Project Big-Cloud delivers!

Phew, what a whirlwind 12 months we've had at i-BR!  We've undertaken what is probably our biggest ever development project, 'Project Big-Cloud'.  This has seen a major redevelopment of i-BR's Quick-Recruit system being undertaken. A large-scale project over 12 months from initial inception to final delivery.  It has though delivered our initial objectives.

As a recap, these objectives have been:

1. Continue to provide a Cloud Based recruitment system that fully integrates business processes from front to back-office.  But, where each part of the system can be used on a modular basis as required by clients so the system can be used and evolved to suit their changing business needs.

2. Converting to flexible internet technology that allows access by Candidates and Clients to specific parts of your business processes, such as Online Timesheets, online Payslip access, online Invoice access for Clients, as well as Vendor Management Solutions (VMS) capabilities.

3.Providing a system interface utilising modern Internet components that provide the features of PC software, but with the flexibility and benefits of Internet Software.

With the delivery of our key aims, Quick-Recruit now has the capabilities to be a central hub for any Recruitment business.  Allowing access by all parties (Consultants, Candidates, and Clients) across your business processes.  Integrating these into one Cloud-Based system to provide effeciency and cost reduction.

Quick-Recruit, your central, software hub for your business

Project Big-Cloud, original Preview video

Project Big-Cloud has been a large-scale and challenging project, but one that we hope will deliver extensive benefits to our clients (both existing and new ones) going forward.

With the major functional developments achieved, for the remainder of 2012 we'll only be doing some low-levels of small developments that may be requested by clients as we consolidate the new system. Our key focus now will however be on some behind-the-scenes improvements that:

a) Develops new pricing ad billing processes to reflect the flexibility of modular access and give flexible and easy billing for clients.  These prices will however continue with our strategy of delivering cost-effective access to modern systems for SME's.

c) Technical system hosting enhancements.  We're working right now on exploring hosting f our systems directly with Microsoft. This move is aimed at helping us to continue to provide low costs to clients, plus give the continued reassurance of system security and reliance provided from Microsoft's Azure hosting facilities.

We'll keep you updated as things progress.

Project Big Cloud, preview video

Last month we announced 'Project Big Cloud', and briefly mentioned the exciting new features we are bringing to Quick-Recruit.

We can now give you a sneak preview slideshow video giving a taster of some of the new screens and functions that are coming soon. Note: When playing the video it's best played in full screen.



We'll be following up over the next month or so wth some videos of the new software in action. But if you have any questions before then, just let us know.

The Internet connects to.... itself?

So, we've been told, and most of us see, we live in a connected Internet world.  We're growing used to connecting to each other through work, social media, and home life.  But, CISCO have revealed some interesting stats that show, and forecast, the Internet is becoming more of a connection to things than people.  They have produced an excellent Infographic to illustrate this.

In 2008 the number of devices connected to the Internet was more than the number of people that are on Earth to use them.  This is set to grow, and by 2020 there will be a forecast 50 Billion devices connected to the Internet.  These 'things' are not just smartphones, PC's and Tablets - but independent machines that connect to the Internet and each other.

It makes interesting reading.  It does of course stress that the Internet is today's technology for work and home, but also asks the question that with an even more connected future how will we prepare for this?

Project Big Cloud

It's been a while since my last post, so much is going on that I've had to take a break from blogging to focus on some exciting and major business & product developments for i-Business Resources.   I'll be bringing you more news on all of these soon, but for now here's a quick update on new software developments - codenamed 'Project Big Cloud'.

Currently due for release in September, our current development project (known as ‘Big Cloud’) is set to deliver to the UK recruitment market an up-dated system interface for Quick-Recruit (the Cloud based Recruitment Enterprise Management solution), as well as a new module, functions and features.

Project ‘Big-Cloud’ builds on the existing web-based technology behind i-BR's Quick-Recruit software, and the already integrated front to back-office solution.  Quick-Recruit will provide improved designs for an enhanced user experience, integrated Compliance management functions (including Working Time Regulations compliance), and much more.  

New modules will also provide the ability for Agency’s to give their client's web-based access to their system for a range of services.  These will include Vacancy/Application management, Timesheet approval, and on-line Invoices.  This delivers software that leverages the power of the Internet Cloud to bring parties in the recruitment process together into one big software solution.    

As part of Project Big Cloud we'll also be extending support of Quick-Recruit to browsers running on Tablets and other mobile devices. No need for special Apps, you will get the full system available to you through your devices web browser.

We are all very excited at i-BR about project Big Cloud.  We'll be announcing the full content of the new upgrade soon, and also providing a sneak preview at the new software for any Agency looking at moving to a modern cloud-based solution.

Tablet Technology (and why this is important for the recruitment industry)

The Consumer Electronics Show kicked off this week in Las Vegas, this key diary event for the technology industry gives us a pointer as to what technology providers feel will be the big news and trends in 2011.  Tablets it seems are this years hot news with launches by manufacturers such as Vizio, Toshiba (see video below showing their new Tablet), Motorola, LG, Dell, and Microsoft.

In addition to these new launches, we already have the publicised launch of the Blackberry Playbook and Apple is expected to be launching a new version of the iPad during 2011.  The Samsung Galaxy Tab is already launched and in the build up to Christmas we have seen price cutting making this an affordable device.  This will probably help ensure the early high prices for Tablets will fall and make these affordable and much more attractive devices for users during 2011.



However, perhaps even more important is the new software launches that are going hand-hand with the hardware developments.  Google for instance have announced the launch of their new Android 3.0 operating system (Honeycomb).

Developed specifically with Tablets and their larger screens in mind, the developments are pulling operating systems from their Smartphone routes to become alternatives to PC operating systems such as Microsoft Windows.  At the same time, Microsoft launched Windows Phone 7 in 2010.  This is now running on Tablets as an alternative (or complimentary to, depending on your view point) to laptop use running Windows 7.



If this focus by manufacturers and software developers is anything to go by, Tablets and the continued growth of mobile technology are indeed the big news for 2011. 

So aren't Tablets just big Smartphones?

Tablet technology has grown from the developments in hardware, software, and mobile broadband technology that already exists for Smartphones.  But, Tablets represent more than only an up-sizing of existing Smartphones.  What we see now are two things.

Firstly, a convergence of Laptop and Smartphone technology is happening.  This convergence gives us extremely portable, but extremely useable, devices that will make mobile technology use even more widespread.  Already over 50% of people (and growing) now have Smartphones, and the adoption of Tablets will see more people using mobile technology but in richer and wider ways.

Secondly, the rise of viable alternative operating systems to Windows signals an end to the PC/ Microsoft Windows dominance in how we use technology.  This is not to say PC use and Windows are dead, more that we will now see a more fragmented market with different people preferring to use different types of devices and operating systems for both business and personal use.

Why is this important to the Recruitment Industry?

We've already seen a migration of recruitment activity to the Internet environment as recruiters seek out Candidates through Social Media channels.  These strategies are set to continue, but perhaps in slightly different ways, as more and more users interact with information and other people through the Internet as mobile communications become easier and more convenient.

However, as Candidates become more used to mobile interaction with information this will inevitably also lead to increased demands for access to information such as Interview and Assignment details, Online Timesheets, and Payslips etc.  It won't only be online recruitment strategies therefore that are required, online service strategies will also become important for Agencies and recruiters.

In the same way as Candidates will be seeking mobile services, Employers and Recruitment Agency personnel will also be wishing to access mobile services to interact with each other.  This again requires agencies to develop Internet cloud strategies for how these will be delivered and to address the needs for office based access, mobile, and home working.

With these changes in user behaviour and expectations we should not overlook the IT strategies and policies of a business.  In the past it was simple, your company supplied the PC and defined the software to run and use.  With the fragmentation of the software market this will not be either a practical solution or desirable.

Users will develop different preferences and even emotional attachments to different devices running different operating systems.  The hardware/software strategies and IT policies for a recruitment business therefore will need to reflect these changes and, at the same time, encompass end users outside of your own company who will be accessing your systems and services as well.

The mobile future:

Tablets are the hot news amongst the IT industry for 2011.  The convergence of hardware, software, and broadband access for mobile communications is delivering to us devices that expand and enrich mobile communications and information access for all of us.

It is important to not underestimate the speed and potential social changes that come hand-in-hand with technology developments.  We all need to be ready for them and address strategies to help us both exploit potential and also meet customer demands.  There are solutions for this, but the first step is to recognise the potential changes and start planning for them.

Tablets are a significant development, however don't expect this to be the end point for how our mobile communications develop.  Below is a video from Microsoft showing a future view of how our communications use might develop.

This is of course only one view, but whichever direction we go one thing is for certain - mobile working and communications is set to grow, and this will happen quicker and in perhaps different ways than many of us at present can visualise.

Top 5 benefits of Cloud Computing

Having worked on providing Internet Solutions for over 10 years I know these are now the most appropriate solution for any SME.  I can though sometimes take for granted that everyone else knows this, but of course this isn't the case and I am reminded of this from time to time when networking with SME business owners.

If you are still considering moving to Cloud Computing solutions for your business but aren't sure of whether to make the move, I've outlined below a summary of why Cloud Computing will benefit your business.

The old way

Running a business has in the past involved the set-up of a server to run software and store data, and then a network connecting users to the server within each branch/location. The server ran separate front and back office software, emails, and any shared documents were stored on the server.  This is called Client/Server technology.  It may be something you remember, or indeed this may still be what you do?

This solution was complex and costly and meant:

• Sharing data between branches (or people at home or on client sites) was impossible without complex and costly IT solutions.  This created problems in accessing/sharing information, and led to rework when transferring data between separate systems and locations - causing errors, admin overheads, and effecting customer service.

• Expensive IT staff and suppliers were needed to set-up and manage the infrastructure.  The detail of the technology wasn't something most business owners could hope to understand so they had to reply on 'specialists' to tell them what they had to spend on infrastructure.  This could make you feel you were not in control.

• Large licence fees were required by software companies (but you still had to manage the upgrades and back-ups yourself, and pay ongoing 'maintenance' fees). These costs meant using high quality software was not always within a business's reach.

• There were risks to the business to be managed should the server stop working and/or software break.  These risks could potentially cripple a business unless costly Disaster Recovery arrangements were in place.

• Management headaches were created with the need to deal with different IT hardware and software suppliers to keep it all running.

The new modern and simple way

‘Cloud Computing’ solutions have now become an established way for businesses, particularly SME’s, to manage their IT solutions.  They remove the problems with the old way of running systems on a Client/Server basis and provide additional benefits.

With Cloud Computing solutions the IT systems and services needed by a business are provided through the Internet by specialist suppliers. These suppliers manage all of the complex IT infrastructure for you, as well as your software back-ups, maintenance, and upgrades.  All you need to manage is an Internet Connection.... That's it!

There are many reasons I could give as to why every Agency should be moving to Cloud Computing, however my top 5 reasons are:

1. Lower your IT costs - low implementation fees for Cloud solutions mean they are accessible to all businesses.  You will typically only pay an affordable monthly hosting and support fee per user.  This gives predictable costs which are lower than the cost of buying, running, and maintaining a Client/Server infrastructure (and with no unexpected bills).
2. Give immediate sharing of data and software services between locations - Access to your business systems is through an Internet browser, giving you access between branches, at home, or on the road wherever you have an Internet connection.  As well as improving information sharing, this has the added benefit that new branches can be set-up easily and quickly giving you greater business flexibility.
3. Improve the management of risk for your business -  You don’t need to worry about what will happen if your server goes down or worry about loosing data.  Your business data is stored safely and securely within the specialist facilities of hosting companies.  With this security your Disaster Recovery plans are simply knowing where you can move to connect to the Internet if your the worst happened to your offices.
4. Reduce your management time on IT issues - With all of your software and data being managed for you, and with only the need to manage your Broadband connection, life becomes more simple.
   
5. Gain access to the latest software and services on the market, but without large costs - All of the latest software developments are ones developed for Cloud Computing.  Your software supplier can link into these, or you simply sign-up for new services you need, when you need them.

The benefits are clear and every SME should be looking to adopt a Cloud Strategy for their business if they haven't already done so.  See also 'Why the Internet Cloud' for more information.

If you are concerned that the move will be difficult, don't worry.  Implementing a simplified IT Infrastructure is also straight forward - but that is a subject for another blog post....

The battle in The Cloud heats up

Project Titan:

So, Facebook has launched the reported 'Gmail Killer', Project Titan.  And, much to my surprise, I find myself liking the concept.

Like many people my communications using my Smartphone/Tablet for mobile working have started to change the way I access communications.  Using different devices to access my information and communications both at home and when mobile.   However, with separate apps for Instant Messaging (IM), Email, and SMS, all with separate accounts and not interlinked, this can become a little messy.  Facebook's solution to this issue seems on the face of it an attractive proposition.

Facebook seem to have identified and addressed this issue and have come up with a potential solution. Forming these together into one messaging system that can handle different communication methods depending on peoples changing preferences and locations.  Of course, we'll have to wait and see whether Facebook deliver on the promises but there does seem to be great potential for their product.

The bigger picture:

Whilst the Facebook launch of project Titan is the main headline today, I'll leave the in-depth comment and analysis of the pro's and con's of their new application to others.

For me, this latest development from Facebook highlights a battle that has been going on for some time  In this battle there are no bullets or bombs involved, and nobody will die as a result of it.  But as with all wars this battle it is over the control of knowledge, information, economic power and the resulting profit.  It is something that will effect all of us, and yes that includes you!

The battle that is being played out in The Cloud is a battle for our data.  The theory is that in toady's world the company that controls the most data about the most people will dominate The Cloud and make the biggest profits.  Facebook's project Titan provides a solution to people's communication issues, but in return Facebook will be able to access more data generated by their 520 million+ users.

And the aim of this?  With control of data comes the increased ability to target advertising, and with better targeted advertising comes higher advertising revenues.  This is what the battle in The Cloud is primarily concerned with.

The company that succeeds in controlling the most data about the largest number of people, will become the business that benefits and profits most from the Internet Cloud.

Facebook and Google are currently the companies in the headlines locking horns with Google's removal of Gmail contact integration with Facebook ahead of the launch of Project Titan.  However, these are not the only new giants conducting The Cloud battle.

Amazon (with AWS), Salesforce.com, Microsoft (with Windows Azure) are all big players in Cloud Computing adding applications and beefing-up their hosting infrastructures.  Indeed, Facebook themselves have recently announced a $450 million project building a new data centre (presumably to handle the increased data traffic they hope to generate with Titan).  Let's not also forget LinkedIn and Twitter with their extensive network of users and accumulation of our data.

All of these players, together with rising stars that are no doubt out there that we're yet to hear about, are battling it out to dominate (or at least be part of) the shift that is happening with the technology we use migrating to Cloud platforms.

Who will win out we're yet to see.  The smart money is on the current big players, but a few years ago who would have predicted Google eclipsing Microsoft, and now Facebook aiming to do the same to Google.  The only certainty is that the world changes and it's notoriously difficult to predict who will win out in a technology world that leaps forward every couple of years.

Our challenges to protect our data:

So should we all be concerned about who has our data and stop using The Cloud to protect our privacy?  

I don't think so, and anyway this is probably not a rational reaction to any concerns we may have.  Technology has always evolved and creates Human history.  We can't take back what people already benefit from and utilise to such good effect (but of course sometimes bad effect as well!).  Also, we can't assume that any business wishing to benefit from our data is doing so for malicious purposes, I don't believe that by and large they have blatantly set out to do so.  However, the key points for us are two-fold.

Firstly, we all need to be aware as to why companies give us free (or low cost) services on the Internet.  It's not (with a few exceptions) out of a wish to do good, or just because they enjoy what they do (but of course both of these mostly apply).  It is in most instances so they can use the data we choose to share with them to make money in some way. 

We all need to remember this point when using Internet Cloud services and realise that in exchange for the services they give us, we are in many cases paying them with access to our personal data.  How much personal data we all share in payment is the decision we need to consciously make, and not to blindly behave as if what we put into Internet services isn't going to used for other purposes than the ones we intended.

Secondly, there is a role for governments and legislation.  Although I am in no way an advocate of government's controlling what we do and what we access, we do need to recognise that governments do have a role to play. 

To-date governments have been slow to react in an effective way to a changing world for data protection.  This is perhaps not a surprise when Internet data and services (by design) don't conform to the physical borders of countries.  The old ways governments could control information don't work effectively anymore, and people in any case don't want to be controlled by them.  It is the challenge therefore for governments of the world to recognise the new world of data that we live in and to ensure that globally we are both provided freedom but are also protected from unscrupulous use of our personal data where this may occur.  How this can be done is a huge challenge but one that can't be ignored. 

The battle in The Cloud will continue and there will be more and more inventive and technologically advanced ways businesses will employ to collect and profit from our data.  The one thing that is certain is that we can't ignore this issue, it isn't something that is going away any time soon if we, or governments, ignore it.