Memorial Day Linkfest 2007I've got a look at top VAR technologies, Second Life and math software, Al Gore's office, and more, in today's Memorial Day weekend Linkfest: This year's VARBusiness 500 arrives on June 11, but we've already posted a look at the fastest growing technology specialties among the top solution providers. Storage hardware solutions lead the way, followed by VoIP and Security. What's storage's secret? "Storage sales often lead to backup sales, which often lead to disaster recovery and security sales." And speaking of growing technologies, Robert Faletra says to keep an eye on unified communications: "if you are an infrastructure VAR, this burgeoning market fits right into your expertise because it requires a top-notch network. But it's more than infrastructure and it comes with better margins because, in order to do it right, you have to take a consultative approach to the sale." The CRN Test Center puts together a Windows-less office suite, using Linux and open source applications, but concludes: "Microsoft has a lot to worry about down the road, but in 2007, Linux is still lacking the driver support, ease of use and interoperability with mainstream, legacy software to make office migration pain-free." What can we learn from the success of 'Web 2.0' business tools like Near-Time and Skype? Heather Clancy says we can see the future of channel services: "Your role will be so much less about this product or that one and more about how you assemble the right tools for clients to get their jobs done. More and more, those tools will exist somewhere out there on the Web, where they will be both completely within your control and completely out of your control. How you respond will define you." A week ago, VARBusiness' Lawrence Walsh went to Second Life, met with solution providers, and returned with this report: "I'm more convinced than ever that there's something to this online playground and, over time, the channel will learn how to leverage it for business purposes. I expect more vendors will follow the lead of these early adopters, and innovative and pioneering solution providers will be close behind." Our top five articles (in terms of traffic) in May: 2007 Channel Champions The busiest forum threads this month: Dell To Diverge From Direct Sales With Major Channel, Retail Push It's Mathy, But It Could Be Mathier... At Dr. Dobbs, they're excited about the new Speaking of geeky, here's a look inside Al Gore's office. Nice monitor setup! And my wife would love the frog. But Al, let's straighten it up a bit! And finally, don't forget the reason Americans get the day off on Monday. last year I linked to the site of the American Battle Monuments commission, who maintain America's 24 overseas military cemeteries. Take a look. Then make it to a parade, and thank a vet. Have a great weekend! Posted by Joe Caponi at 04:09 PM, May 25, 2007 This is a public forum. United Business Media and its affiliates are not responsible for and do not control what is posted herein. United Business Media makes no warranties or guarantees concerning any advice dispensed by its staff members or readers. Community standards in this comment area do not permit hate language, excessive profanity, or other patently offensive language. Please be aware that all information posted to this comment area becomes the property of United Business Media LLC and may be edited and republished in print or electronic format as outlined in United Business Media's Terms of Service. Important Note: This comment area is NOT intended for commercial messages or solicitations of business. |
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