The Bobs

I don't think I wrote about this previously...and, if I did, I apologize. This one is more about work and the recent visit by consultants and our "Long-Term IT Strategy." Sounds like fun, eh?

Anyway, over the course of the past several months an outside consulting firm has interviewed employees to determine what they like and dislike about the current computer system. And while the marks were pretty good, the biggest complaint is incompatibility with our clients and customers. The biggest obstacle remains that we have continued to use Corel's WordPerfect while most people in the free world have switched to Microsoft Word.

WordPerfect has several advantages over Word, especially in the legal world. WordPerfect is a much easier program when it comes to making macros and templates for everyday use. Word requires a lot of VB work to accomplish the same tasks. It's a real pain...but, the consultants have recommended we switch because of our clients. So, that's going to happen for sure.

In all likelihood we will also be dumping Novell's Netware in favor of Microsoft. We'll get rid of Novell's Groupwise in favor of Outlook and setup some Exchange servers. It's going to be one heck of a transition...and costly at that. We're looking at taking a "fork lift" approach...which means we'll pick up our current servers, haul them out of the building and bring in all new servers, plug 'em in and go with it. Obviously, that will require a lot of behind-the-scenes work to get them ready because we can't afford much downtime, if any.

The final strategic plan is due this week...should be a hoot. I can guarantee the final price will hit 7-figures. I figure implementation will beging 2nd quarter of 2007. I may end up bringing a cot to work and just living here because it's going to be one heck of a busy year. I'll keep you posted on where we stand once it begins...should be an interesting transition.