Lesson from MindTree’s forex losses

MindTree provided a revenue and profit growth guidance for the year to March 2009, based on a rupee-dollar rate of 39.4

The June quarter results of MindTree Ltd make an interesting point. The rupee may have depreciated sharply since end-April, but none of the gains from this will flow into the net results of information technology companies which were overtly aggressive with their forex hedges.

On 16 April, MindTree provided a revenue and profit growth guidance for the year to March 2009, based on a rupee-dollar rate of 39.4. The domestic currency has depreciated by nearly 9% since, but the company has maintained its guidance. This should normally have led to a sharp rise in the profit guidance, since operating profit margin inches up by roughly 50 basis points for every 1% depreciation in the rupee.

It turns out that MindTree had large hedges taken at a rate of 40.97 to a dollar, and has booked mark-to-market losses worth $12 million (Rs51.8 crore) on them in the June quarter. In one sense, the losses are notional, because the company hasn’t unwound the derivatives positions and hasn’t actually booked the losses.

But the right way to look at it is that a large chunk of the company’s foreign currency revenues and receivables this year will be converted into domestic currency at a rate of 40.97 to a dollar, and not at the ruling rate of 43.07. In other words, it will be a while before the benefits of the rupee depreciation flows to the bottom line of MindTree. A similar story will play out in some other IT firms with large hedge positions, although in varying degrees.

Throwing Cash Like Monopoly Money

To paraphrase senator Dirksen a trillion here, a trillion there and pretty soon you are talking real money. This week's expansion of the Fed's balance sheet by another $800 Billion was good example of that well worn maxim. Certainly the currency markets did not look kindly on the news, as the EUR /USD soared more than 300 points post announcement.

As we noted that day,”The trade in the dollar therefore has shifted from seeing the greenback as the safe haven asset and the ultimate reserve currency in a credit crunch world, to one where concern over the inflationary implications of so much debt being backstopped by the Fed and the US Treasury could make the buck vulnerable as we approach the end of the calendar year.”

But the rally EUR/USD did not last. The pair ran into massive supply at the 1.30's as month end fixes overwhelmed any immediate fears about dollar's inflationary collapse. For the time being range continues to be the dominant theme as every breakout turns into a fake-out crushing the hopes of both bulls and bears.

Next week the focus will turn to the US Non-Farm payroll report as trader steel themselves for a possible -300K number. Given the 500K+ weekly jobless claims this month a large loss of jobs is almost assured but unless the print is woefully worse than the -285K expected it is unlikely to trigger much of a move in EUR/USD.

With Obama Administration still two months away from taking office, technical factors such as end of year fixes are more likely to dominate flows. As dollar repatriation picks up pace in December, the greenback may see one more round of buying, but on a longer term time frame the salad days of the dollar rally appear to be over and consolidation continues to be the dominant play inn FX

Bad Selection

The 8:00 AM Thanksgiving train from New York to Boston was full of self satisfied New Yorkers including myself, smug in their knowledge that they they were able to circumvent the maddening crowds at the airports and the bumper to bumper traffic on the highways during the busiest travel day of the year in US. Indeed, as the train sailed smoothly towards Boston's Route 128 station, the majority of the passengers began to gather by the exit smiling at the fact that the whole journey took a scant three hours to complete. Suddenly, however, the train lurched to screeching halt and a sickening smell of burnt rubber enveloped the car.

We were no more than four minutes away from the train station but now found ourselves dead still in the middle of suburban Massachusetts wilderness surrounded only ominous looking trees and and a track full of twigs. A grim faced conductor rushed by and said, “Go back to your seats. We are not going anywhere for a while.”

What happened? After a few minutes of frantic cell phone calling to friends and relatives at the train station we pieced together the basic facts of the story. A man had apparently wandered on to the track and was unfortunately struck by our train. Although injured, he was not dead and by now the whole rescue apparatus of the state of Massachusetts was involved in the incident.

The moment the outline of the story became known, a hundred Iphones and as many Blackberries lit up in frantic attempt to find out how soon the whole mess would be resolved. As i watched my fellow passengers armed with the latest gadgets of the information age struggle vainly with getting an answer I smiled ruefully knowing how pointless it was.

By now, the accident triggered a long and complicated bureaucratic protocol and no matter how many times my fellow travelers refreshed the tiny screens of their web-enabled cellphones they weren't going to expedite the process. So as ten minutes turned into a half an hour and half hour turned into an hour and an hour turned into two, we watched the Amtrak local train which left New York an hour after us and was supposed to arrive two hours later pass us by as we remained trapped less than a mile away from our final destination.

Sitting in a cafe car nursing a cold cup of coffee, I realized how this little unexpected and unfortunate adventure was similar to trading. I saw clearly how even the best laid plans, accompanied by the latest information technology can still fall victim to fate. All of our clever travel planning, all of gadgets could not help us on this Thanksgiving day. We were simply subject to forces outside our control.

As traders of course we see this phenomena all the time. No matter the trade plan, no matter the analytics, no matter the money management, sometimes we simply make a Bad Selection. The good news for the passengers is that we finally arrived to Boston safe and sound and enjoyed a great Thanksgiving with our families . A point to keep in mind next time a trade blows up in your face. Bad Selection is part of life as it is part of trading we should take it all in stride.

Happy Thanksgiving to all our American subscribers. No video this week due to holiday shortened trading,

Keeping China’s Forex Safe: The State Administration of Foreign Exchange

July 23 - Long held at an artificially low rate by the Chinese government, the RMB has been allowed to slowing appreciate in recent years, helping to ease a growing trade imbalance with the United States and the EU. The rising value is just one example of how Beijing has maneuvered tools in place to deal with the macro economic fall out from China’s surging economy. In a time of rising inflation and calls from the West to allow the currency to appreciate faster, one government department’s involvement with China’s foreign exchange reserves places it at the center of China’s future economic outlook. The State Administration of Foreign Exchange’s main task is to draft rules and regulations that govern foreign exchange market activities in China and manage the country’s foreign exchange reserves.

SAFE was founded in Beijing in March, 1979, by the State Council, and since August, 1982, it has been governed by the state central bank, the People’s Bank of China. SAFE is headquartered in Beijing with an additional 36 administrative offices and 298 central sub-branches located throughout the country. SAFE also has offices in Hong Kong, Singapore, London and New York.

Most business people in China have heard of SAFE, and if they haven’t personally dealt with them, their account surely has. Several Chinese audit requirements necessitate submission of documents to the authority: an Audited Financial Report, a Foreign Exchange Audit Report, and an Annual Report. These reports need to be prepared and submitted to seven different government departments, namely the Bureau of Foreign Trade and Economic Co-operation, the Financial Bureau, Customs and Excise, the State Administration of Taxation, the local tax bureau, the Administration of Industry and Commerce, and SAFE.

Besides these annual legal requirements, SAFE plays also an important role when a foreign-invested enterprise is setting up. If an FIE needs to open a foreign settlement account—most companies need such an account to receive foreign currency—then an FIE must register the details with SAFE, regardless if the FIE is a representative office, a FICE or a WFOE. Registration takes about one to two days if it is handled by a professional firm. Only when this registration is completed can the invested company set up bank accounts in their chosen bank.

At Dezan Shira & Associates we deal on a regular basis with client questions concerning new SAFE regulations. As matter of fact, SAFE contributes quite frequently to the ever changing regulatory environment in China. The latest being the new SAFE regulations on July 14, 2008 on the registration of external loans.

Export and import
If your business is related to export and import you will always be in relation with the SAFE. In a typical export scenario a company based in China will export goods overseas and the money should be paid and received in a bank account in China. When this happens, the client’s bank will then inform SAFE about the money transfer and SAFE will then authorize the bank whether the money can be released to the foreign bank. This decision is based on the e-customs system, computerized network system which links SAFE, Customs, the foreign trade department and the Administration of Industry and Commerce together. SAFE has the ability to audit all exports and imports through this computerized system. All the goods which have left China and all the payments received can be traced. For the import a similar system is in place. Once the money is remitted out and the FIE has paid the goods, the SAFE will have the possibility to check if the goods were delivered in China or not.

FIEs and SAFE issues
SAFE is as well the eye of the needle to repatriate the profits of an FIE. Usually this is done after the annual audit and the tax clearance. Once all the relevant taxes are paid, the FIE can apply for profit repatriation. After approval, the investor can remit its profits via its bank, unless the SAFE disapprove.

There are also unpleasant moments when an FIE has to deal with SAFE. From our experience, most of the time the problems are linked to registered capital issues. Some foreign-invested enterprises try to keep their profits outside of China and have declared a very low registered capital amount. Most of the time, the foreign investor doesn’t realize that he is under capitalized. The cash accounts are kept afloat via technical agreements and cash in advance payments for goods which will be delivered in the future. All this is in an ideal world and keeps the FIE financially viable.

However, when SAFE inspects the enterprise the problem appears. As described above, it is quite simple for SAFE to check the advance payments and services invoiced against the value of the exported goods which have left China and the supplied services. According to Chinese foreign exchange regulations, money received from aboard should not exceed 110 percent of the export amount. If the advanced payments and the actual exported goods reach a certain “unhealthy” quota, SAFE will seek appropriate action.

The foreign investor normally will not be always being aware when their company is dealing with SAFE because, most likely, the bank will serve as a buffer. However, when SAFE directly approaches the FIE for an inspection or a verification, the FIE should pay attention to the details.

Forex Trading Price Action Support and Resistance

When you study Forex trading you need to take advantage of all the forex online courses, forex systems, forex loan online trading, currency forex online trading, and any online free training course for that matter. The more experience and knowledge you gain in this highly liquefiable and profit driven market, the better chance you have to succeed. The first thing you need to do when coming to the forex market is participate in a "mock scenario" with real life examples on how to trade in this market.

These real life examples let you experience first hand what it is like trading and earning money with currency trading. If you can start making a lot of money right away with "play money" you might want to consider investing some real money into this market. I highly do not recommend doing this until you are 100% comfortable and have a complete understanding of this market. It is the best feeling in the world though once you see your "play money" account rising and rising and when you jump into real money it does the same thing.

Let me give you a quick background on forex trading in case you have not heard of it before. The forex trading market has been around for decades. The only competition in this market decades ago was multi-national corporations and large financial institutions. These industries were making an absolute killing off this market. The times have quickly changed. It is now the consumer's turn or the single investors turn to become rich. Your account forex managed by a single individual will no doubt give you the greatest opportunity of succeeding.

Until recently, the forex market had a lot of scammers in it. These scammers pried on the uneducated people that liked to jump into this market with no background. In today's world and society even though this industry is not quite regulated there have been numerous amounts of preventative measures taken to prevent this type of fraud. You really need to be cautious signing up with a brokerage firm if you decide to go this route, I recommend not doing this you are completely capable of making a lot of money in this industry on your own. People get this confused with forex stock trading. This has nothing to do with the stock market at all. The only relations forex trading has to the stock market is that they are both investing wheels.

A major difference between the stock market and the forex market is that one is that unlike the stock market the forex market is open 24 hours a day! In the forex market also your money is never tied up and 100% liquidated. You can sell your currency at any point in time and convert it to real money at any point in time. You do not have to pay outrageous penalties.

The biggest factor into learning how to succeed in this market is to educate yourself. You should seek as much free or paid for education as possible and look for as many systems as you can and try to find out a forex trading system that works for you.

Courses

AT 263
FLUID POWER SYSTEMS
Prerequisite:MA 153 Corequisite:Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:2 Lab Hrs.:2
An analysis of design, construction, and operation of the fluid power systems. Topics range from fluids and hardware through individual component analysis to diagnosis and repair of complex systems.

CGT

CGT 101
INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER GRAPHICS TECHNOLOGY
Prerequisite: Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
This course provides an introduction to and a survey of the discipline of computer graphics. As an introductory course for incoming freshmen, its topics include a survey of the applications of computer graphics, the knowledge base and history of computer graphics, an examination of computer graphic technologies and careers in this rapidly emerging and evolving field, as well as an overview of available resources for study and research in computer graphics.

CGT 110
COMPUTER GRAPHICS COMMUNICATION
Prerequisite: Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 2 Lab Hrs.: 2
This course is an introduction to the graphic language used to communicate design ideas using CAD. Topics include: sketching multiview drawings, auxiliary views, pictorial views, working drawings, dimensioning practices, and section views.

CGT 111
DESIGN FOR VISUALIZATION & COMMUNICATION
Prerequisite: Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:2 Lab Hrs.:2
An introductory design course for computer graphics majors. Students develop an understanding of the basic design elements and principles, composition and typography through exercises and projects. The focus is on visual thinking, exploring the relationship between type and image, and developing multiple solutions to a given problem.

CGT 112
SKETCHING FOR VISUALIZATION & COMMUNICATION
Prerequisite: Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:2 Lab Hrs.:2
This course applies fundamental computer graphics concepts of visualization, communication and creativity within a sketching metaphor. Exercises and projects in graphic theory, problem solving and sketching skill development provide students with activities that focus on further development within the discipline. A variety of sketching techniques are used to gather critical information and transform data into effective communication instruments.

CGT 116
GEOMETRIC MODELING FOR VISUALIZATION & COMMUNICATION
Prerequisite: Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:2 Lab Hrs.:2
Core introductory computer graphics course that provides entry-level experiences in geometric modeling. Students develop geometric analysis and modeling construction techniques and processes to produce accurate computer models for graphic visualization and communication.

CGT 117
ILLUSTRATING FOR VISUALIZATION AND COMMUNICATION
Prerequisite: Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:2 Lab Hrs.:2
This foundation course stresses the use of pictorial illustration for visualization and communication. Various projection systems are introduced, with discussion focusing on the appropriate use of view and system utilized to accentuate and provide clear communication. A variety of digital tools are used to construct, extract, and render pictorial views using vector and raster tools.

CGT 211
RASTER IMAGING FOR COMPUTER GRAPHICS
Prerequisite: Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:2 Lab Hrs.:2
Digital images are produced using a variety of computer technologies. Advanced color theory, surface rendering, and light control are emphasized in relation to technical illustration, hardware characteristics, and software capabilities.

CGT 216
VECTOR IMAGING FOR COMPUTER GRAPHICS Prerequisite:CGT 211 Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:2 Lab Hrs.:2
Full-color vector illustrations for a variety of uses are produced using computer methods. Color theory, surface analysis, and rendering techniques are emphasized as they apply to vector based illustrations.

CGT 242
COMPUTER GRAPHICS FOR SUPERVISION
Prerequisite: Corequisite: Credits: 2 Class Hrs.:1 Lab Hrs.:2
An introduction to commonly encountered technical drawing practices; multiview representation, isometric pictorial, reading drawings, dimensioning practices, and working drawings. Emphasis is on computer graphics as technical communication through freehand sketching.

MFET

MFET 300
APPLICATIONS OF AUTOMATION IN MANUFACTURING
Prerequisite:MET 242, ECET 214. DOES NOT CARRY CREDIT TOWARD GRADUATION IN MFET. Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:2 Lab Hrs.:2
Basic introduction to automation applications in manufacturing and the impact of computer-based systems on a manufacturing company. Coverage includes practices and the various issues related to the application of computer-integrated manufacturing. Emphasis placed on CAD, CAM, CNC, robotics, industrial control elements, PLCs, and computer-based process controls.

CIT

CPT 105
INTRODUCTION TO C PROGRAMMING
Prerequisite: Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.:
This course is an introduction to computer programming using the "C" language. The emphasis is on structured programming principles, and understanding the basic concepts that apply to engineering problems. Among topics covered in this are: Problem solving using top down design, using flowcharts to explain the program logic, selection structure, repetition structure, bitwise operations, arrays, pointers, strings, passing arguments, and sequential files. The assignments in this course are appropriate for ECET students. Not available for credit to Computer Technology majors.

CPT 136
PERSONAL COMPUTING TECHNOLOGY AND APPLICATIONS
Prerequisite: Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:1 Lab Hrs.:4
This course provides an intermediate coverage of PC technology and problem solving. Topics include computer hardware, operations and ethics, and operating systems and environments. Students will gain hands-on skills with applications such as desktop and file management, word processing, spreadsheets, presentation graphics, electronic mail, personal information management, and Internet browsing, searching, and publishing.

CPT 141
INTERNET FOUNDATIONS, TECHNOLOGIES, AND DEVELOPMENT
Prerequisite: PC LITERACY Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 2 Lab Hrs.: 2
This course explores the history, architecture, and development of the World Wide Web. Current tagging and scripting languages are covered in a tool-independent environment. Topics also include authoring tools, design, graphics and multimedia formats, and commerce, implementation, and security issues.

CPT 155
INTRODUCTION TO OBJECT PROGRAMMING
Prerequisite: Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.:
This course introduces fundamental computer programming concepts. Topics include problem solving and algorithm development, programming standards, variables, data types, operators, decisions, repetitive structures, modularity, arrays, sequential files, programming with objects, user interface construction, and software testing and debugging. The concepts and skills learned in this course are transferable to a wide variety of contemporary programming languages and software development tools.

CPT 172
INTRODUCTION TO APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT
Prerequisite: Corequisite: redits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
This course introduces the development of information systems through the use of a database. Topics include business information systems, system and application development, database management systems, problem solving, logic, data types, and programming using database technology. Given a database design and application requirements, students design, construct, and test a personal computer information system.

CPT 175
VISUAL PROGRAMMING
Prerequisite:MA 163 & PERSONAL COMPUTING EXPERIENCE Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
Not available for credit to computer technology majors. This course introduces event-driven application development and programming using a visual programming environment. Topics include problem solving and program design, control structures, objects and events, user interface construction, documentation, and program testing.

CPT 176
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY ARCHITECTURES
Prerequisite: CPT 172 Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.:
A conceptual and technological survey of information technology architectures inclusive of: operating systems, network operating systems, distributed systems architectures and distributed application architectures. Interoperability between these architectural components is explored. Current technology and trends in each architectural element are reviewed.

CPT 180
INTRODUCTION TO SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT
Prerequisite: PC Literacy Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.:
This course introduces information systems development. Topics include types of information systems, system development, database management systems, and problem solving. Students will read/create UML, ERD, and data flow diagrams to model information system objects, data, processes, and logic. Labs emphasize modeling and SQL/QBE querying to prepare students for later systems, programming, and database classes. Given user requirements students will design, construct, and test a personal computer information system.

CPT 230
DATA COMMUNICATIONS
Prerequisite: CPT 176 Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.:
This course provides an introduction to both Local Area Networks (LANs) and Wide Area Networks (WANs). Modem technology, standards and practices are explored. Three architectural models are used to illustrate protocol relationships and operational characteristics of both packet and circuit switched networks. Business issues from both provider and user perspectives are discussed. Current technology and trends in each architectural element are reviewed.

CPT 255
PROGRAMMING FOR THE INTERNET
Prerequisite: CPT 141 AND 155 Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.:
This course introduces programming techniques used to develop dynamic Internet and intranet applications. Topics include client-side scripting, server-side scripting, and their appropriate use. The students will gain practical experience using contemporary scripting technologies in laboratory-based assignments.

CPT 272
DATABASE FUNDAMENTALS
Prerequisite: Corequisite: CPT 255
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.:
A study of relational database concepts. These concepts include data design, modeling and normalization; the use of Structured Query Language (SQL) to define, manipulate and test the database; programmatic access to a database and practical issues that database developers must handle.

CPT 276
SYSTEMS SOFTWARE AND NETWORKING
Prerequisite: CPT 176 Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.:
Introduction to a wide range of topics in the data communications field, including vocabulary, hardware, issues, trends, network protocols, network operating systems, and directory services. The students will gain hands-on experience in the laboratory with installing and configuring network operating systems software.

CPT 295
OBJECT ORIENTED PROGRAMMING
Prerequisite: CPT 255 & CPT 272 Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.:
This course focuses on using object-oriented programming languages in the development of modern, business applications. Topics include object-oriented design, encapsulation, object interfaces, inheritance, aggregation, abstract classes, polymorphism, data structures, and exception handling.

COM

COM 114
FUNDAMENTALS OF SPEECH COMMUNICATION
Prerequisite: Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.:
A study of communication theories as applied to speech; practical communicative experience ranging from interpersonal communication and small groups process through problem identification and solution in discussion to informative and persuasive speaking in standard speaker-audience situations.

COM 314
ADVANCED PUBLIC SPEAKING
Prerequisite:COM 114 Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
Development of a marked degree of skill in the composition and delivery of various types of speeches; special emphasis on speeches related to the student's major vocational area.

COM 318
PRINCIPLES OF PERSUASION
Prerequisite:COM 114 Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
Persuasion and its effects, ranging from individual influences to societal impacts. Various perspectives and models of persuasion are examined, including classical and modern approaches. Both theoretical and pragmatic considerations are introduced.

ECET

ECET 107
INTRODUCTION TO CIRCUIT ANALYSIS
Prerequisite: Corequisite: MA 153
Credits: 4 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.: 3
Voltage, current, resistance, Ohm's law, Kirchhoff's laws, resistance combinations, and Thevenin's, Norton's, and superposition theorems are studied. DC and AC circuits are studied and utilized with basic AC terminology described. The performance of ideal transformers, capacitors and inductors, and first order RLC circuits are investigated. Fundamental analog circuits are utilized in the laboratory to enhance the understanding of basic laws and theorems.

ECET 109
DIGITAL FUNDAMENTALS
Prerequisite: Corequisite: CPT 133 OR DEPARTMENT APPROVAL
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 2 Lab Hrs.: 3
Introduces basic gate and flip-flop logic devices and their application in combinational and sequential digital circuits. Topics include decoders, displays, encoders, multiplexers, demultiplexers, registers, and counters. Logic circuit analysis, implementation of circuits using standard IC chips, programmable logic devices, circuit testing, and troubleshooting are emphasized.

ECET 157
ELECTRICAL CIRCUITS ANALYSIS
Prerequisite: ECET 107, MA 153, CPT 133 Corequisite:
Credits: 4 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.: 3
Diodes, various discrete and IC regulated power supplies, transistor biasing techniques, and characteristics of small signal amplifiers are studied. Additional topics such as dependent sources, operational amplifiers, non-ideal DC op amp characteristics, waveform generation, and IC fabrication overview are also covered. Circuit fundamentals such as Kirchhoff's laws are utilized in the analysis and design of circuits. Computer-aided analysis of circuits is used.

ECET 159
DIGITAL APPLICATIONS
Prerequisite: ECET 107 AND 109 Corequisite:
Credits: 4 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.: 3
This course continues the study of combinational and sequential digital applications. The input and output characteristics of the various common logic families and the appropriate signal conditioning techniques for on/off power interfacing are discussed. Also stressed are standard logic function blocks, digital and analog signal interfacing techniques, and memory devices.

ECET 196
EXPLORING EET
Prerequisite: Corequisite:
Credits: 2 Class Hrs.: 1 Lab Hrs.: 3
This course explores the EET field. Practical experiences to teach techniques for proper and safe use of basic hand and machine tools are introduced. Techniques for connecting various types of circuits are also covered. The process of fabricating printed circuit boards and introductory processes for using plastic and metal to fabricate custom parts are presented. Verbal and written communication skills are utilized to report project progress and results

ECET 207
AC ELECTRONICS CIRCUIT ANALYSIS
Prerequisite: ECET 157 AND MA 154 Corequisite:
Credits: 4 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.: 3
AC circuits including the j operator, phasors, reactance and impedance are studied. Circuit laws, network theorems, and the fundamental concepts of Fourier analysis are applied and used in the study of topics such as passive filters, IC filters, amplifiers, resonant circuits, single phase and three phase circuits, and elementary magnetic circuits.

ECET 209
INTRODUCTION TO MICROPROCESSORS
Prerequisite: ECET 159 Corequisite:
Credits: 4 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.: 3
This course is an introduction to microprocessor hardware and software focusing on embedded control applications. Interconnections of components, peripheral devices, bus time relationships, structured C-language programming, debugging, input/output techniques, and use of PC based software development tools are studied.

ECET 214
ELECTRICITY FUNDAMENTALS
Prerequisite: MA 153 AND 154 Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 2 Lab Hrs.: 3
An introduction to elemental electrical components and their characteristics, basic electrical circuit theory, and use of basic laboratory test equipment, electrical motors, and industrial motor controls.

ECET 231
ELECTRICAL POWER AND CONTROLS
Prerequisite: MA 221, ECET 207 AND PHYS 218 Corequisite: ECET 257
Credits: 4 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.: 3
This course introduces magnetic materials and properties followed by analysis of transformers and power conditioning equipment, induction motors, and single-phase and three-phase power systems. Motor control devices, programmable logic controllers, PLC input and output devices, and power systems communications and monitoring are introduced.

ECET 257
POWER AND RF ELECTRONICS
Prerequisite: ECET 207 Corequisite:
Credits: 4 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.: 3
This course applies circuit analysis techniques to amplifiers used in power and RF electronics. Topics to be introduced include bipolar and field effect transistors, thyristors, RF oscillators, mixers, AM/FM modulation, phase lock loops, frequency synthesis, switching power supplies, and active filters. Computer-aided analysis of circuits is used.

ECET 297
ELECTRONIC SYSTEM DESIGN & FABRICATION
Prerequisite: ECET 196, ECET 159, ECET 207 Corequisite:
Credits: 2 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.: 3
This course introduces project planning and basic concepts in electronic design automation (EDA). The student develops the project from an engineering rough sketch to a finished and tested printed circuit board by utilization of EDA. New construction and testing techniques are introduced. The final product is presented in an oral and written report. The written documentation is used along with a resume in a job application simulation.

ECON

ECON 210
PRINCIPLES OF ECONOMICS
Prerequisite: Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.:
Study of the basic economic institutions and the roles they play in defining and achieving the nation's economic goals. Emphasis will be placed on the interdependent nature of the economic decisions on the individual society.

ENGL

ENGL 101
ENGLISH COMPOSITION I
Prerequisite: Corequisite:Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
The first half of the basic composition sequence. Extensive practice in writing clear and effective prose. Instruction in logic, structure, and style.

ENGL 421
TECHNICAL WRITING
Prerequisite: Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
Technical reporting, with emphasis upon organizing data logically and suiting format to topic. Practice in the preparation of proposals, standards and specifications, instructions, graphic illustrations, and formal and informal reports.

IET

IET 264
WORK METHODS AND MEASUREMENT
Prerequisite: Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
A survey of work analysis; principles and techniques of motion study; nature of human work; design of work methods; work measurement; work sampling; predetermined time systems.

IT

IT 104S
INDUSTRIAL ORGANIZATION
Prerequisite: Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.:
A detailed survey of organizational structures, operational, financial, marketing, and accounting activities; duties of management, planning, control, personnel, safety, wages, policy, and human factors necessary for effective management.

IT 114
PROBLEM-SOLVING IN MANUFACTURING
Prerequisite:IT 104, Field trips required. Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
A study of practices used in industry to determine the optimal solution of a given problem. The use of role-playing, computer simulation, & case study analysis will be an integral part of the course.

IT 230
ELEMENTS OF DISTRIBUTION
Prerequisite:FIELD TRIPS REQUIRED. Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
A study of types and systems of industrial distribution. Emphasis is on in-plant shipping and receiving functions; modes of distribution; functions of, and services provided by, distributors. Consideration also is given to the nature of career opportunities.

IT 281
INDUSTRIAL SAFETY
Prerequisite:IT 104. FIELD TRIPS MAY BE REQUIRED. Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
A course designed to develop understanding of, and insight ito, the basic aspects of accident prevention and safety. Specific attention will be given to (1) the psyhological aspects of accident prevention; (2) the principles of accident prevention; (3) the pracital aspects of planning, implementing, and maintaining a safe environment; and (4) standards, current laws, and regulations.

IT 342
INDUSTRIAL QUALITY CONTROL
Prerequisite:MA 151 OR EQUIVALENT. FIELD TRIPS MAY BE REQUIRED. Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
A survey of the basic principles of quality control as applied in a variety of industrial settings. Includes an introduction to sampling, measurement and measuring devices, and documentation for both product and process quality control.

IT 345
AUTOMATI IDENTIFICATION AND DATA CAPTURE
Prerequisite:IT 114 OR CPT 172 OR 175. FIELD TRIPS MAY BE REQUIRED. Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:0
The course studies systems used to automate data collection and identify physical objects. Keyless data entry, biometrics, electromagnetics, magnetics, optics, smart cards, and touch input will be utilized. The role of electronic data interchange (EDI) will be studied.

IT 381
TOTAL PRODUCTIVE MAINTENANCE
Prerequisite:PHYS 218, IT 342 OR STAT 301. FIELD TRIPS MAY BE REQUIRED. Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
The course is a study of the role and scope of total productive maintenance (TPM) in manufacturing. The three types of maintenance activities: corrective, preventive, predictive, and their associated quantitative techniques are studied. Reliability and queuing theory are discussed. Team projects are required.

IT 385
INDUSTRIAL ERGONOMICS
Prerequisite:MA 151 AND JUNIOR STANDING IN IT, OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR. FIELD TRIPS MAY BE REQUIRED. Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
A course designed to focus on work design and ergonomics in manufacturing. Specific attention will be focused on introducing the terminology and the techniques used in work design and on the fundamental concepts embodied in industrial ergonomics. During scheduled laboratory times, exercises will permit the student to apply the concepts of industrial ergonomics.

IT 442
PRODUCTION PLANNING
Prerequisite:IT 114, MET 242, OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR. FIELD TRIPS MAY BE REQUIRED. Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
A study of industrial organization and management, research and development, production, personnel, and sales. Examples of the procedures necessary to provide a product or service are included.

IT 450
PRODUCTION COST ANALYSIS
Prerequisite:MA 151 OR EQUIVALENT, JUNIOR OR SENIOR STANDING. Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
An introduction to financial statements and to the study of the costs of production in terms of breakeven and least-cost alternatives, including present and future costs when related to the time value of money, mudgeting, labor and overhead, production, cost control, and the role of the supervisor and the engineering technologist to cost control. Computer applications for determining rate of return for complex problems are introduced.

IT 483
FACILITIES PLANNING AND MATERIALS HANDLING
Prerequisite:MET 242 & IT 442 OR MFET 246. FIELD TRIPS MAY BE REQUIRED. Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:2 Lab Hrs.:
This capstone course emphasizes the integration of all aspects of manufacturing ativities and materials handling systems. A systematic approach is used to design a manufacturing facility to produce a complex product. Particular attention is given to efficiencey and productivity. Computer simulation software is utilized. A comprehensive team project is required.

MA

MA 153
ALGEBRA AND TRIGONOMETRY
Prerequisite: NONE Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.:
First semester of a two semester sequence of MA 151. The study of fundamental concepts of algebra, linear and quadratic equations, inequalities, functions and graphs. Polynomial functions and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, and systems of equations and inequalities. The study of trigonometric functions, identities, equations, formulas, and applications. Also uses logarithmic tables. Includes the study of sequences, series, and probability as well as topics from analytical geometry.

MA 154
ALGEBRA AND TRIGONOMETRY
Prerequisite:MA 153 Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
Second semester of a two semester sequence of MA 151. The study of fundamental concepts of algebra, linear and quadratic equations, inequalities, functions and graphs, polynomial functions and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, and systems of equations and inequalities. The study of trigonometric functions, identities, equations, formulas, and applications. Also uses logarithmic tables. Includes the study of sequences, series, and probability as well as topics from analytical geometry.

MA 221
CALCULUS FOR TECHNOLOGY I
Prerequisite: MA 151 or Equivalent Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.:
This is the first of a two-semester sequence in the techniques of calculus for students enrolled in technical curricula. The study of polynomials and rational functions and the concepts of limit, continuity, differentiability and integrability are developed.

MA 223
INTRODUCTORY ANALYSIS I
Prerequisite:MA 151 OR EQUIVALENT Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
Differential calculus with applications to management and economics.

MA 224
INTRODUCTORY ANALYSIS II
Prerequisite: MA 223 Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.:
Integral calculus; partial derivatives; differentials; introduction to differential equations. Applications to management and economics.

MET

MET 102
PRODUCTION DESIGN & SPECIFICATIONS
Prerequisite: CGT 120, MET 160, OR 162 & 163 Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 1 Lab Hrs.: 5
The design, evaluation, and documentation of engineering specifications required of manufacturability and assembly are introduced. Emphasis is on cad-based details, assemblies, design layouts, equipment installations, and related industrial practices.

MET 111
APPLIED STATICS
Prerequisite: MA 153 & 154 & MET 162 OR 160 Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 2 Lab Hrs.: 2
Force systems, resultants and equilibrium, trusses, frames, beams, and shear and moments in beams are studied.

MET 141
MATERIALS I
Prerequisite: Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 2 Lab Hrs.: 2
An overview of structures, properties, and applications of metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites commonly used in industry is presented. Problem-solving skills are developed in the areas of materials selection, evaluation, measurement, and testing.

MET 142
MANUFACTURING PROSESSES I
Prerequisite: MET 141 Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 2 Lab Hrs.: 3
Basic casting, forming, and joining processes are surveyed. The course emphasizes the selection and application of various processes

MET 160
ANALYTICAL AND COMPUTATIONAL TOOLSA IN MET
Prerequisite: Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 1 Lab Hrs.: 5
The skills needed to solve technical problems in mechanical engineering technology are developed. Instruction is given in analytical and computational problem-solving techniques. The electronic calculator, the factor-label method of unit conversions, engineering graphs, and the computer are used to solve problems. Computer emphasis is on spreadsheet analysis, graphics, and generation of technical reports through the integrated use of software packages.

MET 211
APPLIED STRENGTH OF MATERIALS
Prerequisite: MET 111 AND 163 Corequisite: MA 221
Credits: 4 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.: 2
The principles of strength, stiffness, and stability are introduced and applied primarily to mechanical components.

MET 213
DYNAMICS
Prerequisite: MET 111 & MA 221 Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 2 Lab Hrs.: 2
Kinematics and kinetics principles of rigid-body dynamics are introduced. Emphasis is on the analysis of bodies in plane motion.

MET 214
MACHINE ELEMENTS
Prerequisite: MET 211& 213 Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.: 0
The methods developed in statics, dynamics, and strength of materials are applied to the selection of basic machine components. The fundamental principles required for the selection of individual elements that compose a machine are developed. Selected course topics are included as computer exercises.

MET 220
HEAT/POWER
Prerequisite: MET 160, OR 162 & 163, PHYS 218 Corequisite: MA 221
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 2 Lab Hrs.: 2
Heat/Power is an introduction to the principles of thermodynamics and heat transfer. Basic thermodynamic processes are used to evaluate the performance of energy-based systems such as internal combustion engines, power plants, and refrigeration equipment.

MET 230
FLUID POWER
Prerequisite: MET 111 OR PHYS 218; MET 160, 163, OR CPT 135; COREQUISITE: MA 221 Corequisite: MA 221
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 2 Lab Hrs.: 2
This course consists of the study of compressible and incompressible fluid statics and dynamics as applied to hydraulic and pneumatic pumps, motors, transmissions, and controls.

MET 241
POLYMER MATERIALS AND PROCESSES
Prerequisite: Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:2 Lab Hrs.:2
The technology of plastics materials and processes is studied. Characteristics of thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics, and principles of molding, forming, reinforcing, and other processes are introduced.

MET 242
MANUFACTURING PROCESSES II
Prerequisite: MET 141, MA 154, MET 162, CPT 135 OR MET 163 Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 2 Lab Hrs.: 2
This course surveys the manufacturing processes and tools commonly used to convert cast, forged, molded, and wrought materials into finished products. It includes the basic mechanisms of material removal, measurement, quality control, assembly processes, cold forming, safety, process planning and automated manufacturing.

MGMT

MGMT 190B
INTRODUCTORY ACCOUNTING
Prerequisite: Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
The objectives of this course are to help students: (1) understand what is in financial statements and what the statements say about a business, (2) identify the business activities that were responsible for the amounts that appear in the statements, and (3) understand how, whe, and at what amount the effects of manager and employee actions will appear in the statements.

MGMT 201
MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTING
Prerequisite: Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
An introduction to accounting for management planning and control, including cost accounting, budgeting, accounting control system, and use of accounting information in management decisions.

OLS

OLS 252
HUMAN BEHAVIOR IN ORGANIZATIONS Prerequisite: Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
Introduction and orientation to the Department of Organizational Leadership and Supervision and an overview of the supervision and personnel functions in the world of work.

OLS 274
APPLIED LEADERSHIP
Prerequisite: Corequisite:
Credits: 3 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.:
Introduction to and overview of the fundamental concepts of leadership. Emphasis is placed on the supervisor's major functions and essential areas of knowledge, his or her relations with others, and his or her personal development.

OLS 284
LEADERSHIP PROCESS
Prerequisite: Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
An in-depth study of a sequence of manager actions that influence employees to achieve desired performance results. How these manager actions are transformed by employers into desired performance also is covered.

OLS 331
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY & HEALTH
Prerequisite: Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
A presentation of those aspects of occupational safety and health that are most essential to the first-line supervisor. Emphasis is placed on developing an understanding of the economic, legal, and social factors related to providing a safe and healthy work environment.

OLS 376
HUMAN RESOURCE ISSUES
Prerequisite:OLS 386 & OLS 388. OLS MAJORS ONLY Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
Analysis and discussion of selected case problems concerning typical personnel situations that impact upon the supervisor. Emphasis directed toward development of student attitude, philosophy, analytical ability, and problem solving skills within the working environment.

OLS 386
MANAGEMENT OF CHANGE
Prerequisite:OLS 252 & 274 Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
A survey of the concepts that provide a foundation for the understanding of leadership and its relationship to the management of organizational change, with special emphasis on managing the human side of quality improvement.

OLS 388
LEADERSHIP FOR TEAM DEVELOPMENT
Prerequisite:OLS 252 & 264 Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
An in-depth study of self-directoed work teams and team processes in the work setting, with a view to understanding team functions under varying task conditions. Especially emphasized will be the leadership of teams for effective performance and maximum member satisfactions. This course deals extensively with maintenance and task behaviors of team members.

OLS 399B
PRINCIPLES OF PERSUASION
Prerequisite: Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
Persuasion and its effects, ranging from individual influences to societal impacts. Various perspectives and models of persuasion are examined, including classical and modern approaches. Both theoretical and pragmatic considerations are introduced.

OLS 474
CONFERENCE LEADERSHIP
Prerequisite:OLS 386 & OLS 388. OLS MAJORS ONLY. Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
The practical application of presenting technical information and conducting problem-solving and decision-making conferences or meetings. Emphasis is placed on leading and facilitating interactive conferences as well as structuring information for effective presentations.

OLS 484
LEADERSHIP STRATEGIES FOR QUALITY AND PRODUCTIVITY
Prerequisite:OLS 386, OLS 388, & IT 342. OLS MAUORS ONLY. Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
A study of how organizational leaders create an environment conducive to high levels of employee self-motivation, quality, and productivity. Actual case situations are used to illustrate the application of course content.

OLS 487
LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY
Prerequisite:OLS 386 & OLS 388. OLS MAJORS ONLY. Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
Review of current managerial education and development theories and practices; discussions of fundamental social, economic, and political changes affecting business and the work of managing; implications of these changes for individual manager development and continued growth.

PHYS

PHYS 218
GENERAL PHYSICS I
Prerequisite: Corequisite:
Credits: 4 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.: 3
Mechanics, heat, and sound, primarily for technology students.

PHYS 219
GENERAL PHYSICS II
Prerequisite: PHYS 218 Corequisite:
Credits: 4 Class Hrs.: 3 Lab Hrs.: 3
Electricity, light, and modem physics, primarily for technology students.

PSY

PSY 120
ELEMENTARY PSYCHOLOGY
Prerequisite: Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
Introduction to the fundamental principles of psychology, covering particularly the topics of personality, intelligence, emotion, abnormal behavior, attention, perception, learning, memory, and thinking.

SOC

SOC 100
INTRODUCTORY SOCIOLOGY
Prerequisite: Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
A survey course designed to introduce the student to the scene of human society. Fundamental concepts, description, and analysis of society, culture, the socialization process, social institutions, and social change.

STAT

STAT 301T
STATISTICS FOR TECHNOLOGY
Prerequisite: Corequisite: Credits: 3 Class Hrs.:3 Lab Hrs.:
A basic introductory statistics course with applications shown to various fields and emphasis placed on assumptions, applicability, and interpretations of various statistical techniques. Subject matter includes frequency distributions, descriptive statistics, elementary probability, normal distribution application, sampling distributions, estimation, hypothesis testing, linear regression.

June 8, 2006 -- The World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control have declared pandemic influenza the number one health threat facing the world today.

Key reasons that it is such a threat in the United States are the visibly palpable Hurricane Katrina debacle and the assurance of the Federal government that it will not contribute to any preparation to thwart a pandemic — the Feds have made it clear that pandemic influenza is a local problem.

St. Louis is one of the few cities trying to stay ahead of the pandemic curve, thanks to workshops being conducted this spring and summer that bring together area institutions and businesses in round table formats. The Business Community and Pandemic Flu Round Table is sponsored by the Washington University School of Engineering and Applied Science's Center for the Application of Information Technology (CAIT) and the University's School of Medicine. CAIT is St. Louis' center for IT training, professional development, and executive interaction for more than 25 years. More than 100 business and institutional attendees are learning to address everything from potential vaccines and medications to sick leave policy and protective gear.

Problems with Internet traffic

Information technology is an integral part of all of the problems associated with a pandemic, according to Round table director Bill Darte, CAIT senior technical associate at Washington University in St. Louis. Darte said a key, overlooked impact a pandemic would have on a community is Internet traffic and communications.

"I have significant reservations about whether the infrastructure for 'network services' will support the strategies of work-from-home that may be implemented by many organizations," Darte said." Still, I cannot say of my own knowledge that such will be the case. There are many factors that come into play. By way of example: When I work at the University, I spend a significant amount of time on the Internet. If I worked from home, what incremental impact would exist? Little, I think. On the other hand, a clerk that utilizes an internal database or application for a firm would have to communicate in the same way, but from home this would be 100 percent new traffic on the metropolitan network. And, depending upon who the ISP was for both the firm and the worker at home, there could be regional traffic loads as well."

In addition, Darte said that a pandemic could pose problems of large-scale absenteeism, and organizations and businesses need to address such concerns as sick-leave policies, protective equipment for employees, deciding who should go home and who would remain at work and keeping the illness from spreading.

He said that employees will need to successfully adapt to dramatic changes in community services — like schools, public transportation, and hospitals — while still remaining healthy, caring for their families, and maintaining the productivity that the organizations need to survive.

Since 1997, 53 countries have been infected with Avian Influenza and over half of those have happened since January 1, 2006. The U. S. government warns that the virus will make its way to the United States yet this year. Human infections have followed this spread with a case fatality rate of greater than 50 percent.

"Any community that fails to prepare with the expectation that the federal government will, at the last moment, be able to come to the rescue will be tragically wrong," according to U. S. Health and Human Services Secretary Michael Leavitt.

St. Louis businesses employ nearly three million people. Darte said the ability to survive a pandemic influenza that may last up to 18 months will depend upon preparing operations and employees for dramatically altered circumstances and to plan in concert with business partners, community agencies and government.

"To help limit risk to business and employees, CAIT is presenting this comprehensive and condensed program that will provide business leaders with the needed information to introduce practical response policy and procedures into an organization," he said. "The overall impact to St. Louis will be the aggregate response of all individuals. Since most individuals are employees, they and the community rely on businesses to help them prepare. In addition, a community website for pandemic planning and further community organization will be developed in an effort to advance overall regional preparedness."

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Journal of Information Technology Case and Application Research

Editorial Preface
Global Sourcing of Services: Vision 2020

Kiran Karnik, Ex- President of Nasscom, India

Research Article One
An IS Offshore Outsourcing Framework: Emerging Knowledge Requirements for IS Professionals

William R. King

University of Pittsburgh, USA

Research Article Two
An Elaboration of Critical Success Factors for Rural ICT Project Sustainability in Developing Countries: Exploring the DWESA Case

Caroline Pade, Brenda Mallinson, and David Sewry

Rhodes University, South Africa

Teaching Case Article
Challenges of A Small Enterprise in the Sourcing Life Cycle: Evidence from Offshoring to India

Shailendra C. Jain Palvia

Long Island University, C.W. Post Campus, USA

The Expert Opinion

An Interview with Sangita Reddy, Executive Director

Apollo Hospitals Group

Conducted and Documented by Shailendra C. Jain Palvia, Long Island University, New York, USA

Book Review
Offshoring Secrets Building & Running a Successful India Operation

By Utkarsh Rai

Published in 2008 by HappyAbout.Info, ISBN: 978-1-60005-064-9; 148 pages

Reviewed by Richard G. Platt, University of West Florida, Florida, USA

Editorial Preface
Global Sourcing of Services: Vision 2020

Kiran Karnik, Ex- President of Nasscom, India

ABSTRACT

Over the last decade, the IT and ITES sector has seen strong growth. Even in times of economic down-turn, many corporations have seen IT as a means by which they can sustain their bottom-line. The industry has been evolving rapidly with developments not only in the scope and kind of work being done, but even in its business model. A major – and growing – factor driving growth in the IT and ITES sector has been the increasing out-sourcing of work, both onshore and offshore to countries like India. This has been both the result and driver of globalization.

Research Article One
An IS Offshore Outsourcing Framework: Emerging Knowledge Requirements for IS Professionals

William R. King

University of Pittsburgh, USA

ABSTRACT

The offshoring of information systems tasks has come to be a major feature of the international IS domain. This chapter introduces some basic concepts of offshoring, some reasons companies are offshoring, how offshoring has evolved, the costs and benefits of offshoring, difficulties and risks of offshoring, and the future of offshoring. It also provides a framework for analyzing IS offshoring and outsourcing decisions and discusses the emerging offshoring-related knowledge requirements for people working in the IS field. This chapter makes a case for IS professional who are knowledgeable in offshoring management by providing management and skill requirements and implications for IS/IT educational programs.

Research Article Two
An Elaboration of Critical Success Factors for Rural ICT Project Sustainability in Developing Countries: Exploring the DWESA Case

Caroline Pade, Brenda Mallinson, and David Sewry

Rhodes University, South Africa

ABSTRACT

Rural development is significantly enhanced and supported by Information and Communication Technology (ICT), the use of which is highlighted by the emerging importance of information and knowledge as key strategic resources for social and economic development. An investigation of the use of ICT by rural people suggests that there are a number of barriers and constraints that are faced when taking advantage of these technologies in developing countries. These include access to infrastructure, limited formal education, insufficient training and capacity building, financial and political constraints, and social and cultural challenges. These challenges threaten the success and sustainability of rural ICT projects. Sustainability is key to the effectiveness of a rural ICT project, therefore it is important to understand the concept and categories associated with ICT project sustainability in rural areas. The categories of sustainability which include social and cultural, institutional, economic, political, and technological reveal critical success factors that need to be considered in the implementation and management of rural ICT projects. An exploration of the Dwesa Case study reveals the extent of the application of these critical success factors of sustainability.

Teaching Case Article
Challenges of A Small Enterprise in the Sourcing Life Cycle: Evidence from Offshoring to India

Shailendra C. Jain Palvia

Long Island University, C.W. Post Campus, USA.

ABSTRACT

Small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) have generally shied away from offshoring, because of issues of control, trust, scarce resources to manage legal contracts and service level agreements, and other inherent risks. This paper documents two year-long experiences with offshoring website design and development by a small client company based in USA to a small vendor company in India. It is instructional to compare and contrast the offshore outsourcing experiences of large enterprises to the experience of this small enterprise. Of particular interest are differences in the formality and structure of the outsourcing process and the implications of these differences.

The Expert Opinion
An Interview with Sangita Reddy, Executive Director

Apollo Hospitals Group

Conducted and Documented by Shailendra C. Jain Palvia, Long Island University, New York, USA

ABSTRACT

Ms. Sangita Reddy is the Executive Director (Operations) of Asia’s leading healthcare conglomerate, the Apollo Hospitals Group. She holds major leadership roles in the Group, as core member for decisions on policy, growth and strategy. Her dynamic qualities are central to the structure and values of the “Apollo Culture”. Her responsibilities extend to all the 44 hospitals of the group for the purposes of operational control across divisional heads. In addition, she holds specific functional responsibilities as Managing Director, Apollo Hyderabad division. Under her stewardship, Apollo Hyderabad has emerged as Asia’s first Health City – introducing a multidimensional holistic health care set up in India. She has been also instrumental in extending community based hospital projects, with special focus on rural areas. The concept of “Apollo Reach” is one of her ventures, aiming to build a string of secondary care hospitals in rural areas across India. In addition, Ms Reddy is Managing Director of Apollo Health Street. Under Ms. Reddy’s guidance, Apollo has become a leading offshore services firm and provides consultancy to some of the largest US payers and providers.

Book Review
Offshoring Secrets: Building & Running a Successful India Operation

By Utkarsh Rai

Published in 2008 by HappyAbout.Info, ISBN: 978-1-60005-064-9; 148 pages

Richard G. Platt, University of West Florida, Florida, USA

Outsourcing is defined as an arrangement in which one company provides services for another company that could also be, or usually have been, provided in-house. (http://searchcio.techtarget.com/sDefinition/0,,sid182_gci212731,00.html). Outsourcing in the IT industry is not a new phenomenon. Early providers of outsourcing in the IT industry included IBM and Electronic Data Systems (EDS). According to the EDS web site (http://www.eds.com) EDS began its service provision contracts to companies in the early 1960s and grew its business to become a 20+ billion USD technology service provider. Even in the midst of the 2008 economic recession, IBM announced a healthy profit in the third quarter and kept its profit projects for well into 2009, fueled in no small part by its earnings as a major service provider to many international corporations.

Information Technology: Its Application on the Small Scale Industries Sector

This book entitled �Information Technology- Its Application of the SSI Sector� is compilation of research papers presented in a UGC sponsored seminar organized at Cardemom Planters Association College Bodinayakanur (Madurai Kamaraj University) under the Directorship of Dr. S. Maria John, Reader in Commerce C.P.A. College Bodinayakanur. The seminar was organized mainly to focus the role of IT and its applications. Accordingly research papers were received from the faculty members of different universities and Colleges on different aspects of IT such as E-Commerce, E-Banking, Application of IT in the development of Entrepreneurship, especially SSI sector. As the contents of the articles were highly informative and are expected to be useful to the general public, research scholars, students and fellow faculty, all such articles are compiled in the form of a book. This publication is mainly intended as part of the effort in creating awareness among the readers about the need for applying IT in different walks of life.

Introduction to Information Technology & its Application

Community Solutions

The Community Solutions team oversees a suite of enterprise software applications that serve the campus business community, serving the enterprise business needs of campus administrative developers and support personnel. Our suite of services focus primarily on eCommunications and Workflow Management: Group Email, programmatic mail (EMN$INET and EMN$HTML), secure messaging, the Directory Open Records Request system, the Department Contact function of the University Department System; electronic document routing, security and infrastructure (DEFINE Internals), including the Electronic Inbox and other workflow tools for both financial and non-account-based documents, plus configuration and global data handling for *DEFINE and many DEFINE-related, web-based ERP functions. We also retain responsibility for a large part of the University's eCommerce infrastructure (online retail via TX Shop as well as back-end Credit Card Processing), as well as several legacy mainframe applications still in significant use (TXMAIL, TXSEND).

Finally, as part of our work, we are investigating unified workflow and communications tools, including especially the Kuali higher ed community source ERP system, while also doing our part to address issues with the ownership of key enterprise applications, including TX Shop and the Department System.

Tools

The Tools Team provides software solutions in three broad categories: developer tools for college and administrative IT departments; lab management tools for lab managers; and configuration tools for ITS Services. The types of services provided include mainframe data access (XML Gateway), development languages and application deployment (jwebAgent and DMG), development environments (SPoD, jEdit, Eclipse), batch job networking and submission (Task Manager), lab client setup (LabMan client and server), lab client administration (LabMan console and waitlist), and configuration utilities (BevoWare, IPSec). These tools centrally address common needs and standardize campus-wide best practices.

Identity and Access Management

Many of you know the Identify and Access Management (IAM) team as the EID team, but that's just the surface of what IAM does. The IAM team has responsibility for the central authentication, authorization, directory and identity management systems for the university. The team manages over 4 million records in the core campus identity management system, known as the uTexas Identity Manager (TIM). Our directory services (TED - uTexas Enterprise Directory, TOM - TED on the mainframe, WHIPS - White Pages Directory) are central repositories of identity details that are accessible to campus systems.

The current suite of authentication products include EID authentication services for mainframe-based services and cookie-based authentication for web services not operating on the utdirect servers. This year a new authentication service will be released that will provide secure, robust, cross-platform authentication with consistent session management. Our authorization products include Apollo, a mainframe authorization repository with customizable application profiles and group management functionality, and *DPUSER, an authorization system for mainframe services including the management of Natural and Adabas resources. The IAM team also supports the ID Center by maintaining the ID Card system and the Official Visitor system.

Software Development Support

The Software Development and Support team (SWDS) provides application development for ITS administrative applications and contract services for departments. Our administrative services focus on providing users with access to the many services ITS offers. Among these services are those that allow for students, faculty, and staff to order, manage, and pay for core services such as email accounts and disk storage space through TRAC; telephone, voicemail service, and Internet wiring through MySoft and Smartvoice; and software through Software Distributions and Sales. The contract service we provide allows departments that don't have their own software developers to have customized applications built for their needs. These applications include a suite of academic services for the Jackson School of Geosciences; AdGrad, a social networking site for the Advertising department in the College of Communications; and Odonata Central, an application developed to assist Dr. John Abbott with his research of dragonflies and damselflies. Many of you were familiar with the Agile Contracts Team (ACT) in ITS Applications. While this team does not exist formally anymore we still do contract development, it's just not focused within one team.

Web Technologies

The Web Technologies Team maintains a publishing infrastructure for the University's primary Web Server, Web Central, and the University's portal, UT Direct. We provide tools, consulting, and technical documentation to assist Webmasters and Web developers throughout campus. These tools include Web scanning and monitoring tools (Urchin and WebXM), search tools (htdig), templates, content management (Oracle), database service (MySQL), and various Web publishing utilities. The team also provides accessibility and usability consulting and services to campus webmasters, as well as content development, Web design, virtual hosting service, digital video, and multimedia projects for campus departments.

Application Security Team

The Application Security Team (AST) supports secure software application development practices on campus. We develop and deliver courses and guidelines (e.g. Secure Application Development in PHP), provide access to and expertise in the use of supporting tools and technologies (e.g. AppScan Enterprise), and develop and maintain associated systems and tools (e.g. the Application Registry). The team provides also provides expertise in testing web applications for security vulnerabilities.