We have, at our disposal, the most powerful information source in the world--the Internet. It's connected, searchable, and consumable 24/7, at will, any time we have a need. Want to know what blue whales eat? You're seconds away from the answer. Want to know how to configure a server or application? You're seconds away from the answer. The web, in all its glory, has become a replacement for our brains, a replacement for real knowledge, and it kind of freaks me out. *Read more...

"We need to move past worrying about the entry points (because most security breaches are done by people who already have an entry point) and concentrate on how our authorities and settings are configured."
--David Shirey *Read more...

Business Computer Design (BCD) has enhanced WebSmart PHP, a PHP web application development tool for IBM i, to bolster developer productivity, leverage existing RPG programs, and make it easier to work in environments with multiple database or server platforms. Version 2.0 offers a new wizard that eliminates the need to code the many required lines of PHP to call existing PRG programs. The wizard also guides developers by prompting them for the program name, library, and parameters and generates the PHP code.

Also new to Version 2.0 are expanded template capabilities. WebSmart PHP templates include built-in programming logic and functionality to help developers create professional-looking programs. A new feature lets customers copy elements from existing program templates. WebSmart PHP includes more than 75 pre-configured application templates. The update creates a new template family and incorporates the template files on your PC. All related CSS files on the IFS will automatically and properly reference the new CSS file and director in the new templates.

I just got out of a web presentation from CYBRA on its new add-on to its System i-based printing solution, MarkMagic. This new functionality lets users create web-based portals where their customers can securely sign in and find all the information they need. This helps cut down on time-consuming tasks, such as physically sending out statements, invoices, purchase orders, or other forms to the customer. Instead, MarkMagic On Demand creates a self-service web tool that lets customers retrieve the forms they need when they need them. *Read more...

With looksoftware's snap solution pack for mobile front ends, i back-end applications can integrate with the latest generation of mobile devices, such as Apple's popular iPhone3G. "We think this is great news for the i community and more proof that the i is a great back end that can easily connect to the market-leading front ends," reports Swina Kalwar, marketing spokeswoman for the Australian-based software company. *Read More...