Why This Website?

Enterprise Architecture and Information Technology Can Make a Difference

I am one of those people who think that enterprise architecture and information technology are exciting.  Organizations can use data to make better decisions which in turn can improve results - both in terms of profits and benefits to stakeholders.  This website is a platform where I can help others by sharing what I have learned.  In addition, it is a way for me to exchange ideas and knowledge with others who have gained insights into enterprise architecture and information technology.

Check my Bio for more information about my background.

Cindi Howson Tells BI Secrets at TDWI MN

It was a treat to see Cindy Howson present best practice approaches and industry findings in the area of Business Intelligence (BI).  She emphasized that leaders are needed who understand both business and IT.  In addition, she explained 8 secrets of BI Success.  This talk builds on an updates information in her popular book Successfull Business Intelligence, Secrets to Making BI a Killer App.  A big take away for me, is the importance of bringing BI to the entire enterprise and that people on the line can make a difference in their organizations.  She presented a number of case studies including Continental Airlines and Emergency Medical Associates who have used BI to improve value delivered to customers and profits to stockholders.

eLearningCurve Releases Conceptual Data Modeling Course

Adapting an in person course to a format that is ready for eLearning is a snap right?  Recently I worked with the eLearningCurve company to bring my Conceptual Data Modeling course to the eLearning audience.  Olga Maydanchik, Director of ELC Courseware Production, was a great help.  In a live class, we would interact and work out examples together.  What can do we do in a recorded class?  In this class, we work through examples and do our best to make it feel like we are interacting through a whiteboard and virtual sticky notes much like I would do in a team setting.  Check out the course announcement.

Steve Hoberman Rocks at DAMA-MN Day!

The enthusiasm of Steve Hoberman was evident at this years DAMA Minnesota Education Day!  Steve shared his Data Modeling Scorecard and challenged the attendees with data modeling problems intended to inspire thought and learning.  As a fellow data modeling nut and educator, I came away inspired and with ideas on how to better do and teach data modeling. Steve is one of my favorite authors and has written books including: Data Modeling Made Simple and Data Modeling for Business.