Robert Ford

How many of you understand household heating systems? Specifically comprehend ones that provide hot water to pipes in your floor to produce radiant heat.

A few months ago I was assigned to the most unusual project ever. All the standard project management entities were there: the scope had to be estimated, followed by a detailed costing of fixed and ongoing costs with the usual identification of major milestones and personnel.

It is both humorous and frustrating to learn that no one believes in the Loch Ness Monster, Sasquatch or ASPs.

Business in the high-tech market was under pressure before the World Trade Center (WTC) towers were destroyed. We all are wondering how secure we are professionally and personally.

"Two CDs. One box. Three years." That's what I said to a consultant working with me as we left a client site for, perhaps, the last time.

I had an interesting conversation the other day that should strike fear in the hearts of IT workers. Be warned: the business people are becoming more than just a little miffed with us, and are going to take steps.

I was setting up a support agreement with a client the other day and had an epiphany. I realized I want to set up a help desk about as much as I want to withdraw my RRSP money in 50-dollar bills and set it on fire inside my house.

This column is dedicated to all senior directors and VPs, not just those in the IT industry. There seems to be an economic slowdown. Gosh, what a surprise.