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

November 24, 2008

"PRIDE"-ISEM PHASE 7 - SUB-SYSTEM TEST (SPECIAL)

This is Part XVII 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: Phase 8 of the "PRIDE"-Information Systems Engineering Methodology (ISEM), System Operation.

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...

"How a system is implemented is of little importance if it solves the problem effectively."

"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 "DUMBING DOWN"

I recently read the government is forcing the manufacturers of cough medicine to add a label on their bottles warning that it is not suitable for young children under the age of four. Common sense would suggest you shouldn't give an infant a strong cough suppressant with codeine, but I guess common sense is not very common these days and we now have to explicitly tell people what to do all of the time. I refer to this as the "Dumbing Down" of America whereby we have to apply labels to everything, "Don't touch this," "Don't do that," etc.

The first example of this that I can remember is when the government mandated tobacco companies in the 1960's to put a warning on cigarette packs, "Smoking may be hazardous to your health." I've been smoking cigars for forty years now and even as a youngster I knew the risks involved, but I guess some people need a neon sign to warn them.

We're starting to see more signs like this in restaurant menus, such as, "Consuming raw or undercooked animal foods, poultry, beef, pork, seafood, eggs, may present a health risk." Really? What a shocker. The only thing I might eat raw is sushi, and I can guarantee you I'll be looking to see it is well prepared. Now there is a movement coming out of New York City whereby the government wants restaurants to post the number of calories associated with each entree. The idea is to warn consumers they might become fat if they eat the wrong items. Do you mean to tell me there is someone out there who can't tell the difference between the nutritional value of a Big Mac and a salad?

Either we're getting progressively stupid, or this is some subliminal plot by label makers and government bureaucrats to justify their existence. Do we really need to tell adults not to stick their tongues on a frozen flagpole? In a way, this reminds me of comedian Bill Engvall's "Here's your sign" routine, whereby the obvious isn't always obvious to people. Maybe some people need to get their tongues stuck now and then before they wake up. And maybe they need to come to the realization that they are responsible for their own actions, not someone else. "Dumbing Down" may be a good legal cop-out for some, but I for one do not want to be accused of lacking simple common sense.

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 "Paranoid Parenting":

An N.K. in Palm Harbor wrote...

"Your essay on parenting was right on. I say 'ditto' on that whole piece!"

A D.T. in Raligh, North Carolina wrote...

"Spot On! Parents should NOT try to be their children's friend above all. "Helicopter parents" (in a perpetual state of "hover" around their progeny) are doing their children as much disservice as parents who let pop culture raise them and provide the basis for their moral compass and interpersonal skills. Be a parent - step up, take the stand and raise your children. Give them the latitude to learn their own lessons and get their bumps and bruises. Do NOT be afraid to be "the bad guy/gal" by taking a firm position counter to the unbridled impulses of your children. In society, do not be "shocked and alarmed" when a parent disciplines their children in public. While there is NEVER justification for a closed-hand-strike or beating a child, if a parent wants to give a spanking, that is their choice. Providing redirection, discussing one's feelings and "time out" does not work for every child in every situation. Bottom line: You can't respect someone who worships the ground you walk on."

I received the following e-mails from my "Pet Peeve" entitled, "Handling Failure":

An R.L. in Seattle, Washington wrote...

"How can there possibly be success without failure? Two sides of the same coin (trite, but true). very good article!"

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

"Again, spot-on. Our society has become extremely risk-averse. Blanket zero-tolerance policies are a cop-out for never having to exercise judgment. Individual responsibility is a shade so far in the rearview-mirror, it becomes indistinguishable from the bland scenery. We, collectively, have such distaste for "failure" that nobody tries anything that isn't guaranteed (most "guarantees" have "out-of-context exceptions" that produce their own failure cases, as we are NOT omnipotent beings!). As a society, and especially in business, we reward the expected (despite the low-hurdles involved), shun the chance-takers, and celebrate our own mediocrity. We deserve better."

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

October 27, 2008

"PRIDE"-ISEM PHASE 4-I - ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE DESIGN (SPECIAL)

This is Part XIII 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: Phase 4-II of the "PRIDE"-Information Systems Engineering Methodology (ISEM), Software Engineering.

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...

"Information is for people, not for the computer."

"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 "THE FOUR DAY WORK WEEK"

The four day work week has been back in the news lately. I am hearing of a lot of companies in the Information Technology sector promoting the concept, whereby an employee works four days in the office and one at home or wherever he/she desires. The theory is to offer workers the freedom to work from home as opposed to the office which is commonly viewed as a pressure cooker. I never did buy into this concept and see it more as an excuse for employees to screw off. The only time I might accept it is when an employee is sick, particularly with an infectious disease, and it would serve the office better for that person to stay at home and not infect the other workers. Then again, we might get too many people calling in sick, but I digress.

The concept of telecommuting is an old one and something we would like to reward our more trusted employees with, but if you establish the precedent, others will claim unfair favoritism which may open Pandora's Box in terms of legal ramifications. To overcome this, you will have to demonstrate the trusted worker is more productive than others, and since there is typically no metrics in this regards, it is difficult to substantiate the claim.

The problem as I see the four day work week is one of perspective. Most of today's younger workers think in terms of hours worked, not what is produced during the period. This is a common flaw in today's work mentality regardless of your occupation. As any true manager will tell you, it's not the time you put in, it's the work product you put out. Today, workers are more inclined to watch the clock as opposed to what they are supposed to be producing.

Assuming we allow employees to work at home, how do we substantiate the employee has been working? Blind faith? For those I.T. workers who make extensive use of computers, some simple software can be devised to monitor computer activity and gather statistics; e.g., number of keystrokes/mouse clicks, execution of programs, idle time, swapper file activity, data transmission over the Internet, etc. When you compare such statistics between the home and the office, it would be relatively easy to determine who is really working at home and who is abusing the system.

In its purest form, I really don't have a problem with the concept of the four day work week, but it is ultimately based on worker trust, and I guess I have seen too many workers abuse a privilege like this over the years. As the old saying goes, "It's not what I know about dogs that makes me an expert, it's what I know about this dog that makes me an expert."

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 "I am NOT a PC":

An M.W. in Kenneth City, Florida wrote...

"I tend to agree. While I use a Windows operating system, it doesn't give me any sense of identity. Microsoft is the only company that can announce that they are releasing a flawed OS and have people waiting up until midnight to buy it. I own my computer, it does not own me."

A C.S. in Palm Harbor, Florida wrote...

"I agree 100%. I'm not even PC. Maybe that is what they were shooting for."

I received the following e-mails from my "Pet Peeve" entitled, "Moral Decay":

An A.S. in New Orleans, Louisianna wrote...

"Another example of the erosion of responsibility is that people no longer associate working with a job. For some reason there is a disconnect where people expect a paycheck but do as little as possible, sometimes virtually nothing. It used to be when you went to work, you worked. Now time is spent doing personal business, surfing the net, or other things without a thought."

An R.C. in Scottville, Michigan wrote...

"At one time, a man's or woman's handshake meant more then a contract and that is how my papa did it his whole life. Honor and integarty were worth more then."

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

October 13, 2008

"PRIDE"-ISEM PHASE 2 - SYSTEM DESIGN (SPECIAL)

This is Part XI 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: Phase 3 of the "PRIDE"-Information Systems Engineering Methodology (ISEM), Sub-System Design.

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...

"Only when the Systems Engineer can walk in the moccasins of the user does the engineer have a right to design a system for the user."

"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 "FEEL GOOD" TYPES

I recently attended a management seminar in my neck of the woods. I don't want to mention any names here but the speaker represented a consortium of consultants who specialized in a variety of subjects, such as business process improvement, tax laws, planning, technical writing, etc. The person making the pitch specialized in "life coaching" which, as I gathered, offered the same type of advice a good parent, guidance counselor or mentor would.

I judged the speaker to be in his mid-to-late 30's and was very preppy in dress. He tried the usual speaker stunts to stimulate the audience, such as saying, "How many of you has had this happen to you? Can I see a show of hands?" He also passed out prizes if you answered a question correctly, which made people look like trained seals being rewarded for tooting the horn and clapping. In addition to his histrionics, he was an entertaining speaker and used a good multimedia presentation to support his points. After awhile though, it became apparent there was little substance in his presentation, but you were supposed to go away feeling good about yourself, the consultant's service, and a possible business relationship.

After the seminar I ran into a couple of the attendees outside in the parking lot and asked them what they took away from the pitch. They both replied, "Not much," but they sure felt good about themselves. (I even thought I heard them humming "Kumbaya" as they walked away).

I've always wondered how speakers who offered more baloney than a delicatessen survived, but I've got a feeling they do quite well for themselves. Frankly, I don't think people want to know the truth and would much rather be entertained. Truth is often sacrificed for panaceas which the public seems to thrive on. After all, why exercise and diet properly when a little pill will cause you to lose weight instead? It should come as no small wonder that a lot of snake-oil has been sold over the years. It seems the public will buy anything if we pitch it with slick talk and make people feel good about themselves. In other words, tell the audience what they want to hear, not what they need to know.

People tend to resent brutal frankness - it may be correct, it may be something that needs to be said despite the political ramifications involved, but people just plain and simply have a hard time dealing with reality and prefer living in a surrealistic comic book world instead.

Years ago we were contracted to study the problems of an information systems department for a large Midwest life insurance company. We studied the group carefully and impartially, gathered the facts, and presented our conclusions to the board of directors. We didn't sugarcoat anything and told the executives precisely what the problems were and how to rectify them. The executives went into a bit of a state of shock as they had previously believed everything was running smoothly in their systems department. It wasn't. They didn't exactly like what we had to tell them, but they listened and to their credit acted on the information. Despite this, we were never asked back due to the embarrassing snafus we uncovered.

The point is, you can only be conned if you allow yourself to be conned. "Feel Good" speakers may be entertaining, but beware of their facade and seek substance instead. Politicians are very hip to this and use "feel good" to maximum effect. But if the upcoming presidential elections are as important as everyone seems to think they are, we need more of a reality check than to just "feel good." But will the public listen? We'll find out in November. Probably not.

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 "Complications":

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

"I agree that technology should improve our lives, not make it more complicated. I was ashamed that I never learned how to program the VCR. I got over that. Now I do not know how to even turn the television off correctly, find the programs I like to watch or even memorize which station is which. We have not one but three remotes for our main television set and I am oblivious as to which one controls which function. The good news is since I can never quite figure out what station I want I now just leave the television off. Reading a book is easier, no buttons to push."

An S.G. in Mt. Vernon, Illinois wrote...

"You got up to FIVE stations? Wow. Lucky! We got the three networks, but with one or another never coming in very well - usually it was whichever one you wanted to watch. On really good days we could pull in the PBS station in a really grainy way. And that was with an antenna on a tower with a rotor to control it. You must have been a town kid."

I received the following e-mails from my "Pet Peeve" entitled, "The Attributes of a Tough Task Master":

An M.B. in Clearwater, Florida wrote...

"Your article this week really filled my tank and gave me energy. I can really relate to your article today. I just took on a new training consulting assignment and realized that I am filling the task of the 'poor slob'. Got a call on a Thursday, to be at a client's site on Friday morning. It seems they need someone that can prepare and deliver 70 hrs of training two weeks from now. However, all the students are non citizens, from India and are hard to communicate with. So guess who got the job to deliver for these people. Hopefully I can, but will see. It's crunch time, and gotta run. Great Article as always. Just me the 'poor slob', trying to save face for usual 'postpone, delay, and put off until its almost too late' to save face with the client and its customers."

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

June 30, 2008

THE BENEFITS OF A SYSTEM AUDIT - OUR 150TH EPISODE

"Unless we learn from history, we are doomed to repeat it." This may be an old adage, but it is certainly true. Many organizations tend to regard project reviews as a waste of precious time and resources. Consequently, systems are installed without any type of follow-up. Because of this, many of the benefits were never realized. For example, clerical savings may have been part of the justification for a new system, but operating management did not reduce or reallocate the staff to realize the benefits. Without follow-up, "Parkinson's Law" may occur where "work expands to fill the time available."

As another example, a new operating management, created as a result of organizational changes, may not be utilizing the information provided by the system. They may be unaware of, or lack knowledge about the system. In order for management to have confidence in their systems organization and the systems installed, they should have tangible evidence that their significant investments are producing the promised results.

The systems organization can realize many benefits from a System Audit. It is not just a platitudinous statement to say that "we learn from our mistakes." It is a clear and established fact. A detailed audit provides Systems and Software personnel with an opportunity to review their estimating and design skills. This knowledge, along with historical data, can be gainfully applied to new systems and projects. As such, estimating guidelines can be updated.

A carefully executed audit can also add to the credibility of the systems organization by showing how well they performed and that they can account for their actions.

Finally, as a result of an audit, the systems organization may find that the new system is simply not functioning in spite of systems maintenance and revisions. In this event, the audit may indicate an entirely new approach should be taken as opposed to continually fighting the problem.

WHEN SHOULD YOU CONDUCT THE SYSTEM AUDIT?

The System Audit should be scheduled for execution after the system has operated for an adequate period of time. Typically, this will be between thirty (30) and ninety (90) days after implementation. In some instances, it may be necessary to conduct more than one audit, depending on the timing of implementation and execution of the various sub-systems within the system. For example, users may want a detailed accounting of project costs immediately after startup. The actual system evaluation can follow thereafter.

HOW SHOULD YOU PERFORM THE SYSTEM AUDIT?

Ideally, the audit should not be performed by the same individual(s) who developed the system. A neutral third party should be involved who can audit the system and project objectively.

The steps required to execute the System Audit are similar to:

• "Current Systems Analysis" - the intent of this activity is to study the existing system, sample work, and evaluate strengths and weaknesses. This same type of work is performed in the System Audit. Here, the Systems Analyst uses the systems documentation to walk through the system.

• "Prepare System Evaluation" - the intent of this activity is to estimate and schedule the remaining work effort, and perform a Cost/Benefit Analysis. During the System Audit, the Project Manager examines actual time reported, costs incurred and delivery dates. A final Cost/Benefit Analysis is calculated based on actual data (not estimated).

AUDIT CONSIDERATIONS

During the System Audit the Systems Analyst may identify errors, omissions and severe weaknesses in the new system. In this event, the analyst may initiate a Work Request to document the modification/improvement. This will then go through the normal process of evaluation and priority calculation.

A Project Management (PM) system can assemble all pertinent project data for analysis. This data can also be exported to other financial packages and spreadsheets for further analysis as required.

CONCLUSION

There are those who see System Audits as a waste of time and would rather scramble off to other assignments. As for me, I have always found the System Audit as an invaluable opportunity to fine tune the skills of our development staff and improve the standards and techniques used throughout the methodology. For example, after one System Audit we found it necessary to upgrade our programming standards to better promote consistency. We also found it necessary to obtain a prototyping tool to expedite the development of screens. This materially impacted subsequent projects which benefitted from the System Audit.

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."

eBOOK: THE BRYCE IS RIGHT

Folks, be sure to check out our eBook on management entitled, "The Bryce is Right! Empowering Managers in today's Corporate Culture." This is a frank and candid description of the state of the art in management and includes essays on the problems in management today, along with some pragmatic advice on how to deal with them. Basically, this is a condensed course in management. As such, it is suited for managers, either those aspiring to become a manager or for those who need a refresher course. It will also be of interest to young people entering the work force, and is excellent for college curriculums.

The price is just $20 plus tax.

We have also produced a one-day training program of the same name. For more information on both the eBook and course, please visit our web site at:

phmainstreet.com/mba

While there, look for our MS PowerPoint presentation describing both the book and the training program.

MY "PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK" IS "OFFICE MEETINGS"

I don't think there's too many of us who like to attend seemingly inconsequential meetings. It's hard to look attentive at those meetings where the boss is boring us to death about his recent fishing trip while we have a hot project waiting for us back at our desk. I am amazed by those people who seem to have no problem wasting your time.

There sure seems to be a lot of meetings that are poorly planned and run. Some managers just like to get together and "rap" about what's going on (and maybe sing a chorus of "Kumbaya" while they're at it). Michael Scott, the manager in NBC's sitcom "The Office" is perhaps the poster child for how to hold an ineffective meeting. I think the writers of the show have lampooned the subject from just about every possible angle.

I'm surprised how insensitive those running such meetings are to the people attending it. Understand this, unless someone is looking for an excuse to duck a work assignment, nobody wants to attend an inconsequential meeting.

Back when I first got involved with my homeowners association, the meetings lacked structure and would drown on literally for hours. When I finally became President I bought a gavel and printed up agendas for each meeting. What used to take hours to perform I got down to 55 minutes. In other words, it's certainly possible to put on a good meeting, you just need someone who knows what they are doing.

The other thing that bugs me about meetings is when people show up late thereby holding everybody up. Even worse, some people come totally unprepared. Only an a****** comes to a meeting without something to write with. Yet, we see this time and again, particularly by the newbies who simply don't know better.

I don't mind a good meeting that is constructive, timely, and well run. But please don't expect me to sit still anymore where we are going to do nothing more than talk about the number of angels that can dance on the head of a pin.

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-mails from my "Pet Peeve" entitled, "The Price of Gas":

An S.G. in Mt. Vernon, Illinois wrote...

"I remember wondering why we were negotiating with OPEC instead of developing our own resources. But I was young and got distracted with having children and caring for them. Oil was plentiful again. People became complacent. Maybe we will get it this time. After all, practice makes perfect."

An S.S. in Turkey wrote...

"I blame it all on PlaySkool which I used to watch when I was a child. They always sang a song that goes "Lets go driving in my car, car" :) No wonder I like to drive everywhere. I have been brainwashed as a toddler. Maybe they should change it to "Lets go riding on the bus, bus". Hmmm?"

I received the following e-mails from my "Pet Peeve" entitled, "Super Bowl Ads":

An O.O. in Bathurst, Australia wrote...

"The Apple ad would now cost $6 million, it runs for 60 seconds so it would be two slots, if NBC allowed Apple to do that. $3 million on a 10% margin, if you are lucky today, means $30 million in sales to pay for the ad!"

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