January 5, 2009

"PRIDE"-DBEM - PHASE 2 - APPLICATION LOGICAL DB DESIGN (SPECIAL)

This is Part XXIII in our series on the "PRIDE" Methodologies for IRM. In this edition we describe the activities of Phase 2, "Application Logical Data Base Design" in the "PRIDE"-Data Base Engineering Methodology (DBEM).

The full text for this section can be obtained by clicking: HERE.

NEXT UP: Phase 3, "Enterprise Logical DB Design" of the "PRIDE"-Data Base Engineering Methodology (DBEM).

If you would like to discuss this with me in more depth, please do not hesitate to send me an e-mail.

Keep the faith!

OUR BRYCE'S LAW OF THE WEEK therefore is...

"A data element has only one logical definition, but may be represented physically in many different ways."

"MORPHING INTO THE REAL WORLD"

Friends, be sure to check out our book entitled, "MORPHING INTO THE REAL WORLD - A Handbook for Entering the Work Force" which is a survival guide for young people as they transition into adult life.

Bonnie Wooding, the President of the Toronto Chapter of the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) said, "Many of our members are just starting their careers and I will be recommending that they read this book, especially Chapter 3, Professional Development - a primer for business skills and filled with basic common sense advice that is simple, easy to follow and extraordinarily practical; and Chapter 5, Do’s and Don’ts of the Workplace, an excellent resource for those questions you are too embarrassed to ask for fear of looking foolish."

The Miami Hurricane recently reviewed it (10/22/2007) and said,

"the abundance of information the book provides is a good start for anyone about to take the first step into the real world. Though the concept of adulthood may seem intimidating, it's comforting to know that someone has at least written a guidebook for it."

Reviewer Bill Petrey praised it by saying, "Every young person entering the workplace for the first time should be given a copy of this book."

The book includes chapters to describe how a young person should organize themselves, how to adapt to the corporate culture, develop their career, and improve themselves professionally and socially. Basically, its 208 pages of good sound advice to jump start the young person into the work force. Corporate Human Resource departments will also find this book useful for setting new hires on the right track in their career. It not only reinforces the many formal rules as contained in corporate policy manuals, but also includes the subtle unwritten rules we must all observe while working with others. The book lists for $25 and can be ordered online through MBA or your local book store. Complementing the book is a one day seminar of the same name which can be purchased separately for $4,000.00 (U.S.) plus instructor travel expenses. For more information on both the book and the seminar, visit our corporate web site at: http://www.phmainstreet.com/mba/morph.htm
ISBN: 978-0-9786182-5-4

MY "PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK" IS "FINDING COMFORT IN INCOMPETENCE"

I think we're all familiar with the old saying, "Ignorance is bliss," but I seem to be running into this more frequently in a lot of small nonprofit organizations, such as youth sports, fraternal groups, homeowner associations, etc. I have had more than my fair share of experience with such groups over the years and I am always amazed at how incompetently they are run. People who get on the board of directors for nonprofit groups typically mean well, but most don't have a clue as to what is necessary to effectively run them.

Running a local nonprofit group is not exactly rocket science, but I'm amazed how many people make it overly complicated (does the expression, "Making mountains out of mole hills," mean anything to you?). Basically, you have a set of governing docs which you have to follow (which most people on the Board rarely read), you have to keep track of your membership, perform some service for them, and collect money and pay the bills. Hopefully, a rationally prepared budget is somewhere in all of this, but this is becoming as rare as having the organization's finances independently reviewed on an annual basis. But in a nutshell, that's all there is to it. Yet, time and again, I see people bumbling their way through nonprofit groups, causing more problems than they solve. So much so, that it is not uncommon for them to hire management companies to come in and run the administrative detail of the organization, for a tidy fee of course.

Nonprofit organizations are typically driven more by ego than common sense. It's sad when you see someone campaign for President more for the notoriety or power as opposed to performing anything useful. To me, this is just plain bizarre. I guess there are people who need some petty recognition, particularly if they never did anything in their professional lives.

Such organizations tend to be fraught with cronyism, a good ole boy club whereby you have to be anointed to become a member (if you play ball with the powers that be). The last thing they want is an outsider to come in and shake things up. By controlling the rules by which the game is played, the board pretty much has carte blanche to do what they want, and therein lies the problem. The board might be smug and content, but the institution itself begins to deteriorate from neglect. Where there is cronyism, there is incompetence, and where there is incompetence, there is decay. Whenever you see a nonprofit organization fail to adequately report to their constituency on its activities and status, or goes so far as to thwart criticism of the status quo, you see such a scenario.

Typically the only way to overcome a despot or like-minded board is to take over the board in force or by legal maneuvering. Then again, is the incoming board going to be any different than the outgoing board?

Such is my Pet Peeve of the Week.

Note: All trademarks both marked and unmarked belong to their respective companies.

"BRYCE'S PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK"

Folks, a couple of years ago I started to include my "Pet Peeve of the Week" in these "Management Visions" podcasts. They have become so popular that I now syndicate them through the Internet and they are available for republication in other media. To this end, I have created a separate web page for my writings which you can find at phmainstreet.com Look for the section, "The Bryce is Right!" Hope you enjoy them.

Also, if you happen to be in the Tampa Bay area of Florida, be sure to stop by and check out our new Palm Harbor Business OASIS, a new business venue offering local business people a place to meet, work, network, and relax. Why pay a lot for leasing office space when you can become a member of the OASIS for as little as $100/month? For more information, visit our web site at: http://www.phboasis.com/

AND FINALLY...

I received the following e-mail regarding my Pet Peeve on "Presidential Legacies":

A K.C. of Roswell, New Mexico wrote...

"He (Pres. Bush) has also sent alot of money to Africa for health issues that the U.N. refuses to do anything about. They just sit back and watch another horrific genocide."

A D.E. of Golden Hill, Maryland wrote...

"Basically a good re-cap, but my personal feelings are that for LBJ you actually listed two negatives as the 'Great Society' was just another step towards the Democrats push for socialism; as for 'George the First', his NAFTA was also a step towards socialism."

I received the following e-mail regarding my Pet Peeve on "Personal Hygiene":

A K.P. of Minnesota wrote...

"I agree with you Tim that drives me crazy. Some people need to BATHE."

I received the following e-mail regarding my Pet Peeve on "What's wrong with a little discipline?":

A B.L. of New York wrote...

"Finally, common sense has come back to the classroom!!! We need more teachers and administrators like this. It seems kids today have no discipline at home and when that happens, it carries over in school and in public. They have no self-respect and show none to anyone else. If you say something to them about the way they act, you get a one finger salute. They know you can't do anything to them and they can get away with it. I used to get an "attitude adjustment" from Dad once a month whether I needed it or not. Great article!!!!"

Again, thanks for your comments. For these and other comments, please visit my "Bryce is Right!" web site.

Keep those cards and letters coming.

MBA is an international management consulting firm specializing in Information Resource Management. We offer training, consulting, and writing services in the areas of Enterprise Engineering, Systems Engineering, Data Base Engineering, Project Management, Methodologies and Repositories. For information, call us at 727/786-4567.

Our corporate web page is at:

http://phmainstreet.com/mba/

Management Visions is a presentation of M. Bryce & Associates, a division of M&JB Investment Company of Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. The program is produced on a weekly basis and updated on Sundays. It is available in versions for RealPlayer, Microsoft Media Player, and MP3 suitable for Podcasting. See our web site for details. You'll find our broadcast listed in several Podcast and Internet Search engines, as well as Apples' iTunes.

If you have any questions or would like to be placed on our e-mailing list to receive notification of future broadcasts, please e-mail it to timb001@phmainstreet.com

For a copy of past broadcasts, please contact me directly.

We accept MP3 files with your voice for possible inclusion in the broadcast.

There is no charge for adding a link to "Management Visions" on your web page, for details and HTML code, see the "Management Visions" web site.

Management Visions accepts advertising. For rates, please contact yours truly directly.

Copyright © 2009 by M&JB Investment Company of Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. All rights reserved. "PRIDE" is the registered trademark of M&JB Investment Company.

This is Tim Bryce reporting.

Since 1971: "Software for the finest computer - the Mind."

END

December 29, 2008

"PRIDE"-DBEM - PHASE 1 - DATA BASE STUDY & EVALUATION (SPECIAL)

This is Part XXII in our series on the "PRIDE" Methodologies for IRM. In this edition we describe the activities of Phase 1, "Data Base Study & Evaluation" in the "PRIDE"-Data Base Engineering Methodology (DBEM).

The full text for this section can be obtained by clicking: HERE.

NEXT UP: Phase 2, "Application Logical DB Design" of the "PRIDE"-Data Base Engineering Methodology (DBEM).

If you would like to discuss this with me in more depth, please do not hesitate to send me an e-mail.

Keep the faith!

OUR BRYCE'S LAW OF THE WEEK therefore is...

"Data is stored; Information is produced."

"MORPHING INTO THE REAL WORLD"

Friends, be sure to check out our book entitled, "MORPHING INTO THE REAL WORLD - A Handbook for Entering the Work Force" which is a survival guide for young people as they transition into adult life.

Bonnie Wooding, the President of the Toronto Chapter of the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) said, "Many of our members are just starting their careers and I will be recommending that they read this book, especially Chapter 3, Professional Development - a primer for business skills and filled with basic common sense advice that is simple, easy to follow and extraordinarily practical; and Chapter 5, Do’s and Don’ts of the Workplace, an excellent resource for those questions you are too embarrassed to ask for fear of looking foolish."

The Miami Hurricane recently reviewed it (10/22/2007) and said,

"the abundance of information the book provides is a good start for anyone about to take the first step into the real world. Though the concept of adulthood may seem intimidating, it's comforting to know that someone has at least written a guidebook for it."

Reviewer Bill Petrey praised it by saying, "Every young person entering the workplace for the first time should be given a copy of this book."

The book includes chapters to describe how a young person should organize themselves, how to adapt to the corporate culture, develop their career, and improve themselves professionally and socially. Basically, its 208 pages of good sound advice to jump start the young person into the work force. Corporate Human Resource departments will also find this book useful for setting new hires on the right track in their career. It not only reinforces the many formal rules as contained in corporate policy manuals, but also includes the subtle unwritten rules we must all observe while working with others. The book lists for $25 and can be ordered online through MBA or your local book store. Complementing the book is a one day seminar of the same name which can be purchased separately for $4,000.00 (U.S.) plus instructor travel expenses. For more information on both the book and the seminar, visit our corporate web site at: http://www.phmainstreet.com/mba/morph.htm
ISBN: 978-0-9786182-5-4

MY "PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK" IS "WHAT'S WRONG WITH A LITTLE DISCIPLINE?"

Caroline Haynes is my new hero. A lot of you may be saying "Who the heck is Caroline Haynes?", particularly those of you outside of the United Kingdom, but Ms. Haynes is a school principal who recently caught the attention of the press when she started to implement strict discipline in the classroom. I've never had the pleasure of actually meeting Ms. Haynes, but I have been doing a lot of reading about her recently. She is with the Tendring Technology College in Clacton-on-Sea, Essex, UK, a secondary school which, when translated to the American equivalent, is a private school for children ages 11-19.

What makes her story interesting is that she adopted a zero-tolerance policy on student discipline at her school under the premise that bad behavior effects the culture of learning. She is quoted as saying, "It stands to reason that a lax policy on discipline will result in increased bad behaviour."

Whereas government policy encourages more tolerance in terms of youth discipline, Ms. Haynes has adopted an opposing policy that has resulted in 478 suspensions in one year at a school with 1,880 pupils (25%). Currently, she is averaging two suspensions every day for bad behavior. Swearing at teachers, classroom disruptions, drugs, fighting, and bad attitudes are simply not tolerated. Her tactics may sound somewhat radical in a permissive society, but you cannot deny her results. Since cracking down on discipline, student passing rates jumped from 48% to 74%, a substantial increase. Ms. Haynes said, "Our policy immediately bore fruit. Exam results have soared. I'm very proud."

For full test results at Tendring, click HERE.

Now, instead of adversarial relationships and tension in the classroom, students are free to concentrate on their studies and are improving noticeably. Now for the kicker; I'm told students like the discipline and prefer it over chaos. This is consistent with what I have been saying that people tend to thrive in a structured environment that is well organized and leadership is strong, whether it is in school or in business. It eliminates distractions thereby allowing people to focus and be more productive. Further, it brings consistency to work products and promotes craftsmanship. People not only need a little discipline, they actually prefer operating in such a manner which improves communications and gives them a sense of direction.

You have heard me say we need some real heroes these days, people to be emulated. Well, Ms. Haynes is one that gets my vote. In an age where discipline is spurned, she offers tangible proof of the benefits that can be derived from a little law and order in our daily lives.

For more information on Ms. Haynes, see the following TELEGRAPH story or THE INDEPENDENT story.

Such is my Pet Peeve of the Week.

Note: All trademarks both marked and unmarked belong to their respective companies.

"BRYCE'S PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK"

Folks, a couple of years ago I started to include my "Pet Peeve of the Week" in these "Management Visions" podcasts. They have become so popular that I now syndicate them through the Internet and they are available for republication in other media. To this end, I have created a separate web page for my writings which you can find at phmainstreet.com Look for the section, "The Bryce is Right!" Hope you enjoy them.

Also, if you happen to be in the Tampa Bay area of Florida, be sure to stop by and check out our new Palm Harbor Business OASIS, a new business venue offering local business people a place to meet, work, network, and relax. Why pay a lot for leasing office space when you can become a member of the OASIS for as little as $100/month? For more information, visit our web site at: http://www.phboasis.com/

AND FINALLY...

I received the following e-mail regarding my Pet Peeve on "Crud":

An L.T. of Fall River, Massachusetts wrote...

"Reading this and nodding my head at all the piles of crud I have surrounding me. Years ago I picked up a tip and have tried sticking to it. For everything you decide you must keep two other items must go. If not for this rule I would not be able to find my front door. Even so the crud still piles up."

A D.T. of Raleigh, Norh Carolina wrote...

"I am a hobbyist and tinkerer. I love gadgets, cars, and such. My garage is full of odds and ends - old electronics and what-not that may work (or may not) and have very limited (if any) actual future value - not monetary, but usefulleness or potential for usefullness. A loft in my garage is full of odd lengths of lumber - 2x4s, trim wood, moulding, etc. I have bins full of peices of metal - angle iron, square and round tubing, flat stock, etc. Drawers full of nuts, bolts, washers, and more containers (oh how I love containers!) - margerine tubs, coffee cans, jars... Some of this, I think, stems from growing up not having much - I feel very hesitant to part with anything, with the looming concern that 'if' we ever need it again, we'll be forced to purchase a whole new one (if we can even find such an artifact)! I know that many people raised around the depression or WWII generation (rationing, devastation after the war, etc.) have similar hoarding habits, when allowed to do so. I was born in 1970, so I don't have those inclinations necessarily, but it may have been influence from my grandparents, who raised me for much of my childhood. I need to clean out my garage (as well as my house) of all this 'crud' but that nagging voice in my head keeps telling me: 'what if you might need it?' and admonishes me: 'you never know...'"

Again, thanks for your comments. For these and other comments, please visit my "Bryce is Right!" web site.

Keep those cards and letters coming.

MBA is an international management consulting firm specializing in Information Resource Management. We offer training, consulting, and writing services in the areas of Enterprise Engineering, Systems Engineering, Data Base Engineering, Project Management, Methodologies and Repositories. For information, call us at 727/786-4567.

Our corporate web page is at:

http://phmainstreet.com/mba/

Management Visions is a presentation of M. Bryce & Associates, a division of M&JB Investment Company of Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. The program is produced on a weekly basis and updated on Sundays. It is available in versions for RealPlayer, Microsoft Media Player, and MP3 suitable for Podcasting. See our web site for details. You'll find our broadcast listed in several Podcast and Internet Search engines, as well as Apples' iTunes.

If you have any questions or would like to be placed on our e-mailing list to receive notification of future broadcasts, please e-mail it to timb001@phmainstreet.com

For a copy of past broadcasts, please contact me directly.

We accept MP3 files with your voice for possible inclusion in the broadcast.

There is no charge for adding a link to "Management Visions" on your web page, for details and HTML code, see the "Management Visions" web site.

Management Visions accepts advertising. For rates, please contact yours truly directly.

Copyright © 2008 by M&JB Investment Company of Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. All rights reserved. "PRIDE" is the registered trademark of M&JB Investment Company.

This is Tim Bryce reporting.

Since 1971: "Software for the finest computer - the Mind."

END

December 22, 2008

"PRIDE"-DBEM - METHODOLOGY CONSTRUCTION/NAVIGATION (SPECIAL)

This is Part XXI in our series on the "PRIDE" Methodologies for IRM. In this edition we provide a description of the concepts and philosophies used in the "PRIDE"-Data Base Engineering Methodology (DBEM).

The full text for this section can be obtained by clicking: HERE.

NEXT UP: Phase 1 - Data Base Study & Evaluation of the "PRIDE"-Data Base Engineering Methodology (DBEM).

If you would like to discuss this with me in more depth, please do not hesitate to send me an e-mail.

Keep the faith!

OUR BRYCE'S LAW OF THE WEEK therefore is...

"There are those who suggest that data "belongs" to the various users or departments of a company. This is like saying money is the property of the sales or accounting departments, not the company. Data belongs to the enterprise as a whole and not to any single person or department."

"MORPHING INTO THE REAL WORLD"

Friends, be sure to check out our book entitled, "MORPHING INTO THE REAL WORLD - A Handbook for Entering the Work Force" which is a survival guide for young people as they transition into adult life.

Bonnie Wooding, the President of the Toronto Chapter of the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) said, "Many of our members are just starting their careers and I will be recommending that they read this book, especially Chapter 3, Professional Development - a primer for business skills and filled with basic common sense advice that is simple, easy to follow and extraordinarily practical; and Chapter 5, Do’s and Don’ts of the Workplace, an excellent resource for those questions you are too embarrassed to ask for fear of looking foolish."

The Miami Hurricane recently reviewed it (10/22/2007) and said,

"the abundance of information the book provides is a good start for anyone about to take the first step into the real world. Though the concept of adulthood may seem intimidating, it's comforting to know that someone has at least written a guidebook for it."

Reviewer Bill Petrey praised it by saying, "Every young person entering the workplace for the first time should be given a copy of this book."

The book includes chapters to describe how a young person should organize themselves, how to adapt to the corporate culture, develop their career, and improve themselves professionally and socially. Basically, its 208 pages of good sound advice to jump start the young person into the work force. Corporate Human Resource departments will also find this book useful for setting new hires on the right track in their career. It not only reinforces the many formal rules as contained in corporate policy manuals, but also includes the subtle unwritten rules we must all observe while working with others. The book lists for $25 and can be ordered online through MBA or your local book store. Complementing the book is a one day seminar of the same name which can be purchased separately for $4,000.00 (U.S.) plus instructor travel expenses. For more information on both the book and the seminar, visit our corporate web site at: http://www.phmainstreet.com/mba/morph.htm
ISBN: 978-0-9786182-5-4

MY "PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK" IS "PRESIDENTIAL LEGACIES"

We're coming down to the closing days of the Bush administration and I find it interesting how he has been portrayed as a political pariah. All presidents have some political baggage they have to take home with them as they leave office, but I find it interesting that the public tends to remember only the bad things and not the good things the President has done. To illustrate, consider the legacy of the last few presidents and how they will undoubtedly be remembered by historians, both pro and con:

Lyndon Johnson -
Negative: Will primarily be remembered for escalating the Viet Nam War.
Positive: But he will also be remembered for his "Great Society" legislation which is still with us today.

Richard Nixon -
Negative: Of course, Watergate is the first image conjured up by anyone discussing Nixon.
Positive: Opened relations with China and started an era of détente with the Soviet Union.

Gerald Ford -
Negative: Portrayed as a bumbler by the media, and his pardon of Richard Nixon didn't sit well with them either.
Positive: Although he was in office for only a short period of time, he was able to restore decency and honor to the presidency.

Jimmy Carter -
Negative: Iran is indelibly associated with Carter, including the fall of the Shah, the rise of the Ayotallah, the hostages, and the botched rescue attempt. Iran ultimately cost Carter the White House.
Positive: Helping to negotiate the peace treaty between Israel and Egypt. He also started the Department of Energy and encouraged energy conservation.

Ronald Reagan -
Negative: The Iran-Contra affair was like an annoying gnat that wouldn't go away.
Positive: Will be better remembered for the demise of the Soviet Union, the introduction of "Reaganomics" and an era of prosperity.

George H.W. Bush -
Negative: "Read my lips" cost him dearly, but it was the recession that ultimately did him in.
Positive: Won the first Persian Gulf War, he presided over the end of the Cold War (and the fall of the Berlin Wall), and introduced the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

Bill Clinton -
Negative: Impeached, Somalia, Whitewater controversy, Sexual misconduct, etc.
Positive: Presided over a peacetime economic expansion and the first balanced budget in many years.

George W. Bush -
Negative: Will long be criticized for the current financial crisis and ending the military presence in Iraq.
Positive: He stepped up to the plate when called upon for the War on Terror and forced the terrorists into retreat. He formed an international coalition and conquered Iraq. He also put the "Axis of Evil" on notice that the United States was not to be trifled with. And his tax cuts will be emulated by future presidents.

Except for Reagan and Clinton, all of the presidents listed here will be remembered for the negatives and not the positives. As to Reagan, the Iran-Contra affair was considered small potatoes when compared to his other accomplishments. Clinton on the other hand represents a strange conundrum; even though his administration was always at the forefront of controversy, he ended his term of office with high approval ratings. Whereas his antics would normally be considered political poison for anyone else, Clinton somehow came out of it smelling like a rose and is still held in high regard by the Democrats.

In contrast to Clinton, President Bush is not embraced by anyone, including his own political party. It disturbs me that Bush is portrayed as a bumbling uneducated schmuck while "Slick Willie" is seen as a saint. Wow, talk about having our moral values mixed up.

Nobody else will say it, so I will: Thank you President Bush for your many years of service to our country. Were you perfect? No, but neither will your successors be as they will undoubtedly screw-up somehow along the way. For some reason the media and American public seems to forget that we elect human-beings to the office of the President, not Gods.

Such is my Pet Peeve of the Week.

Note: All trademarks both marked and unmarked belong to their respective companies.

"BRYCE'S PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK"

Folks, a couple of years ago I started to include my "Pet Peeve of the Week" in these "Management Visions" podcasts. They have become so popular that I now syndicate them through the Internet and they are available for republication in other media. To this end, I have created a separate web page for my writings which you can find at phmainstreet.com Look for the section, "The Bryce is Right!" Hope you enjoy them.

Also, if you happen to be in the Tampa Bay area of Florida, be sure to stop by and check out our new Palm Harbor Business OASIS, a new business venue offering local business people a place to meet, work, network, and relax. Why pay a lot for leasing office space when you can become a member of the OASIS for as little as $100/month? For more information, visit our web site at: http://www.phboasis.com/

AND FINALLY...

I received the following e-mail regarding my Pet Peeve on "Cheating":

An R.Y. of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio wrote...

"I read an article in the Akron Beacon Journal (Dec.1, 2008 "High School Kids Lie, Cheat, and Steal") recently. It seems that although these surveyed students cheat and steal and lie more, 93% said that they "were satisfied with their personal ethics and character." Educators pointed out that there is more pressure and opportunities to cheat. But what about stealing - from stores and parents? What about the lying? I don't buy it. I think it goes back to entitlement - being entitled to a college education, to a job that pays top dollar and benefits right out of college, entitled to a new car, a house and all the things that go with it - those things that my parents, my husband and I, had to work years for. And let's not forget who their political role models have been!"

An E.C. of Fort Lauderdale, Florida wrote...

"Amen to your article. I see the effects of cheating all the time. The majority of students do it. Recent studies indicate that around 68% of students in high school have cheated on a test in the past year. Cheating is corrosive. People don't realize how damaging it is to the social bonds. Most people also consider themselves very ethical (same study). There is a serious disconnect here."

I received the following e-mails from my "Pet Peeve" entitled, "Breaking the Media's Influence":

A J.S. of Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote...

"You've made some excellent points, Tim. The media is no longer reporting factual news. News stories are mostly spin and speculation. Irresponsible jounalism is rampant. While the ad revenues may be supporting TV and Internet news, newpapers are bleeding red ink. The Detroit Free Press has reduced publication days to a few days per week. Other newspapers are closing altogether. I am also disgusted by the amount of money spent on campaigns. People are out of work, filing bankruptcy, getting foreclosed, are homeless and sick, but the campaign coffers are overflowing."

A P.E. of Dunedin, Florida wrote... A J.S. of Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote...

"Tim, Another great one!! Have you ever considered submitting some of your writings, especially the political ones, to The Washington Times, Investors Business Daily, Wall Street Journal, etc.?"

TIM'S REPLY: Thanks for your note. I used to submit articles to them, but I guess my writings are not controversial enough. If you know of someone who would enjoy my work though, please do not hesitate to forward my announcements to them or point them in the direction or my web address.

Again, thanks for your comments. For these and other comments, please visit my "Bryce is Right!" web site.

Keep those cards and letters coming.

MBA is an international management consulting firm specializing in Information Resource Management. We offer training, consulting, and writing services in the areas of Enterprise Engineering, Systems Engineering, Data Base Engineering, Project Management, Methodologies and Repositories. For information, call us at 727/786-4567.

Our corporate web page is at:

http://phmainstreet.com/mba/

Management Visions is a presentation of M. Bryce & Associates, a division of M&JB Investment Company of Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. The program is produced on a weekly basis and updated on Sundays. It is available in versions for RealPlayer, Microsoft Media Player, and MP3 suitable for Podcasting. See our web site for details. You'll find our broadcast listed in several Podcast and Internet Search engines, as well as Apples' iTunes.

If you have any questions or would like to be placed on our e-mailing list to receive notification of future broadcasts, please e-mail it to timb001@phmainstreet.com

For a copy of past broadcasts, please contact me directly.

We accept MP3 files with your voice for possible inclusion in the broadcast.

There is no charge for adding a link to "Management Visions" on your web page, for details and HTML code, see the "Management Visions" web site.

Management Visions accepts advertising. For rates, please contact yours truly directly.

Copyright © 2008 by M&JB Investment Company of Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. All rights reserved. "PRIDE" is the registered trademark of M&JB Investment Company.

This is Tim Bryce reporting.

Since 1971: "Software for the finest computer - the Mind."

END

December 15, 2008

"PRIDE"-DBEM - CONCEPTUAL FOUNDATION (SPECIAL)

This is Part XX in our series on the "PRIDE" Methodologies for IRM. In this edition we provide a description of the concepts and philosophies used in the "PRIDE"-Data Base Engineering Methodology (DBEM).

The full text for this section can be obtained by clicking: HERE.

NEXT UP: Methodology Navigation to the "PRIDE"-Data Base Engineering Methodology (DBEM).

If you would like to discuss this with me in more depth, please do not hesitate to send me an e-mail.

Keep the faith!

OUR BRYCE'S LAW OF THE WEEK therefore is...

"A Data Base is all of the data needed to support the information requirements of an enterprise, regardless of where used or how stored. By this definition, all companies have a data base; some are managed, most are not."

"MORPHING INTO THE REAL WORLD"

Friends, be sure to check out our book entitled, "MORPHING INTO THE REAL WORLD - A Handbook for Entering the Work Force" which is a survival guide for young people as they transition into adult life.

Bonnie Wooding, the President of the Toronto Chapter of the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) said, "Many of our members are just starting their careers and I will be recommending that they read this book, especially Chapter 3, Professional Development - a primer for business skills and filled with basic common sense advice that is simple, easy to follow and extraordinarily practical; and Chapter 5, Do’s and Don’ts of the Workplace, an excellent resource for those questions you are too embarrassed to ask for fear of looking foolish."

The Miami Hurricane recently reviewed it (10/22/2007) and said,

"the abundance of information the book provides is a good start for anyone about to take the first step into the real world. Though the concept of adulthood may seem intimidating, it's comforting to know that someone has at least written a guidebook for it."

Reviewer Bill Petrey praised it by saying, "Every young person entering the workplace for the first time should be given a copy of this book."

The book includes chapters to describe how a young person should organize themselves, how to adapt to the corporate culture, develop their career, and improve themselves professionally and socially. Basically, its 208 pages of good sound advice to jump start the young person into the work force. Corporate Human Resource departments will also find this book useful for setting new hires on the right track in their career. It not only reinforces the many formal rules as contained in corporate policy manuals, but also includes the subtle unwritten rules we must all observe while working with others. The book lists for $25 and can be ordered online through MBA or your local book store. Complementing the book is a one day seminar of the same name which can be purchased separately for $4,000.00 (U.S.) plus instructor travel expenses. For more information on both the book and the seminar, visit our corporate web site at: http://www.phmainstreet.com/mba/morph.htm
ISBN: 978-0-9786182-5-4

MY "PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK" IS "BREAKING THE MEDIA'S INFLUENCE"

I guess it's no secret that the media is driven by money, particularly in an election year. Sure, their revenues from athletics and prime time shows are nice, but make no mistake, it is politics that fuels the fires of the media. Consider that in this year's presidential campaign, the Democrats and Republicans alone spent over $360 million on television advertising, and this does not include the Internet, radio, newspapers, handouts, billboards and signs. Although the final numbers haven't been tabulated yet, it has been estimated that the presidential race cost around $2.4 billion, twice the amount spent in 2004 and three times what was spent in 2000. Kowabunga!

Let us also not forget the other congressional candidates who ran this year. Keep in mind, they set a record just two years ago for midterm elections where over $1 billion was spent on advertising. I think it's safe to say the record will be easily beaten this year. The nonpartisan Center for Responsive Politics estimated that over $5.3 billion will have been spent on federal contests, and this doesn't include state or local contests either.

Let's face it, campaigns for political office means big bucks and explains why the media is so obsessed with them; it is their bread and butter. As an aside, I chuckle when I hear the media complain about the overt influence of lobbyists who cough up the money to pay for the exorbitant fees the media charges. Talk about the pot calling the kettle "black." The media represents the biggest lobbyist around, bar none, but instead of paying money, they take it all in.

The billions spent on fueling the media is disheartening to those of us who think such money could solve other more important problems in this country, such as helping the needy, fixing our infrastructure, or performing research for our energy and health requirements.

The public likes to complain about the dominating influence of the media, yet for every dollar donated in support of a political candidate, you are just fueling the media. Next time, instead of mailing a check to your candidate, you might as well mail it directly to the media and save some postage.

We have tried to enact campaign reforms before, but this hasn't really gotten us anywhere. The politicians realize cutting campaign contributions would be like cutting their nose off to spite their face. Recognizing that our politicians are spineless in terms of campaign reform, I propose something entirely different, something that might actually work. Instead of imposing caps, I say eliminate limits altogether, bring in as much money as possible, BUT, for every dollar contributed to a political campaign, another dollar must be donated to a special account dedicated to such things as charity, research and other pertinent causes. In other words, half goes to the politicians and media, and the other half goes to fund a truly worthwhile cause. Just imagine what could be done with $2.65 billion (half of the $5.3 billion mentioned earlier).

This proposal will ultimately kill two birds with one stone; first, it will disempower the media by greatly reducing its source of income, and second; the diverted money will go into those programs we truly need. As I see it, it's a win-win-win situation; politicians can still spend campaign money but at a greatly reduced rate, the media's influence is greatly diminished, and instead of wasting money on the media, we invest it in ourselves. More importantly, it helps to break the influence of the media.

Such is my Pet Peeve of the Week.

Note: All trademarks both marked and unmarked belong to their respective companies.

"BRYCE'S PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK"

Folks, a couple of years ago I started to include my "Pet Peeve of the Week" in these "Management Visions" podcasts. They have become so popular that I now syndicate them through the Internet and they are available for republication in other media. To this end, I have created a separate web page for my writings which you can find at phmainstreet.com Look for the section, "The Bryce is Right!" Hope you enjoy them.

Also, if you happen to be in the Tampa Bay area of Florida, be sure to stop by and check out our new Palm Harbor Business OASIS, a new business venue offering local business people a place to meet, work, network, and relax. Why pay a lot for leasing office space when you can become a member of the OASIS for as little as $100/month? For more information, visit our web site at: http://www.phboasis.com/

AND FINALLY...

I received the following e-mail regarding my Pet Peeve on "Beautiful People":

An S.B. of Greenbelt, Maryland wrote...

"Funny you should pick this topic: the same occurred to me the other night watching the Tonight Show. The guy starring in the new movie, "Twilight" (which is a pretty loathsome story on its own), was on the show. He looked like he had just dragged out of bed: unshaven, shirt out, etc. My impression wasn't laziness, but arrogance. "I don't give a d--- about the public, those paying for my performance. Why should I put myself out?" I think Jay Leno had about the same reaction. But, this isn't going to change this as long as people keep buying the tickets."

A J.S. of Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote...

"I'm not sure why people are so fascinated by celebrities. My guess is that they don't have fulfilling lives of their own. One of the popular internet displays is the site with photos of the gigantic homes of celebrities. Nowhere does it mention who build the houses. I agree, Tim. Generally speaking, our society's values have dropped pretty low. We see progress in some areas, but celebrity worship isn't one of them."

I received the following e-mails from my "Pet Peeve" entitled, "Economics 101":

An M.H. of Las Vegas, Nevada wrote...

"You mean I should not buy a half million dollar house when I can JUST afford my apartment? Who would of thunk it? Good post."

A J.S. of Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote...

"You've given some excellent advice, which ought to be common sense, but common sense isn't common these days. I share your opinion about the timing of the announcement. Are our elected officials really so dense that they didn't notice the unemployment, forclosures and bankruptcies during their campaigns? I guess the announcement makes it official. It's no surprise to most of us."

Again, thanks for your comments. For these and other comments, please visit my "Bryce is Right!" web site.

Keep those cards and letters coming.

MBA is an international management consulting firm specializing in Information Resource Management. We offer training, consulting, and writing services in the areas of Enterprise Engineering, Systems Engineering, Data Base Engineering, Project Management, Methodologies and Repositories. For information, call us at 727/786-4567.

Our corporate web page is at:

http://phmainstreet.com/mba/

Management Visions is a presentation of M. Bryce & Associates, a division of M&JB Investment Company of Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. The program is produced on a weekly basis and updated on Sundays. It is available in versions for RealPlayer, Microsoft Media Player, and MP3 suitable for Podcasting. See our web site for details. You'll find our broadcast listed in several Podcast and Internet Search engines, as well as Apples' iTunes.

If you have any questions or would like to be placed on our e-mailing list to receive notification of future broadcasts, please e-mail it to timb001@phmainstreet.com

For a copy of past broadcasts, please contact me directly.

We accept MP3 files with your voice for possible inclusion in the broadcast.

There is no charge for adding a link to "Management Visions" on your web page, for details and HTML code, see the "Management Visions" web site.

Management Visions accepts advertising. For rates, please contact yours truly directly.

Copyright © 2008 by M&JB Investment Company of Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. All rights reserved. "PRIDE" is the registered trademark of M&JB Investment Company.

This is Tim Bryce reporting.

Since 1971: "Software for the finest computer - the Mind."

END

December 8, 2008

"PRIDE"-ISEM PHASE 9 - ISEM EVALUATION (SPECIAL)

This is Part XIX in our series on the "PRIDE" Methodologies for IRM. In this edition we provide a description of the concepts and philosophies used in the "PRIDE"-Information Systems Engineering Methodology (ISEM).

The full text for this section can be obtained by clicking: HERE.

NEXT UP: Introduction to the "PRIDE"-Data Base Engineering Methodology (DBEM).

If you would like to discuss this with me in more depth, please do not hesitate to send me an e-mail.

Keep the faith!

OUR BRYCE'S LAW OF THE WEEK therefore is...

"Systems do not have a 'life cycle.' They may go on forever if kept viable with change. The only thing that has a 'life cycle' is a project which has a beginning for planning, a middle for execution, and an end for review."

"MORPHING INTO THE REAL WORLD"

Friends, be sure to check out our book entitled, "MORPHING INTO THE REAL WORLD - A Handbook for Entering the Work Force" which is a survival guide for young people as they transition into adult life.

Bonnie Wooding, the President of the Toronto Chapter of the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) said, "Many of our members are just starting their careers and I will be recommending that they read this book, especially Chapter 3, Professional Development - a primer for business skills and filled with basic common sense advice that is simple, easy to follow and extraordinarily practical; and Chapter 5, Do’s and Don’ts of the Workplace, an excellent resource for those questions you are too embarrassed to ask for fear of looking foolish."

The Miami Hurricane recently reviewed it (10/22/2007) and said,

"the abundance of information the book provides is a good start for anyone about to take the first step into the real world. Though the concept of adulthood may seem intimidating, it's comforting to know that someone has at least written a guidebook for it."

Reviewer Bill Petrey praised it by saying, "Every young person entering the workplace for the first time should be given a copy of this book."

The book includes chapters to describe how a young person should organize themselves, how to adapt to the corporate culture, develop their career, and improve themselves professionally and socially. Basically, its 208 pages of good sound advice to jump start the young person into the work force. Corporate Human Resource departments will also find this book useful for setting new hires on the right track in their career. It not only reinforces the many formal rules as contained in corporate policy manuals, but also includes the subtle unwritten rules we must all observe while working with others. The book lists for $25 and can be ordered online through MBA or your local book store. Complementing the book is a one day seminar of the same name which can be purchased separately for $4,000.00 (U.S.) plus instructor travel expenses. For more information on both the book and the seminar, visit our corporate web site at: http://www.phmainstreet.com/mba/morph.htm
ISBN: 978-0-9786182-5-4

MY "PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK" IS "ECONOMICS 101"

There have been a variety of things blamed for the 2008 economic crunch, such as outsourcing work overseas, bad loan policies, the value of the dollar and oil, government regulation, corporate corruption, the stock markets, etc. My guess is that it's probably a lot simpler than all this, namely John Q. Public has forgotten about basic economics. Maybe it's time for a refresher course:

First, don't spread yourself too thin. This means don't spend more than you have or earn. It seems to me a lot of young people today want it all right away; the big house, the big car, the latest electronic toys, etc. This, of course, results in the big bills and big headaches. Maybe we should be less consumed with "keeping up with the Jones'" and more with paying our bills and keeping our creditors happy. To do so, minimize your financial dependencies, such as rent or mortgage, car loans, credit cards, etc. Do some soul-searching and reassess your priorities. That $400 cell phone may look pretty snazzy, but could that money be more wisely spent elsewhere?

Second, maintain a good credit record. Pay your bills on time and avoid penalties. Someone who doesn't pay their bills on time is less likely to get a loan when they need it as opposed to someone who does. Bankruptcy is not the panacea it may seem; it can be a rather arduous process to recover from it and it will be a long time before anybody offers you a line of credit.

Third, try to put something away for a rainy day. This may be hard to do, but it will be worth it during turbulent times (such as what we are currently going through). Don't know where to save your money? Consult a reputable financial planner, someone you personally trust. An independent consultant is every bit as good as some of the big boys, maybe more so.

Finally, the politicians and media have come to the realization that we're in the midst of a recession. I wonder if it's a coincidence that they had this epiphany only after the November elections. We are now in the midst of the holiday shopping madness, and when the dust clears it will be reported that sales are radically down and the gross domestic product will be lower than expected, again. I would use the word "depression", but I don't think we're that far gone yet and will be able to pull out of this. The survivors will be those who keep their cool and pay attention to the basics.

So, who is at fault for our latest round of economic woes? As Pogo said, "We have met the enemy and he is us." High finance is nice, but if everyone had paid attention to Economics 101 we probably wouldn't be in this mess today.

Such is my Pet Peeve of the Week.

Note: All trademarks both marked and unmarked belong to their respective companies.

"BRYCE'S PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK"

Folks, a couple of years ago I started to include my "Pet Peeve of the Week" in these "Management Visions" podcasts. They have become so popular that I now syndicate them through the Internet and they are available for republication in other media. To this end, I have created a separate web page for my writings which you can find at phmainstreet.com Look for the section, "The Bryce is Right!" Hope you enjoy them.

Also, if you happen to be in the Tampa Bay area of Florida, be sure to stop by and check out our new Palm Harbor Business OASIS, a new business venue offering local business people a place to meet, work, network, and relax. Why pay a lot for leasing office space when you can become a member of the OASIS for as little as $100/month? For more information, visit our web site at: http://www.phboasis.com/

AND FINALLY...

I received the following e-mail regarding my Pet Peeve on "Teen Buzz":

A J.S. in Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote...

"This is really interesting, Tim. I can vouch for the acute hearing of teenagers. When my daughter was in high school, our TV was on, but set on pause, waiting to play a VHS tape. I couldn't hear anything, but she got very annoyed and turned off the set. She couldn't believe I couldn't hear the whine and I couldn't believe she could. She is 21 now, so we'll have to try that again to see if presbycussis has set in. She makes fun of me for my presbyopia and my granny glasses. Now we'll see who else is aging..."

An M.R. in Oregon wrote...

"My 16 year old standing here, he hurried and left!! I asked him what did it sound like? He said like a very high pitched squeal, like you said. The dogs did not respond, and my husband and I could not hear it. My parrot did not respond either (I thought she might). Finally my 16 year old in the other room yelled it hurt his ear and could I stop it. Very interesting! Thumbs up for your blog!"

I received the following e-mails from my "Pet Peeve" entitled, "Expanding Government":

A T.N. of Golden Valley, California wrote...

"I agree that the public sector will shrink, as the private sector is already doing. But the other end of that see-saw is welfare for those who are no longer needed for the country to function. Job programs no longer work, they ceased working at the turn of the century. A small middle class is normal. Extended families living together is normal. The past 70 or so years are not at all normal."

A D.E. of Golden Hill, Maryland wrote...

"I'd have to say that you've hit the nail on the head...again. Good post! I think a lot of it has to do with the government learning that if it gets the public to 'think' that it's getting something for nothing, they will believe it and allow government to grow. Case in point, or should I say future case in point, Obama ran a well executed race. He used the typical "Chicago politics" (that, sadly, is no longer restricted to Chicago) or 'promise them everything give them nothing and take as much as you can get'. In the next four years government will grow; sadly it will be exponentially rather than linearly. Great job!"

Again, thanks for your comments. For these and other comments, please visit my "Bryce is Right!" web site.

Keep those cards and letters coming.

MBA is an international management consulting firm specializing in Information Resource Management. We offer training, consulting, and writing services in the areas of Enterprise Engineering, Systems Engineering, Data Base Engineering, Project Management, Methodologies and Repositories. For information, call us at 727/786-4567.

Our corporate web page is at:

http://phmainstreet.com/mba/

Management Visions is a presentation of M. Bryce & Associates, a division of M&JB Investment Company of Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. The program is produced on a weekly basis and updated on Sundays. It is available in versions for RealPlayer, Microsoft Media Player, and MP3 suitable for Podcasting. See our web site for details. You'll find our broadcast listed in several Podcast and Internet Search engines, as well as Apples' iTunes.

If you have any questions or would like to be placed on our e-mailing list to receive notification of future broadcasts, please e-mail it to timb001@phmainstreet.com

For a copy of past broadcasts, please contact me directly.

We accept MP3 files with your voice for possible inclusion in the broadcast.

There is no charge for adding a link to "Management Visions" on your web page, for details and HTML code, see the "Management Visions" web site.

Management Visions accepts advertising. For rates, please contact yours truly directly.

Copyright © 2008 by M&JB Investment Company of Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. All rights reserved. "PRIDE" is the registered trademark of M&JB Investment Company.

This is Tim Bryce reporting.

Since 1971: "Software for the finest computer - the Mind."

END