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Topic 1: Gartner’s Latest Hype Cycle – Emerging Technology
How can you use Gartner’s research in your business? Does it matter if truly useful changes are at least two years out?
Gartner Hype cycle graphic: https://www.techrepublic.com/article/gartner-identifies-3-themes-to-watch-for-in-emerging-technologies/
Topic 2: AI for Changing Accents
Is this cool? What are the best uses for it? And, as always, we dig into the ethical use of AI.
There are clearly some benefits for folks with hearing issues or rare spoken dialects. As always, good-vs-bad depends on what people do with the application.
Topic 3: Impact of Remote Collaboration on Business Travel
This topic will continue for quite a while. Here’s the latest from Bloomberg.
Remote communications and collaboration tools have been so successfully developed and deployed in the past 18 months that 84% of CEOs indicate they plan to spend significantly less on business travel going forward.
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Sponsor Note: Egnyte
Are you still using on-prem file servers and VPNs to share files with remote workers? Egnyte is a business class cloud sharing solution that works more like your on-prem server than other solutions. With a security first approach to file sharing and collaboration, Egnyte offers multiple options for sharing files and collecting files from outside sources. And do it all addressing data governance and compliance. Want to learn more? Check out https://Egnyte.com/msp, and when you do, tell them we sent you.
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Topic 1: Change the storage to change ransomware?
Can you create storage that cannot be changed? Is ransomware-free data storage possible . . . and right around the corner?
Related Link: https://www.protocol.com/newsletters/protocol-enterprise/cloud-storage-ransomware-zero-trust
Topic 2: Shadow IT: Is it Real? Not real?
Are you the shadow IT? Does it really just mean outsourced IT? And that leads us to ask, is the conversation about shadow IT really just a conversation for really large companies?
Related Link: https://www.protocol.com/newsletters/protocol-enterprise/saas-shadow-it-cio
Topic 3: A New Chip Cluster Will Make Massive AI Models Possible
Cerebras says its technology can run a neural network with 120 trillion connections—a hundred times what’s achievable today.
Related Link: https://www.wired.com/story/cerebras-chip-cluster-neural-networks-ai/
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Sponsor Memo: SBT Technology Community
This podcast is sponsored by the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community. Check us out at Small Biz Thoughts.org. Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start. Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free training, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere.
Plus, we have weekly live members-only Zoom calls. The average member saves more than 200% of their membership cost each year. We are totally dedicated to YOUR success. Just because you’re in business for yourself doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. Join us today at www.SmallBizThoughts.org.
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Topic 1: Apple Privacy Revisited
We talked about this last week. Well, so did everyone else.
Apple introduced a new technology to screen for child pornography . . . and a spirited debate has ensued. Last week the Killing IT guys weighed in on the topic and now we want to revisit the ongoing debate and address some of the concerns about the “slippery slope” and the “permission” to access data on personal devices. Including some new twists on CSAM Screening Technology.
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/08/11/technology/personaltech/iphone-update-sex-abuse.html
Topic 2: Evolution in Supply Chain Management
Toyota is famous for revolutionizing supply chain management, particularly with “Just-in-Time” inventory. Now, fifty years down the road, we’re finding that J-I-T had a lot of problems in the middle of the pandemic. Now, Toyota is responding again with a newer, more flexible approach to inventory. We look at supply chain issues generally, with a context of cars, chips, and toilet paper.
https://fortune.com/2021/08/02/toyota-cars-chip-shortage-semiconductors/
Topic 3: CRN Reports on Industry Trends
. . . But they’re headlines don’t align with their data. We were puzzled at the need to put extra energy into cheer-leading as compared to reporting the hard truth. We discuss.
Sponsor Memo: Acronis
Threats to client data constantly evolve, so your strategies must evolve too …but knowing where to get good guidance isn’t always easy. Well, nowhere will you hear more helpful insights from leading cyber protection experts than at the Acronis #CyberFitSummit. I’m going again –this year in-person, in Miami – and you should join me. Experts like Erick Simpson; Larry Walsh; and Acronis’ Amy Luby will show you how to boost profits, reduce risk, and improve your team’s productivity, as well as the latest cybersecurity strategies, technologies, and processes. In person and online. Learn more about the Acronis #CyberFit Summit World Tour at https://Acronis.events
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Topic 1: Drones.. May not be coming.
We’ve been ushering drones for years. But where are they? Why in the age of the drone advancing so slowly? Amazon is slowing things down a bit.
https://www.wired.co.uk/article/amazon-drone-delivery-prime-air
Topic 2: What should the penalty be for data misuse?
Data misuse is a growing topic. In addition to the recent Supreme Court case, we’re seeing companies make pre-emptive moves to make sure employees are not accessing data they have access to. This is a potentially huge issue for IT service providers. After all, we touch lots of client data, and our employees need to keep their eyes to themselves.
https://www.vice.com/en/article/g5gk73/google-fired-dozens-for-data-misuse
Topic 3: Apple to Scan the iCloud for Evidence of Child Sexual Abuse
No one’s going to argue with the goals here. But what’s next? Once the system is put in place to scan the contents of iCloud, will Apple resist looking for other illegal activity? Will the IRS pressure them to look for activity that indicated tax evasion? If nothing else, it’s a chink in the armor of “privacy by default.”
https://techcrunch.com/2021/08/05/apple-icloud-photos-scanning/
Sponsor Memo: PC Matic
Think you know PC Matic? Think again.
PC Matic is working with MSPs to deliver true zero trust/default deny endpoint security.
Allowing only trusted applications and blocking all the rest. A light weight, simple to deploy & easy to manage approach to application allow-listing.
Layering a default deny approach provides MSPs of all sizes the ability to again focus on prevention, and PC Matic delivers this without impacting performance or efficiency.
Find out more about by visiting https://pcmatic.com/MSP
Be sure to ask about PC Matic’s exclusive lead sharing program for MSPs backed by a prime time national TV campaign.
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Topic 1: The Disconnect Between Marketing, AI, and Reality
AI is awesome . . . until it’s not. We look at the need for transparency with AI data. How do you challenge AI bias in court? Should IA data be used in legal cases? Most importantly, how do YOU make money helping your clients with AI?
Topic 2: Board Incentives and Cybersecurity
How should (could) boards of directors stay up to date on cybersecurity? Is it even possible for boards to stay up to spec if it’s not their primary area of expertise? How can boards do something to gain the knowledge they need for corporate governance? Again: What role can YOU play in helping client boards know what matters in an ever-changing world?
https://www.philvenables.com/post/cybersecurity-the-board-s-perspective
Topic 3: Spy vs. Spy – How do we track deep fakes at scale?
Can we look forward to a future of “verified” video and stories? It would be a combination of technology plus data distributor agreements, plus audience desire for reality. Is there an opportunity for you in this field?
Sponsor Memo:
Are you still using on-prem file servers and VPNs to share files with remote workers? Egnyte is a business class cloud sharing solution that works more like your on-prem server than other solutions. With a security first approach to file sharing and collaboration, Egnyte offers multiple options for sharing files and collecting files from outside sources. And do it all addressing data governance and compliance. Want to learn more? Check out https://Egnyte.com/msp, and when you do, tell them the guys from Killing IT sent you.
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Topic 1: Why is there derision for “alternative” solution stacks?
Dave asks . . . why do people like to put down Chromebooks and Macs? Do they actually love their Windows-centric world?
We have fun, and we hope we make some points worth considering in a modern world.
Link:
https://www.thurrott.com/mobile/chrome-os/chromebook/253503/a-tale-of-two-chromebooks
Topic 2: Forget work/life balance: Now get back to work.
Last week, Mary Erdoes (chief executive officer of JPMorgan Chase asset and wealth management business) laid it on the line: If you want to be successful in the world of banking, you should expect to work 12-hour days, six days a week. Period. Her argument is that you can get your desired ten thousand hours of training in a few years.
She doesn’t mention that you’ll probably destroy your family and develop life-long habits that will literally kill you much younger than people who have more balance in their lives.
Link:
Related article: The boss wants you back in the office. Now.
https://www.wsj.com/articles/return-to-work-the-boss-wants-you-back-in-the-office-11627079616
Related web site:
https://www.relaxfocussucceed.com
Topic 3: QR Codes Finally Found a Foothold in the Pandemic. Now let’s talk privacy.
Restaurants adopted e-menu technology en masse during the pandemic. Scan the QR code, and browse the menu. And pay. All good. But you have just placed a data-gathering and marketing system between you and your food.
Yes, we have opinions.
Link:
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/07/26/technology/qr-codes-tracking.html
Sponsor Note:
Did you know that the average MSP spends 10 hours manually inputting accounting data each week? That time is 120 prospect calls, a month’s worth of the Business of Tech, or building an entire Lego death star. Gozynta Mobius can make your life easier through accounting automation. Automatic sync of invoices, expenses and inventory from ConnectWise Manage into QuickBooks Online in just a single click of a button.
With onboarding, direct support, and regular feature releases, Gozynta is a family owned company dedicated to making software suck a little less each day. Visit us at Gozynta.com
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Topic 1: The Impact of China on the Cybersecurity Industry & Data Protection
China was on both sides of the cybersecurity story last week. On one hand, they were accused by the whole world of orchestrating the attack on Exchange servers. On the other hand, they starting cracking down on cybersecurity internally.
This also has direct implications for US companies selling into China. What will be the impact of these moves on the US security market and our domestic business operations?
Links:
https://www.protocol.com/china/china-cybersecurity-self-sufficiency
Topic 2: Another New Application for Video: TikTok Resumes
TikTok had introduce a “Resume” service. Will you go there for your next hire? Could video essays be the next thing in hiring?
Through July 31, job seekers can upload video resumes with the hashtag #tiktokresumes. Is this just a Gen Z thing?
https://www.businessinsider.com/tiktok-wants-to-be-linkedin-for-gen-z-tiktok-resumes-2021-7
Topic 3: Toronto airport tests facial recognition software . . . without disclosing it
For several years, the Province of Ottowa tested facial recognition in crowds at the airport. What are the disclosure rules? What’s the ethics here?
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Vendor Memo:
Did you know that the average MSP spends 10 hours manually inputting accounting data each week? That time is 120 prospect calls, a month’s worth of the Business of Tech, or building an entire lego death star. Gozynta Mobius can make your life easier through accounting automation. Automatic sync of invoices, expenses and inventory from ConnectWise Manage into QuickBooks Online in just a single click of a button.
With onboarding, direct support, and regular feature releases, Gozynta is a family owned company dedicated to making software suck a little less each day. Visit us at https://www.Gozynta.com
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Topic 1: Revising RMM – Ready for Disruption?
Question – Is the problem super sophisticated and difficult or crazy simple and easy? We summarize a few arguments as well as look at the next topic: IOS. One of us is ready to drop RMM; one is not; and the tie goes to . . ..
Links:
https://www.wired.com/story/it-management-tools-hacking-jamf-kaseya/
Topic 2: Next Generation of Tires . . . on a 3D printed shuttle bus
This one’s a fun story about several future-facing technologies working together. First question: Why did it take 120 years to make airless tires that work? Second question: Can we see what this means for the future of the support industry for tires?
Link:
Topic 3: Shorter Work Week Experiment in Iceland Produces “Groundbreaking Improvements”
Karl loves the conclusion but can’t accept research. But we jump on the opportunities for workers, management, and companies of various sizes.
Link:
https://www.bbc.com/news/business-57724779
https://www.cnbc.com/2021/07/12/a-4-day-workweek-is-the-norm-in-iceland-could-the-us-follow-.html
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Vendor Memo:
Think you know PC Matic? Think again. PC Matic is working with MSPs to deliver true zero trust/default deny endpoint security. Allowing only trusted applications and blocking all the rest. A light weight, simple to deploy & easy to manage approach to application allow listing.
Layering a default deny approach provides MSPs of all sizes the ability to again focus on prevention, and PC Matic delivers this without impacting performance or efficiency. Find out more about by visiting https://pcmatic.com/MSP
Be sure to ask about PC Matic’s exclusive lead sharing program for MSPs backed by a prime time national TV campaign.
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Episode 120 – Riffing on Cybersecurity and the IT Industry
After the Kaseya attack, there really was nothing else to talk about.
In a slightly different format, we take the full show to just enjoy a totally unrehearsed discussion of the state of cybersecurity and what it means for the IT industry.
Lots of opinions here. Give us your feedback. Share with a friend.
Always more good Killing IT Podcasts at https://killingit.smallbizthoughts.com
Vendor memo:
Are you still relying on a frustrating patchwork of legacy solutions? Modernize your cybersecurity and data protection with Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud. It’s a single solution that combines backup, anti-malware, and endpoint protection management. As an MSP, you can easily improve clients’ security posture, eliminate complexity, and generate more recurring revenue. Learn more about Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud at www.Acronis.com.
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Topic 1: Neuro Diversity – a different approach to thinking about thinking.
We’re always looking for people who think differently. But we also put some serious limits on how different we are willing to accept. In this article, TechCrunch looks at the idea of inviting a wider variety of people into the world of cybersecurity hiring.
Link: https://techcrunch.com/2021/06/22/addressing-the-cybersecurity-skills-gap-through-neurodiversity/
Topic 2: Are robo cops actually doing anything to reduce crime?
It doesn’t look like it. Maybe Robots AREN’T the answer. Calls to 911 have gone down. But crime hasn’t.
Is there still some good to tease out of this story?
Topic 3: Tech Giant Battles – Lots of updates this week!
Case dropped against Facebook over Instagram and What’s App.
Somewhat unrelated: “Non-Agression Pact” between Google and Microsoft means they’ll each help the government go after the other.
Also somewhat unrelated: Amazon asks FTB Chair to sit this one out.
Links:
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Vendor Memo:
Are you still using on-prem file servers and VPNs to share files with remote workers? Egnyte is a business class cloud sharing solution that works more like your on-prem server than other solutions. With a security first approach to file sharing and collaboration, Egnyte offers multiple options for sharing files and collecting files from outside sources. And do it all addressing data governance and compliance. Want to learn more? Check out https://Egnyte.com/msp, and when you do, tell them we sent you.
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