Microsoft Technet - 40% off code

Straight from Server 2008 launch events a 40% off code for Technet.
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TMSAML06
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http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/subscriptions/bb892754.aspx

Voice Based Search Tool for BlackBerry from Microsoft

Tellme, a Microsoft company, has released a pretty cool application for BlackBerry Devices. It is a voice based search tool that provides GPS directions, maps, traffic information, movies weather and more. You can simply say "coffee" and it will find you the closest coffee shop and provide you with directions to get there.

It is available for the BlackBerry Pearl (8100), the 8800, 8820, 8830 and the Curve (8310). Phones without GPS are not supported, obviously. Be sure you have an unlimited data plan too.

This program can not replace provider GPS (TeleNav for AT&T) but it is very nice. In order to make this a full 'hands-free' service they will need to add moving GPS mapping as you drive and turn by turn audio alerts . But all in all I can sure see its use.

Microsoft Certifications – Yesterday, Today, & Tomorrow

Yesterday… A Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) is probably the most desired vendor specific certification there is. This training and certification track introduces a person to information needed to manage Microsoft’s operating systems and networks. The certification is very valuable and a must have for any resume.

Today… The MCSE has lost a lot of its value. There are hundreds of thousands of MCSE’s out there and sadly most of them do not deserve nor have they earned the right to display those initials after their name. These hacks are known to many as “paper MCSE’s”. They have downloaded copies of “Actual Tests” from sources on the internet and used them to memorize the content and become “TestKing”s. Using these aids as a primary means to pass this, or any exam is cheating. It is because of this that a certification that was once very valuable in the IT world has been blemished.

Tomorrow… With the initial introduction of Microsoft Certified Information Technology Specialist (MCITP) which is the replacement for MCSE, Microsoft announced it would take steps to weed out these paper MCSE’s and re-gain credibility for their examinations. They stated that they would require a certification refresh for all exams at the MCITP level and higher every three years. Microsoft has now announced that they will NOT be sticking to their refresh schedule and will simply retire the certifications once the material is no longer supported. Basically this means that Microsoft has dropped the virtual ball on regaining the integrity that their certification once had. Unless they are changing tests every other day, the paper MCITP’s will remain and those who “earn” their certification will still be grouped in with them. This is very unfortunate. Microsoft should have at a very least followed through with their refresh plan. They should have taken further steps to require continuing education and random audits.

RollnPC