The Predictions Are Way Off

Richard Lee on June 1, 2023

In the sales pitch for low-code and no-code development platforms at the Enterprise level, like Microsoft’s PowerPlatform, the presumption was that there would be a a shortage of developers requiring non-developers or cititzen developers to take matters into their own hands. And with these tools they would be able to develop robust software.

The prediction that there will be a shortage of developers is being challenged, in my opinion, with the advent of GPT and how that AI Technology is becoming embedded in integrated development environments (IDE) like Visual Studio Code and Github CopIlot AI.

Even if you were to use ChatGPT and asked it to write up HTML code to do something like create a contact form, it will generate it for you and allow you to copy the code and paste it to make that page more easily.

You can be a beginner developer, a pro developer or a non-developer and the benefits of having a “copilot” are enormous. In programming, there’s a concept of pair-programming, where two developers work together. Though I am not a developer, I practice pairing when working with customers as a project manager, and as a pair of stakeholders we can work meticulously to solve issues faster.

Presuming that AI doesn’t grow so out of control so quickly causing panic, pandemonium and a break down of trust and society, enormous good can come of having this level of assistance.

I use a fabulous cloud-based IVR (interactive voice response) platform called Twillo Studio. It’s a low code development platform for creating phone-based interactive solutions like press 1 for sales, press 2 to hear a dog bark. Using ChatGPT, I can ask it to provide the steps to make a voicemail solution and in seconds the answer appears before me. And if a step doesn’t work exactly as I thought it would, I can ask ChatGPT to assist me with that. It’s an ongoing dialog to drive toward a working solution.

I have been using off-shore developers, from India mostly, for over a decade. There are many more outfits there catering to US-based projects. AI and various forms of it as a programming co-pilot are going to have impact on the ones that ignore or don’t apply it to their practices.

I am approaching a maintenance phase of a 12-year old application that will benefit from AI as it involves refactoring which means that the code base written in an older programming language will be upgraded to the latest version. Without AI, these is a very tedious and manual effort that requires switching from user experience to the details of code. I imagine as I get closer to this phase that I will discover the perfect tools to assist with this and let my offshore team know of it. It means less billable hours for them but for myself and my client, it also means a faster path toward making the product more future proof.

When it comes to AI, I see the benefit of the tools being created for creation of text, code, images and sound. I am also keenly aware of the negative sides of it, including ChatGPT. I am staying on top of it all and keeping a public-facing journal of what I am ingesting to formulate my own opinions. Here’s that page in case you are interested: https://www.pillarsupport.com/ai/

Not since the 1980’s when I put aside one hobby to embrace the personal computer as a new hobby have I have been excited and unsure of the future, and amazed at how rapidly it’s all changing and going to change even further.

Digital Transformation: What It Is and How B2B Evolution Can Help

Richard Lee on March 29, 2023

The concept of digital transformation is not new, but it is increasingly important in today’s business world. Simply put, digital transformation is the process of using digital technology to fundamentally change the way a business operates and delivers value to customers. This can involve everything from improving operational efficiency to creating new revenue streams by leveraging technology.

At B2B Evolution, we have made it our mission to help companies with their digital transformation journey. Our B2B solution is designed to provide a comprehensive set of tools and services that can help businesses of all sizes navigate the complex world of digital transformation. And leading the charge is Richard Lee, a seasoned technology executive with decades of experience across three companies, including a stint at Microsoft.

At its core, B2B Evolution is about providing companies with the guidance, tools, and expertise they need to make the most of digital transformation. We understand that no two companies are the same, and that the challenges and pain points of digital transformation can vary significantly depending on the size and type of business. But regardless of these differences, the need for digital transformation is clear.

One of the biggest challenges of digital transformation is that it can be a difficult and costly process. Even if a company is willing to spend a significant amount of money on a solution, there is no guarantee that the development journey will be a smooth one. This is where B2B Evolution can help.

Our solution is designed to make digital transformation more accessible, affordable, and less daunting for businesses. With B2B Evolution, companies can benefit from a range of tools and services that can help them streamline their operations, enhance their customer engagement, and improve their overall performance. These tools and services include:

  • Business consulting and strategy development: Our team of experts can work with companies to identify their unique digital transformation needs and develop a customized plan for implementation.
  • IT consulting and technology implementation: We can help companies with the technical aspects of digital transformation, from software development and implementation to cloud migration and data management.
  • Customer relationship management (CRM): Our CRM solutions are designed to help businesses enhance their customer engagement and improve their customer experience.
  • Business process automation: Our automation tools can help businesses improve their operational efficiency and reduce costs by automating routine tasks and processes.

The benefits of digital transformation are clear: increased efficiency, improved customer experience, and new revenue streams. But getting there can be a challenge. With B2B Evolution, we aim to make the journey as smooth and cost-effective as possible. And with Richard Lee at the helm, we have the expertise and experience to help businesses of all sizes achieve their digital transformation goals.

In conclusion, digital transformation is a crucial process for any business that wants to stay competitive and relevant in today’s rapidly changing technological landscape. But it can be a challenging and costly journey. At B2B Evolution, we understand these challenges and are committed to providing businesses with the tools and services they need to succeed. With Richard Lee leading the charge, we are confident that our solution can help businesses of all sizes achieve their digital transformation goals.

B2B Evolution is another service from PILLAR.

The Psychology of Switching IT Support Providers: Trusting Your Gut

Richard Lee on March 13, 2023

Switching vendors can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to your IT support provider. You’ve likely invested a significant amount of time and money into your current vendor, and the idea of starting over can be overwhelming. However, sometimes it’s necessary to move on and find a vendor that better aligns with your needs and values.

One of the most important things to consider when selecting an IT support vendor is their attitude and professionalism. Your IT support provider should be polite, professional, and have expertise without arrogance. They should be willing to listen to your concerns and provide solutions that work for you. They shouldn’t talk down to you or yell at you, and they should always be willing to give you your login information upon request.

Putting up with an IT provider with a bad attitude can tear down your spirit and create a toxic work environment. If your gut is suggesting that you should leave this person, know that there are greener pastures out there. Trusting your gut can be difficult, but it’s important to listen to your instincts when it comes to choosing a vendor that will support your business’s success.

At our IT support service, we pride ourselves on being polite, professional, and friendly with our clients. We understand that technology can be complicated, and we’re here to help make it simple for you. Our commitment to excellent customer service has earned us stellar references from our satisfied clients.

If you’re looking for a new IT support provider, we’d be honored to be your choice. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support your business’s technology needs. Trust us to be the IT support vendor you deserve.

The Essential IT Checklist for Opening a Branch Office

Richard Lee on February 19, 2023

Opening a new branch office can be both exciting and challenging for any business. However, it requires careful planning and execution to ensure a smooth transition and minimize disruptions to your operations. One crucial aspect of this planning is ensuring that your IT infrastructure is ready for optimal usage. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive IT checklist to help you prepare for opening a new branch office.

  1. Internet Connectivity Having a stable and reliable internet connection is critical for any business. Therefore, your new office should be equipped with high-speed internet that can support your business needs.
  2. Network Infrastructure Ensure that the network infrastructure is set up correctly, including the installation of switches, routers, firewalls, and other necessary network components. You may also want to consider implementing a virtual private network (VPN) to secure data transmission between your new branch office and your main office.
  3. Computers and Peripherals You will need to provide your staff with computers, monitors, keyboards, and mice to work effectively. Ensure that the hardware is compatible with your software and systems.
  4. Software and Applications Ensure that your software and applications are installed and set up correctly, and licenses are up to date. Ensure that all necessary software is installed, including antivirus, firewalls, and productivity tools.
  5. Email and Collaboration Tools Email is an essential communication tool for any business. Ensure that email accounts are set up and ready to go. You may also want to consider collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or Zoom to facilitate communication and collaboration among your staff.
  6. Backup and Disaster Recovery Ensure that your new office has a backup and disaster recovery plan in place. This includes regular backups of your data, as well as a plan for recovering lost data in the event of a disaster.
  7. Security and Access Control Ensure that your new office is secure and access to sensitive data is restricted to authorized personnel only. This includes physical security measures like locks, access control systems, and surveillance cameras, as well as cybersecurity measures like firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection systems.

In conclusion, opening a new branch office requires careful planning and execution, and ensuring that your IT infrastructure is ready is critical to the success of the new office. By following this IT checklist, you can minimize disruptions to your operations, ensure a smooth transition, and improve your chances of success. At our IT support business, we can help you with all your IT needs for your new branch office.

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Switch vs Router: Understanding the Difference

Richard Lee on February 18, 2023

For those who are new to networking, the terms “switch” and “router” may seem interchangeable, but they are actually two distinct types of devices. While both are used to connect devices on a network, there are key differences between them. In this article, we will explore the differences between switches and routers.

Switches and routers are both used in local area networks (LANs) to connect devices, but they function differently. Switches are used to connect devices to a network, while routers are used to connect networks to each other.

A switch is a device that allows multiple devices to connect and communicate with each other on a local network. It acts as a central hub that connects all the devices on a network, enabling them to share resources and communicate with each other. A switch operates at the data link layer (layer 2) of the OSI model, which means that it uses MAC addresses to direct traffic between devices on a network.

On the other hand, a router is a device that connects multiple networks together, enabling devices on one network to communicate with devices on another network. A router operates at the network layer (layer 3) of the OSI model, which means that it uses IP addresses to route traffic between different networks. Routers are often used to connect a local network to the internet, as they can translate between the local IP addresses used on the LAN and the public IP addresses used on the internet.

In summary, switches are used to connect devices on a local network, while routers are used to connect multiple networks together. While both devices may look similar on the outside, they perform different functions and are designed for different purposes.

In conclusion, understanding the differences between switches and routers is essential for building and maintaining a network. By knowing the role that each device plays in a network, you can make informed decisions about which devices to use to meet your specific needs.

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Are Antivirus Software Programs Still Relevant Today?

Richard Lee on February 17, 2023

For decades, antivirus software has been a critical component of computer security. These programs were designed to protect against the ever-growing number of viruses and malware that could infect your computer and cause serious damage. But with new threats emerging every day, and the rise of newer and more sophisticated cyberattacks, some are questioning whether antivirus software is still relevant in today’s world. In this post, we’ll explore the history of antivirus software, and whether it still has a place in modern computer security.

First, let’s look at the history of antivirus software. In the early days of computing, viruses were relatively simple and easy to detect. Antivirus software was able to keep up with the latest threats by scanning files and programs for known virus signatures. But as the internet became more ubiquitous, and threats became more complex, antivirus software had to evolve to keep up. Today’s antivirus software programs use a variety of techniques, including behavioral analysis and machine learning, to detect and block threats in real-time.

But despite these advancements, some argue that antivirus software is no longer effective against the latest threats. For example, many malware programs are designed to evade detection by traditional antivirus software, by using techniques such as encryption, polymorphism, and obfuscation. And while behavioral analysis and machine learning can be effective in detecting unknown threats, they are not foolproof, and can sometimes generate false positives.

So, does this mean that antivirus software is no longer relevant today? Not necessarily. While it may not be the silver bullet that it once was, antivirus software is still an important component of a comprehensive computer security strategy. It can still detect and block many types of malware, and can provide a valuable layer of protection against known threats. Additionally, some antivirus programs offer additional features, such as firewall protection and password management, that can further enhance your computer security.

Ultimately, the effectiveness of antivirus software depends on how it is used, and the context in which it is employed. It is not a substitute for good online behavior, such as avoiding suspicious emails and websites, and keeping your operating system and software up to date. But when used in combination with these best practices, antivirus software can still provide a valuable layer of protection against many types of threats.

In conclusion, while antivirus software may not be as effective as it once was, it is still an important component of a comprehensive computer security strategy. It can detect and block many types of malware, and provide additional features that can enhance your security. So, if you’re not already using antivirus software, it’s worth considering as part of your overall computer security plan.

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Why WP Engine is the Only Hosting Solution You Need for Your WordPress Site

Richard Lee on February 16, 2023

As a website owner, you understand how important it is to have a reliable and efficient hosting provider. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your website. However, if you have a WordPress site, WP Engine is the only hosting solution you’ll ever need.

What sets WP Engine apart from other hosting providers is that it’s specifically designed for WordPress sites. This means that WP Engine has a deep understanding of WordPress and its various components, and can provide specialized services to optimize your website’s performance.

One of the key benefits of WP Engine is their ability to scan for vulnerable plugins that can cause issues with your site’s security and performance. WP Engine’s experts will also provide advice and guidance on which plugins to use and which to avoid, ensuring that your site remains secure and fast.

In addition, WP Engine provides different types of environments beyond production, such as development and staging environments. These additional environments are crucial for testing and making changes to your site before they go live.

But what really sets WP Engine apart is their ability to roll back changes in case of emergencies. If you accidentally delete an essential plugin or make a change that breaks your site, you can choose a restore point to return to. This feature allows you to travel back in time and fix any mistakes you’ve made.

In conclusion, if you have a WordPress site, WP Engine is the only hosting solution you’ll ever need. With their specialized services, expert guidance, and emergency features, WP Engine ensures that your website remains secure, fast, and efficient.

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How Google My Business and Bing for Business Can Help Keep Your Business Information Up-to-Date

Richard Lee on February 16, 2023

Keeping your business information up-to-date is crucial for both new and existing customers to find and contact your business. Fortunately, there are free tools available to make this process simple and efficient: Google My Business and Bing for Business.

Google My Business and Bing for Business are online platforms that allow business owners to update their business information such as address, phone number, hours of operation, and other relevant details. This information is then displayed on Google and Bing search results, as well as on Google Maps and Bing Maps.

With these tools, you can quickly make changes to your business information, which is especially important if you’ve recently moved or changed your phone number. By updating your information, you can ensure that your customers can easily find you and contact you.

One of the benefits of using Google My Business and Bing for Business is that they allow you to provide detailed information about your business, such as your products or services, photos, and reviews. This can help attract new customers and increase your online presence.

Another benefit is that you can use these tools to track insights and analytics about your business, such as the number of clicks, calls, and direction requests your business receives. This information can help you understand how customers are interacting with your business and adjust your strategy accordingly.

In conclusion, using Google My Business and Bing for Business can make updating your business information easy and efficient. By keeping your information up-to-date and providing detailed information about your business, you can attract new customers and improve your online presence.

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Securing Your Network: The Benefits of Firewalls Explained

Richard Lee on February 15, 2023

Firewalls are an essential part of any cybersecurity strategy, providing a line of defense between your network and the outside world. They act as a filter, monitoring and controlling the traffic that flows in and out of your network. There are two main types of firewalls: software and hardware.

Software firewalls are applications that are installed on individual computers or servers. They monitor and control traffic that is specific to that device. Software firewalls are an effective way to protect individual devices from malware and other threats, but they are not suitable for protecting an entire network.

Hardware firewalls, on the other hand, are devices that are installed at the network perimeter. They are designed to protect the entire network, and they are more robust than software firewalls. Hardware firewalls are an effective way to protect against a range of threats, including malware, viruses, and cyberattacks.

One of the main benefits of firewalls is that they provide an additional layer of security to your network. They help to prevent unauthorized access to your network, which can help to protect your sensitive data and assets. They can also help to prevent malicious software from infiltrating your network and causing damage.

Another benefit of firewalls is that they can help to improve network performance. By filtering out unwanted traffic and limiting access to certain websites and applications, firewalls can help to reduce the amount of data that is transmitted across your network. This can help to reduce network congestion and improve overall performance.

In addition, firewalls can help to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Many industries, such as healthcare and finance, are required to meet certain security and privacy standards. By implementing firewalls, businesses can help to ensure that they meet these requirements and avoid potential fines and penalties.

In conclusion, firewalls are an essential part of any cybersecurity strategy. Whether you choose a software or hardware firewall, they provide an additional layer of security to your network and help to prevent a range of threats. By improving network performance and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, firewalls can help to protect your business and your sensitive data.

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Why Microsoft Teams is the Ultimate Screen Sharing and Collaboration Tool

Richard Lee on February 14, 2023

n today’s remote work environment, screen sharing and collaboration tools have become essential for keeping teams connected and productive. While there are many options out there, Microsoft Teams stands out as one of the best, offering a wide range of features that make it the ultimate choice for screen sharing and collaboration.

  1. Emoji Reactions and Chat Messages

One of the standout features of Microsoft Teams is the ability to share emoji reactions and respond to specific messages in the chat during a presentation or meeting. This allows participants to provide feedback or show agreement without interrupting the flow of the meeting. Additionally, chat messages can be used to ask questions or provide additional context without disrupting the presenter, making for a smoother, more engaging meeting experience.

  1. Easy Recording and Access

Microsoft Teams makes it incredibly easy to record meetings and access them later. All recorded meetings are automatically saved to the user’s calendar, making them easy to find and review at a later time. Additionally, Teams allows for different team channels to be added, where all meeting recordings, transcripts, files and even additional add-ons can be stored, making them accessible to everyone who needs them.

  1. Wide Range of Integrations

Another reason that Microsoft Teams is so powerful is the wide range of integrations it offers with other tools and services. For example, you can integrate Microsoft Teams with other Microsoft applications like OneNote, SharePoint, and Outlook, as well as third-party tools like Trello, Asana, and GitHub. This makes it easy to streamline your workflow and keep all of your important information in one place.

  1. Customizable Team Channels

Microsoft Teams allows for highly customizable team channels, where you can add specific team members, share files and collaborate on projects. Each channel can be customized with its own settings, tabs, and even bots. This makes it easy to organize your work and collaborate with your team in a more efficient way.

In conclusion, Microsoft Teams is the ultimate screen sharing and collaboration tool due to its powerful features like emoji reactions, chat messages, easy recording and access to meetings, a wide range of integrations, and customizable team channels. By utilizing Microsoft Teams, teams can work together more seamlessly and efficiently, making remote work more productive and effective than ever before.

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