Its So Hard To Say Goodbye......

Here we are at the end of the semester. We have discussed so many topics, and studies cases of a number of companies in order to address their deficiencies and make recommendations in order to meet their needs. One major takeaway for me is the Business process re-engineering versus the more incremental and small scale redesign process. This is something that we can all apply directly as IT execs or just as managers. I will take these lessons with me and hopefully apply them for positive outcomes.

As we look back on the lessons learned this semester, I would like to ask that you all apply them to a scenario for me as a parting gift. IT is not as widespread as could be across the globe till date. Not everyone has access to the internet and the immense possibilities it holds. How do we encourage the spread of technology and jump start the use of technology in order to tap into the potential of the developing world?

Can You Do This?

As if the Nintendo Wii was not enough, Microsoft is coming out with its own interactive system called the Kinect. The Kinect has cameras that capture motion in the room and allows you to wireless interface with your XBOX360 console. Similar to the Wii, it will allow you to play games designed for exercise and weight loss.

I am curious as to the way forward from here. I always tried to imagine the way forward for the gaming industry. So what is next? We can work out using these consoles already. What sort of innovations would you like to see attached to these gaming consoles? Stock apps? Interactive cooking shows?

Thoughts?

I'll Take Outsourcing for 200 Please

So we've spent the last few weeks talking about outsourcing. Where, when, why, who and so on. Now I have a question about outsourcing. What is the criteria in determining who to outsource to. IT functions are continually being outsourced to India because of the know-how of the workforce and certain cost efficiencies.

Well what other factors would influence the selection of the locations and destinations. The answer to this question could lead to the opening of new business in the 3rd World in order to create jobs and spur technological advances.

Thank You Come Again

So outsourcing. As a tune in the political game this election season, we are hearing candidates talk about removing tax breaks for companies that ship jobs overseas. Apparently these CEOs and decision makers are the scum of the earth second only to people who kick puppies and hate babies. These people though are making the decisions that we discuss in class on a daily basis. Can cost efficiencies be gained by outsourcing whatever these jobs are? Is this responsibility part of the company's core competency? These are the kinds of questions that these CEOs have to use when making decisions.

They are demonized regularly but is outsourcing wrong? If I have to pay $100 for labor, taxes, regulations and shipping to get a product on the market, whereas I can make the same quality of product and have it delivered for $60 in China, this seems like a great deal. Is this approach wrong? Is there more to the equation that we are discussing? When something is outsourced, people are probably going to lose their jobs. What should a CEO do in this condition? Should the move be made anyway? Are they the devils they are painted to be even though they are just doing what they feel is necessary to keep their business running smoothly?

Please share your thoughts.