. Here's how to get started. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Mar 2025
What is a word in computing architecture?
In computing architecture, a word is a fixed unit of data containing a specific number of bits that can be addressed and moved between storage and the computer processor. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Feb 2025
What is quantum in physics and computing?
A quantum, the singular form of quanta, is the smallest discrete unit of any physical entity. For example, a quantum of light is a photon, and a quantum of electricity is an electron. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Feb 2025
What is Microsoft?
Microsoft is the world's largest vendor of computer software and a leading provider of cloud computing services, video games, computer and gaming hardware, search and other online services. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Feb 2025
What is a batch file?
A batch file is a script file that stores commands to be executed in a serial order. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Feb 2025
What is a checksum?
A checksum is a value that represents the number of bits in a transmission message. IT professionals use it to detect high-level errors within data transmissions. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Feb 2025
What is a supercomputer?
A supercomputer is a highly advanced computer that performs at or near the highest operational rate for computers. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Feb 2025
What is a motherboard?
A motherboard is the main printed circuit board (PCB) in a computer. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Feb 2025
What is cognitive automation?
Cognitive automation describes diverse ways of combining artificial intelligence (AI) and process automation capabilities to improve business outcomes. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Feb 2025
What is an IT project manager?
An IT project manager is a professional charged with overseeing the process of planning, executing and delegating responsibilities around an organization's information technology (IT) pursuits and goals. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Feb 2025
What is a cyberthreat hunter (cybersecurity threat analyst)?
A cyberthreat hunter, also called a cybersecurity threat analyst, proactively identifies security incidents that might go undetected using automated security tools such as malware detectors and firewalls. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Feb 2025
How to properly implement Exchange Extended Protection
This security feature can better protect Exchange Server deployments to prevent a wide range of attacks and safeguard sensitive data transmitted over the network. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Feb 2025
8 generative AI challenges that businesses should consider
IT managers planning to adopt GenAI can expect to encounter some hurdles, including cost optimization, workforce effects, cybersecurity concerns and energy use. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jan 2025
10 top generative AI benefits for business
The advantages of using generative AI cover plenty of ground, with improving customer experience, reducing costs and automating code creation among the key drivers. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Jan 2025
What is nearshore outsourcing and how does it work?
Nearshore outsourcing is the practice of getting work done or services performed by people in neighboring countries rather than an organization's own country. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Jan 2025
What is the Semantic Web? Definition, history and timeline
The Semantic Web is a vision for linking data across webpages, applications and files. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Jan 2025
What are knowledge-based systems (KBSes)?
Knowledge-based systems (KBSes) are computer programs that use a centralized repository of data known as a knowledge base to provide problem-solving. Continue Reading
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News
24 Jan 2025
Gartner tech spending forecast tempered by price hikes
The global IT market is projected to grow 9.8% in 2025, but an expected increase in the prices of vendor products and services will eat into CIOs' tech budgets. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Jan 2025
What is CAD (computer-aided design)?
CAD (computer-aided design) is the use of computer-based software to aid in design processes by creating simulations of real-world objects. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Jan 2025
12 top business process management tools for 2025
BPM platforms are becoming a business transformation engine as vendors infuse their tools with powerful AI and automation capabilities. Read our review of top BPM products. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Jan 2025
Top 9 smart contract platforms to consider in 2025
Platform speed, scalability, security and smart contract development support vary widely. Here's how to match features to your needs plus the lowdown on the major players. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Jan 2025
What are metered services and how do they work?
Metered services (also called pay-per-use and consumption-based pricing) are any type of payment structure in which a customer has access to potentially unlimited resources but only pays for what they use. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Jan 2025
10 trends shaping the future of BPM in 2025
Business process management is evolving rapidly as advanced automation, software integration, process simulation and generative AI redefine the way business processes are managed. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Jan 2025
What is RFI (request for information)?
A request for information (RFI) is a formal process for gathering information from potential suppliers of a good or service. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Jan 2025
Top 12 business process management certifications for 2025
These certifications and courses can help you gain the specialized knowledge you need to bolster your credentials and marketability as a BPM professional. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Jan 2025
15 edge computing trends to watch in 2025 and beyond
Organizations increasingly recognize the importance of edge computing in shaping business outcomes. Discover the latest insights on spending, device capabilities and infrastructure updates. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Jan 2025
Intel's rise and fall: A timeline of what went wrong
Intel's dramatic decline highlights its struggle to compete in a rapidly evolving tech landscape, as its market value lags giants such as Nvidia and AMD. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Jan 2025
Top 8 blockchain platforms to consider in 2025
Get the lowdown on the major features, differentiators, strengths and weaknesses of the blockchain platforms that are getting the most buzz -- and real-world deployments. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Jan 2025
Top Web 3.0 trends and predictions for 2025 and beyond
The next-generation internet is taking longer than expected. But blockchain improvements and a favorable regulatory climate for cryptocurrency are positives for the coming year. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Jan 2025
Key technical debt reduction strategies CTOs can use
Suboptimal software fixes cost time and money as well as strain departments throughout the organization. Here's how to develop software the right way. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Jan 2025
What is a CVO (chief visionary officer)?
The CVO (chief visionary officer) is a newer C-suite title where the holder is expected to have a broad and comprehensive knowledge of all matters related to the business of the organization, as well as the vision required to steer its course into the future. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Jan 2025
Top 7 CIO challenges in 2025 and how to handle them
AI colors nearly all the top CIO concerns for 2025. When they are not deploying AI, they'll be tidying data to fuel AI projects and balancing AI against digital transformation. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Jan 2025
8 factors reshaping the role of the CIO in 2025
Bring us the money. Heading into 2025, CIOs face increasing pressure to drive revenue, savings and business value from their technology initiatives, particularly in AI. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Jan 2025
Top 5 digital transformation trends of 2025
IT leaders can expect AI to occupy the transformation driver's seat as the technology moves into production and embeds itself in enterprise workflows. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Dec 2024
What is Six Sigma and how does it work?
Six Sigma is a business methodology for quality improvement that measures how many defects there are in a current process and seeks to systematically eliminate them. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Dec 2024
Top metaverse platforms in 2025, rise of spatial computing
The metaverse is evolving, beginning with its rebranding as spatial computing and its expanding impact in the workplace. Here are 13 metaverse platforms to keep an eye on in 2025. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Dec 2024
What is synthetic data? Examples, use cases and benefits
Synthetic data is information that's artificially manufactured rather than generated by real-world events. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Dec 2024
What is 3PL (third-party logistics)?
A 3PL (third-party logistics) provider offers outsourced logistics services, which encompass anything that involves management of one or more facets of procurement and fulfillment activities. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Dec 2024
What is traveling salesman problem (TSP)?
The traveling salesman problem (TSP) is a programming optimization problem to find the shortest path that connects a given set of points. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Dec 2024
See what's new in Desired State Configuration v3
Avoid unexpected surprises, and learn how to bring consistency to your on-premises infrastructure and cloud resources with the overhauled configuration management tool. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Dec 2024
Top 29 IoT interview questions and answers for 2025
Do you or a job candidate have what it takes to meet the demands of IoT? Find out with our 29 questions and answers on planning, deploying and maintaining the internet of things. Continue Reading
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News
10 Dec 2024
December Patch Tuesday shuts down Windows zero-day
Microsoft addresses 72 vulnerabilities, including 17 rated critical. Administrators should focus on patching the Windows OS to stop a flaw that has been exploited in the wild. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Dec 2024
What is incremental innovation?
Incremental innovation is a series of small improvements or upgrades made to a company's existing products, services, processes or methods. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Dec 2024
What is a web server?
A web server is software and hardware that uses HTTP and other protocols to respond to client requests made over the World Wide Web. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Dec 2024
Diffusion of innovations theory: Definition and examples
Discover how the diffusion of innovations theory unravels the journey of ideas and tech, from bold innovators to cautious laggards, shaping adoption trends across industries today. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
05 Dec 2024
How PowerShell can automate Hyper-V deployments
This tutorial explains the basics of how to build a proper template to stand up a Hyper-V VM with a script, then go further with advanced configurations for smoother deployments. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Nov 2024
Quantum computing technology pushes for IT advantage
Tech and funding issues remain. But work on error handling, an expanding software stack and the growth of quantum ecosystems are advancing the pursuit of 'quantum advantage.' Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Nov 2024
What is obfuscation and how does it work?
Obfuscation means to make something difficult to understand. Programming code is often obfuscated to protect intellectual property or trade secrets, and to prevent an attacker from reverse engineering a proprietary software program. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Nov 2024
Microsoft Teams monitoring tips for admins
Learn how to use PowerShell to set up an automated way to check for suspicious activity in the Microsoft chat service to avoid security and compliance issues. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Nov 2024
What is a framework?
In general, a framework is a real or conceptual structure intended to serve as a support or guide for the building of something that expands the structure into something useful. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Nov 2024
What is an information system (IS)?
An information system (IS) is an interconnected set of components used to collect, store, process and transmit data and digital information. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Nov 2024
What is SAP Plant Maintenance (PM)?
SAP Plant Maintenance (PM) is a component of SAP ERP Central Component (ECC) that helps businesses support and maintain equipment and systems. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Nov 2024
What is SAP Quality Management (QM)?
SAP Quality Management (QM) is a component of SAP ERP Central Component (ECC) that helps businesses implement and run quality control (QC) processes. Continue Reading