144-A Mount Auburn Street Cambridge, MA 02138 www.thewilliamsagency.net 617.395.7680
Tech Networks of Boston Constant Contact Newsletter
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Tech Networks of Boston ISSUE
NEWS FROM
07
TECH NETWORKS OF BOSTON
JULY 2011
BostonTechie this issue
No Monkey Business: Tech Networks Founder Susan Labandibar Finds Joy in Giving Back Check out the latest issue of Exhale Magazine, profiling
Cloud Computing, Part II P.1 Effective Non-Profit Websites P.2 Social Network Fundraising P.3 Client Appreciation Event P.4 Hutan Project Updates P.4 Boston Techie: Nick Deluca P.4
What You Need to Know About Computing in the Cloud - Part II
Susan Labandibar’s commitment to her many charitable causes. Online: http://exhalelifestyle.com/2011-33/NoMonkeyBusiness.html
Tech Networks of Boston’s Client Appreciation Event On June 23, 2011, Tech Networks of Boston held an afternoon of great networking and education at its annual Client Appreciation Luncheon.
Last month in Boston Techie, we discussed
creating, manipulating and sharing information.
the advantages of Cloud computing for smaller
Cloud software can limit these choices. And,
organizations. Cloud computing can be a low-
your access to data is often only as good as
cost, convenient alternative to building an
the broadband connection that links you — and
on-premises server infrastructure. But Cloud-
the Cloud service provider —to the internet.
based software is not the right choice for every software application. As with any solution, Cloud computing some drawbacks.
A final consideration is cost. Some Cloud services are free, or nearly free. But, per-user subscription pricing can be costly over time.
For example, risks are handled differently
For example, a 25-user company that uses a
when software is delivered via the Cloud.
Cloud-based solution priced at $25 per user
For all its benefits, the Cloud is owned and
will spend $30,000 over four years. This is
operated by people you don’t know. You have
enough to buy and maintain an entire server.
to trust that they use good equipment, provide sufficient
security,
and knowledgeable.
and
are
experienced
The bottom line:
At some point in the
If a server located in
future, perhaps all software will be hosted in
Held at the environmentally-
your office breaks, your files can usually be
the Cloud. In-house servers could become as
friendly Seaport Hotel Bos-
recovered by local vendors. If your Cloud-
antiquated as computer punch card readers.
ton, executive directors and
based file or mail server crashes, goes offline
Until that day arrives, you should choose a
managers from TNB’s local
or loses data—you are at the mercy of the
solution within your comfort zone that meets
provider. For this reason, some businesses
your business needs.
clients were finally able to meet in person the TNB Help Desk and other support staff. Also in attendance was TNB’s Accounting Department; (More on Page 3)
prefer to use the Cloud for backup purposes only. Live data is still stored onsite.
Read Part I of TNB CTO, Eliot Sennett’s analysis of the Cloud at blog.techboston.com
Flexibility can sometimes be an issue in Cloud computing. When you use your own software and data, you have many options for
Print Newsletter
Tech Networks of Boston
Client Appreciation Event Invitations
Tech Networks of Boston
Helping those who help others. At Tech Networks, we pride ourselves on leveraging technology to build a better world. Building partnerships with our nonprofit clients is just one way we do that. In addition to top-notch technical services, nonprofits that sign up with Tech Networks can take advantage of a some special extras: Features in our Boston Charity Events newsletter. Each month, thousands of readers keep up with fundraisers in and around Boston. List your event and gain the advantage of a wide and interested audience. Listing on giving.techboston.com. At our very own philanthropy site, visitors can create pages for their favorite charities and enlist friends to help raise funds. Organizations can solicit and track donations or set up pages to handle ticketing for upcoming events. This site gives our charitable clients a home on the web where they can immediately start collecting donations online. Special referral incentives. Our referral program lets our partners split their commission between The Hutan Project and another charity of their choice. Nonprofits that make a referral to TNB can even elect to keep the fee for themselves! The right tech at the right price. We have the ability to work within the tightest of non-profit budgets by using special server and system designs, and by taking full advantage of discounts and financing offered by manufacturers to nonprofits. Our new suite of cloud solutions offers high quality service while minimizing costly investments.
Learn more at techboston.com/ nonprofit.htm
574 Dorchester Avenue South Boston, MA 02127 phone: 617.269.0299 | fax: 888.527.9333 | techboston.com
Tech Networks of Boston Problems prevented, solutions found, productivity enhanced.
Tech Networks makes everyone’s job easier. Tech Networks ensures that your operation runs better than you ever imagined- for less money than you ever thought possible. For a low monthly fee and a lot less hassle, you’ll receive our comprehensive IT program consisting of our three proprietary services:
TechShield.
Defend your network against intrusion, system failure and data corruption- all without site visits. TechShield actively monitors and remotely repairs backups, firewalls, switches, routers, servers and workstations. For everyday problems, you can count on expert phone support from our Microsoft Gold Certified technicians.
TechOnsite.
Nothing is more effective than having an experienced IT resource. Regularly scheduled TechOnsite visits from a Microsoft Certified IT Professional provides routine desk-side support for backups, email and messaging, training, technical support, infrastructure, etc. By proactively servicing your computers and network, you’ll improve productivity while minimizing costly downtime.
TechAdvisor.
Gain a technological competitive edge by working with a senior Microsoft Certified IT Professional. Leverage our expertise to develop a costeffective strategic plan to improve your operational efficiency, network security and user satisfaction. Let TechAdvisor help you prepare your business for the future while maximizing your IT investment.
By continuously protecting your data and infrastructure, regularly tuning up your hardware and network, and helping you stay ahead of the technology curve, we make your job easier and your colleagues happier. Find out how partnering with Tech Networks can improve your company’s productivity, outlook and bottom line. Visit techboston.com or call 617-269-0299 and schedule a technology review today.
Tech Networks of Boston
Tech Southie: Your high-tech resource for South Boston.
We specialize in small business IT support, green computer hardware, refurbished computers and high-quality service. SERVICES OFFERED: •
Operating System Installation
•
PC Tune-ups
•
Virus/Spyware/Malware/Scareware Removal
•
Data Migration
•
Data Recovery
•
Hardware Installation
•
Backup Solutions
•
Home and Small Business Network Solutions
•
Cloud Solutions
•
Remote Support
•
Instructional Computer Classes
Visit techboston.com/retailoverview.htm, or call 617-269-0299 to learn more.
Tech Networks of Boston
EMPLOYEE
HANDBOOK
Tech Networks of Boston
Client stories from Tech Networks. ALLIANCE FOR ANIMALS, a pro-bono client since 2006
At Tech Networks of Boston, every dog has its day. It’s a dog-eat-dog world,
but that doesn’t stop Tech Networks of Boston from supporting organizations that help sustain the environment, people and animals. The demand for services at Boston’s only no-kill animal shelter was burgeoning. With only one computer to manage appointments, clinical records, payroll and other daily activities, the Alliance for Animals’ IT and phone infrastructure needed an expansion.
Teck Networks donated equipment to set up a peer-to-peer network for the three workstations, then added network capabilities to store client medical and billing records. After experiencing the work flow disruptions caused by phone and Internet downtime, Tech Networks of Boston replaced network equipment too.
records system to manage all of its services, including shelter check-ins, veterinary services and billing, to their fullest potential. Even after the application’s database was corrupted after a user error, Tech Networks of Boston was able to restore 20 of clients’ records.
Problem: A non-profit couldn’t keep up with the demand for their services.
“Alliance for Animals was able to use a sophisticated line-of-business application Solution: Tech Networks to manage all of its services, of Boston donated an IT to its fullest potential.” infrastructure plan, hardware
As part of its Environment, People and Animals discount program, Tech Networks of Boston provided the and expertise. Alliance of Animals with a detailed IT Finally, the Alliance for Animals was able infrastructure plan for the next year. to use a more sophisticated medical
Visit techboston.com/clientstories and learn more about how Tech Networks turns problems into solutions.
Tech Networks of Boston
OUR RESOLUTION: To provide you with our
best possible service. Thank you for having us as your technology partner. Best wishes toward a productive 2011!
RESOLUTION
HAPPY NEW YEAR! Sincerely, Tech Networks of Boston P.S. Don’t forget to check out January’s “Resolution Issue” of BOSTON TECHIE! Coming soon to your InBox! 574 dorchester avenue, south boston, ma 02127 phone: 617•269•0299 | techboston.com
Promotional “Happy New Year” Cards
Tech Networks of Boston
Dear CUSTOMER, Computers make our lives easier, but we know that sometimes that’s not always the case. At Tech Networks, we work hard to fix technical bugs and glitches, like the DESCRIPTION issues you had. You are our number one priority. That’s why we’re sending you this rechargeable gift card - so you can grab a cup of coffee or hot chocolate and take a moment to relax. Thank you for partnering with us! We are proud to be your technology provider. Warm wishes from all of us at Tech Networks of Boston. . Sincerely Tech Name | Tech Title email@techboston.com Tech Networks of Boston
Massachusetts Literacy Month
MEDIA ADVISORY November 2, 2011
15th Family Literacy Month Celebration at Boston Children’s Museum Offers a Fun-Filled Night of Hands-on Learning Activities for Families
What:
Governor Deval Patrick has declared November as Family Literacy Month. This year marks the 15th year that the Commonwealth is celebrating family literacy. The celebration kicks off with a fun-filled night of family activities, stories read aloud by local dignitaries, and take-home resources. This annual event is hosted by Boston Children’s Museum in partnership with the Massachusetts Family Literacy Consortium and Target $1 Friday Night. Commissioner Mitchell Chester from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, Commissioner Sherri Reneé Killins from the Department of Early Education and Care, and Paul Reville, Secretary of Education, will each read a children’s story to small groups of families at this event. The event will also include dozens of local providers who will provide hands-on activities throughout the Museum for families that demonstrate ways parents can engage with their children at home to support their children’s literacy development. There are a variety of activities offered in multiple languages for children of all ages. Participating agencies include: ReadBoston, JumpStart, Children’s Trust Fund, Raising a Reader, Wiggles Press, Kool Smiles, Neighborhood Health Plan, WIC (Women Infants & Children), Countdown to Kindergarten, Newton Free Library, TERC, Boston Medical Healthnet Plan and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Office for Nutrition, Health and Safety. The Boston event is sponsored by Boston Medical Healthnet Plan and Reach Out and Read. For more information on celebrating Family Literacy Month, visit: http://www.doe.mass.edu/familylit/month/announcement.html
Where:
Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210, (617) 426-6500
When:
Friday, November 4, 2011 from 6:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Contact:
Nicola Williams, The Williams Agency 857-204-6108 (cell); 617-395-7680 (office) PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES AND INTERVIEWS AVAILABLE ###
Massachusetts Literacy Month Come & Celebrate
FAMILY LITERACY MONTH
Friday, November 4, 2011 Time:
6:00 - 8:30 PM
Location:
Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210
Cost:
Target $1 Friday Nights are offered every Friday from 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• Fun Family Activities • Take Home Resources • And Much More!
Hosted by: Boston Children’s Museum in partnership with the Massachusetts Family Literacy Consortium. $1 Friday Nights sponsored by Target.
Contact: Kacy Hughes, Boston Children’s Museum, 617-426-6500 ext. 272
English Flier
Massachusetts Literacy Month Participe, Celebre & Conosca.
MÊS DE ALFABETIZAÇÃO DA FAMÍLIA
Sexta-Feira, 4 de novembro de 2011 Horário:
6:00 - 8:30 PM
Lugar:
Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210
Preço:
Target $1 Friday Nights acontecem todas as sextas-feiras de 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• Atividades e Diversões para toda a família • Informaçõe e Panfletos gratuitos • E Muito Mais!
Apresentado por: Boston Children’s Museum Em um convênio com Massachusetts Family Literacy Consortium. $1 Friday Nights é patrocinado por Target
Contato: Kacy Hughes, Boston Children’s Museum, 617-426-6500 ramal 272
Portuguese Translation Flier
Massachusetts Literacy Month Venga a Celebrar
EL MES DE ALFABETIZACIÓN FAMILIAR
Viernes, 4 de Noviembre de 2011 Horario:
6:00 a 8:30 PM
Dónde:
Boston Children’s Museum 308 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210
Costo:
Target ofrece todas las Noches de Viernes por un $1 de 5 a 9 pm
•
Actividades Divertidas para toda la Familia
• •
Información Para Llevar Y Mucho Más!
Presentado por: Boston Children’s Museum En asociación con el Massachusetts Family Literacy Consortium Noches de Viernes por un $1 patrocinado por: Target
Contacto: Kacy Hughes, Boston Children’s Museum, 617-426-6500 ext. 272
Spanish Translation Flier
Massachusetts Literacy Month CELEBRATE MASSACHUSETTS FAMILY LITERACY MONTH!
FREE: • • • •
Kids Books Children’s Museum Merry-Go-Round Rides StoryWalk TM
Bem-vindo! Hoan nghênh! Soo Dhawow!
Welcome! Bienvenidos! Bienvenue! Dobro pozalovat’!
Saturday, November 12, 2011 Free Event! Come for a family day of fun and learning! Time:
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location:
Children’s Museum at Holyoke 444 Dwight Street, Holyoke, MA 01040
Contact:
For more information, please contact holyokefamilyliteracy@gmail.com,
or call: (413)-552-2913
Hosted by: Children’s Museum at Holyoke in partnership with the Massachusetts Family Literacy Consortium Partners: HeadStart: Holyoke, Chicopee and Springfield • Holyoke Public Schools • Greater Holyoke Coordinated Family and Community Engagement • Holyoke Community College • Northampton Public Schools • Pathways to Family Success • Children’s Museum at Holyoke
Massachusetts Literacy Month CELEBREMOS EL MES DE LA LECTURA FAMILIAR EN MASSACHUSETTS
GRATIS: • • • •
Libros para niňos Children’s Museum Vueltas en el carrusel StoryWalk TM
Bem-vindo! Hoan nghênh! Soo Dhawow!
Welcome! Bienvenidos! Bienvenue! Dobro pozalovat’!
Sábado 12 de Noviembre de 2011 Evento Gratuito:
Ven a pasar un día de diversión y aprendizaje en familia.
Horario:
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Lugar:
Children’s Museum at Holyoke 444 Dwight Street, Holyoke, MA 01040
Información: Para más información, escriba a holyokefamilyliteracy@gmail.com
o llame: (413)-552-2913
Spanish Translation Flier
Massachusetts Literacy Month
Speaker Poster
Massachusetts Literacy Month MASSACHUSETTS FAMILY LITERACY CELEBRATION
“Celebrate Reading” with
Brian Chevalier An Interactive Musical Performance that Encourages You to Read! Play instruments, move and sing along!
Performances at 1:30 and 2:45
Entertainment Poster