Class 3/5

It was interesting see IBM's 5 in 5.  I have seen similar articles in many publications lately.  For example, Business Week has the 20 Most Important Inventions of the Next 10 Years.  As in IBM's list, BW includes technologies that streamline human / computer communication.  In this case it allowing the body's energy to charge devices.  However most of the innovation differ which is great to see.  Check it out: www.businessweek.com/innovate/content/feb2009/id20090225_287985.htm?chan=innovation_innovation+%2B+design_top+stories

Throughout this quarter, examples have been given of smart infrastructure.  This has included smart parking systems, notifying drivers when and where empty parking spots are.  Such innovations make routine tasks such as parking more efficient, saving consumer time and gas spend in addition to reducing carbon emissions.  Smart grid technology is currently being developed which will alter use of conventional civic infrastructure, offering consumers more efficient means of energy distribution and transmission.  And, did you know that right here in our backyard, we have the smartest bridge in the country, the 35W bridge.  The bridge is embedded with sensor technology to detect structural stress & monitor vibration.  As well the bridge's sprinkler system automatically de-ices the roadway when ice is detected.  Here is an article about the bridge's technology and new business opportunities in smart infrastructure: 

www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/09_09/b4121042656141.htm?chan=innovation_architecture_top+stories 

Class 3/2

The discussion on security was very frightening, particularly if there is really nothing one can do to protect themselves against hackers or theft.  While I realize there are several thing one can to protect themselves, a computer / internet user is never bulletproof or truly safe.  Furthermore, doing the most to protect yourself from hackers & theft requires incredible time and effort.  This is certainly a new reality for cultures now wholly dependent on networked communication.  Given that one can never truly be safe, I wonder how much effort is worth putting in to protect oneself. 

I was glad that class on Tuesday ended on a more uplifting note with Oscar presenting his experience with SOA at his former job.  This example certainly clarified the concept.  It was also great to learn more about my classmate's experience.   Oscar's presentation was interesting, well planned and very clear.  I really appreciated this opportunity.  

Class 2/24

The discussion about Facebook and its struggle for profitability was incredibly interesting. Given the impact the site has had on culture and its membership that spans generations, it is puzzling how this does not necessarily translate into business success. A wildly popular innovation that connects people in a new ways, reaching mass user-ship faster than the most notable technologies of our recent past, it is amazing that the company lacks a compelling business model. While both technology and business in this case drove innovation, Facebook illustrates that the successful combination of the two does not necessarily lead to a successful business. Viable business models for new technologies are thus a critical consideration in bringing innovations to market.

So what does Facebook 3.0 look like? Will I be able to locate my friends on a map on my iphone? Will my phone then give my car directions to drive to meet them? Will it know the fastest way and automatically route me away from traffic or accidents? Will it be able to link my schedule with that of my friends to figure out when we can have plans and then check my favorite resturants for avialablity and make a reservation for me? It is amazing to consider the possibilities for the next iteration of our current tools. Flexibility, adaptablilty, nibleness and continuous learning are certainly essential to keep up increasingly rapidly evolving technologies...