Microsoft Patches Two Zero-Day Exploits, Leaves Two Untouched
by Alex Woodie

Microsoft yesterday released patches for two zero-day exploits, but left two other zero-days unpatched during its final Patch Tuesday of the year. While Microsoft addressed zero-day problems in Windows and Visual Studio 2005 and fixed another critical problem affecting IE versions 5 and 6, it failed to issue patches for two other recently discovered zero-day flaws that affect Word. All told, seven patches were released, fixing 11 vulnerabilities across a range of mostly client-side products.READ MORE >

Vista Will Boost IT Industry Revenues, Computer Costs
by Alex Woodie

Whenever a big new operating system comes along, it portends big changes to the IT ecosystem. In the case of Windows Vista, this means an infusion of revenue to IT vendors, to the tune of $70 billion next year, according to IDC. On the flip side, however, the inevitable feature creep and cycle bloat means businesses and consumers will plop down 20 percent more money for hardware upgrades to run Vista full tilt boogey, as compared to an XP machine, a recent analysis found. READ MORE >

Microsoft's New 'Voice Server' Enters Beta
by Alex Woodie

Microsoft this week announced the first round of beta testing for Office Communications Server 2007, the new "voice server" that will set the foundation for Microsoft's voice over IP (VoIP) strategy in the years to come. When Communications Server 2007 becomes available next year, it will bring some pretty cool capabilities, such as allowing users to launch a phone call from Office 2007 by clicking on a person's name, assigning a telephone call a "subject," like with e-mail, and accessing e-mail from a telephone. READ MORE >

The Top 10 Warning Signs You May Need a PSA Solution
by Joe Gulino

Knowing when and how to invest in growing a professional services organization is a challenge, particularly where a Professional Services Automation (PSA) solution is being considered. However, when a PSA solution is implemented correctly and in line with your business goals, it can rapidly enable the business to grow profitably, which is music to any CFO's ears. It is therefore imperative that CFOs are attuned to the warning signs that indicate when a PSA solution is required, whether for the first time or as an overhaul to their current solution. READ MORE >