Steganography: First Experience

I had a good time playing around with s-tools and working with steganography. I think that it is a valuable program. The program was very easy to use. The index of help topics was very comprehensive and guided me through every step of the process. I liked how the program is organized very simply with few options other than embedding files in images. It's sometimes overwhelming to start working with a new software program when you are bombarded with endless buttons, tool bars, and drop-down menus. The one thing I thought was difficult was exporting a picture that had hidden information and getting it to act like a normal jpeg image. I wasn't able to get an exported picture to show in the viewer.

I did struggle initially with how s-tools could be incorporated into the workplace. I think this is because the directions to the s-tools program refer to "the enemy" that will most likely exploit all our information if we don't use s-tools to hide it. When first coming in contact with steganography, it's easier to see how it would be used to be deceptive and secretive, rather than using it ethically as a tool in the workplace. As a facilities manager I think steganography would be more applicable depending on the type of work you manage. For example, companies that are all based on a intranet system where information can be shared freely and safely would probably not need to use steganography. However, there are some companies that need to share data with those who are not in their own network. In this case steganography would be a good choice. I'm glad to know the option is there and if needed I could utilize the capabilities of steganography.

VEKTR: First Experience

This was my first experience with any type of work order system. Overall, I had a good impression of the software. I think the VEKTR software is thorough and easy to use. I liked the set-up of the program. Everything seemed to be very straight-forward and user friendly. I was able to easily navigate through the different functions and I was never left searching to find a particular function. I did think that the method of inputting new work orders and inspections seemed to be tedious and difficult to move through. I realize they need to be thorough, but it seems the process overall could be easier. This was one of the things that I didn't like. I don't have anything to compare this to, but I thought the new work orders could be more user friendly.

As a facilities manager I would use VEKTR as the method to get information regarding work orders to those who will complete the work. Information would always be complete with correct expectations given and a deadline. I could definitely use the software as a way to keep organized and to prevent miscommunication. Also, the software would aid in getting work orders done in a timely manner. I would recommend VEKTR to others because it's the best I've seen, in terms of this type of software. It would definitely beat any type of paper system.

iDashboards

I selected iDashboards as my technology. I chose it because it is simple, yet it performs a very valuable service to the customer. I thought the website was well done and provide useful information on implementation and how the service can be catered to specific needs. Overall, I should be able to gather enough info to give a presentation on how this program works and the value that it provides.

3 Technologies

1. AxisFM by AxisPointe: Basically this is a web-based system that has been developed that simplifies capitol planning, space and work management and eliminates the need for ongoing facility condition assessments. In short, it organizes massive amounts of information and enables facility professionals to make good decisions. AxisFM is divided into 4 markets: A) Airports, B) Government, C) Higher Education, and D) Commercial Real Estate. The website states that "Our customers have experienced a 15-30% savings in maintenance & operation expense, a reduction of 20-100% of their deferred maintenance, and a 10-33% reduction in capital replacement costs." I believe this would be an interesting innovation to study and review, particularly to find out the mechanics of how the technology was put together and how it is integrated into an organization.

www.axispointe.com


2. iDashboards: This again is a software that takes massive amounts of information and organizes it and gives it greater value to those who need it. iDashboards deals specifically with key performance indicators. The software uploads the latest data from a company, which could be anything from call centers, to sales or marketing or supply chain, and gives a very user-friendly summary of the data. The website tells about a case study in which Navy Federal Credit Union started using the software. They were given a real time view of KPI's and alerts when thresholds were being exceeded. Overall, response time has greatly decreased because the credit union can take immediate action. I believe this would be interesting to research further because it is a simple idea, but adds a huge amount of value to a company or organization.

www.idashboards.com

3. Candelis Healthcare Technologies: One of the main products of Candelis is called ImageGrid. It is basically a software that manages digital images for radiologists. It is known as a PACS system (Picture Archiving Computer System). Some of the main problems that health care professionals face include the fact that PACS systems are expensive, overly complex, and require additional staffing and management just to take care of the system. Candelis has therefore developed ImageGrid RIS. ImageGrid provides cost effective storage from 1 to tens of terabytes. It is also designed for easy implementation and easy upkeep. Radiologists and staff can better manage and access patient data because it is based on the organization's network. I believe this would be interesting to research because of my interest in health care.

www.candelis.com