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  28. <itunes:summary>A podcast for and about IT Service Providers including computer businesses, field service technicians, solution providers, VARs, independent contractors, resellers and other IT professionals who own or want to start their own IT business.</itunes:summary>
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  54. <item>
  55. <title>TFF-71 &#8211; How To Limit Liability In Your IT Business</title>
  56. <link>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-71-limit-liability-business/</link>
  57. <comments>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-71-limit-liability-business/#comments</comments>
  58. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rick]]></dc:creator>
  59. <pubDate>Sun, 08 Feb 2015 14:00:58 +0000</pubDate>
  60. <category><![CDATA[Episodes]]></category>
  61. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/?p=456</guid>
  62.  
  63. <description><![CDATA[<p>We continue our discussion with an IT professional who will tell us about the risks in operating an IT business and how to minimize them. He will tell us what a tech business can be potentially liable for and offer some tools and tips to help protect ourselves and our businesses from such liability. TechPodcasts ... <a title="TFF-71 &#8211; How To Limit Liability In Your IT Business" class="read-more" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-71-limit-liability-business/" aria-label="More on TFF-71 &#8211; How To Limit Liability In Your IT Business">Read more</a></p>
  64. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-71-limit-liability-business/">TFF-71 &#8211; How To Limit Liability In Your IT Business</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast">The Force Field Podcast</a>.</p>
  65. ]]></description>
  66. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>We continue our discussion with an IT professional who will tell us about the risks in operating an IT business and how to minimize them. He will tell us what a tech business can be potentially liable for and offer some tools and tips to help protect ourselves and our businesses from such liability.</p>
  67. <p><strong>TechPodcasts Promo Tag :00<br />
  68. Intro :10</strong></p>
  69. <p><strong>Support our Sponsors! Visit them at <a title="The Force Field" href="http://www.theforcefield.net" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Force Field</a>!</strong></p>
  70. <p><strong>Intro to Topic 2:01</strong><br />
  71. We continue our discussion with Bryce Whitty, an IT professional and owner of <a title="Technibble" href="http://www.technibble.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Technibble.com</a>, a popular web site and forum for IT professionals and business owners. We&#8217;ll talk about the different types of insurance available to techs in the field, some of the risky situations that can quickly put a tech in the IT business out of business, and how you can cover your company and protect yourself from such potential peril. If you would like a copy of Bryce&#8217;s book, <a title="The Computer Business Kit v3" href="http://wi.ontraport.com/t?orid=20&amp;opid=1&amp;sid=TFF-71" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Computer Business Kit v3</a>, it&#8217;s available at now.</p>
  72. <p><strong>Interview with Bryce Whitty &#8211; How To Limit Liability In Your IT Business 2:58</strong></p>
  73. <p><strong>How To Get The Computer Business Kit v3 31:24</strong></p>
  74. <p><strong>Order your copy of <a title="The Computer Business Kit v3" href="http://wi.ontraport.com/t?orid=20&amp;opid=1&amp;sid=TFF-71" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Computer Business Kit v3</a> today!</strong></p>
  75. <p><strong>Wrap up and Close 32:20</strong></p>
  76. <p>Comments, questions or suggestions? Send them in to comments@theforcefield.net or post them in <a title="http://www.theforcefield.net/forums/index.php?board=205.0" href="http://www.theforcefield.net/forums/index.php?board=205.0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Force Field Forums</a>. Feedback on this topic will be read by the host and included in future episodes of the show. Visit us at <a title="http://www.theforcefield.net" href="http://www.theforcefield.net" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.theforcefield.net</a>!</p>
  77. <p>©2015 Savoia Media. All rights reserved.</p>
  78. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-71-limit-liability-business/">TFF-71 &#8211; How To Limit Liability In Your IT Business</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast">The Force Field Podcast</a>.</p>
  79. ]]></content:encoded>
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  81. <slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
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  83.  
  84. <itunes:subtitle>We continue our discussion with an IT professional who will tell us about the risks in operating an IT business and how to minimize them. He will tell us what a tech business can be potentially liable for and offer some tools and tips to help protect o...</itunes:subtitle>
  85. <itunes:summary><![CDATA[We continue our discussion with an IT professional who will tell us about the risks in operating an IT business and how to minimize them. He will tell us what a tech business can be potentially liable for and offer some tools and tips to help protect ourselves and our businesses from such liability.<br />
  86. TechPodcasts Promo Tag :00<br />
  87. Intro :10<br />
  88. Support our Sponsors! Visit them at <a title="The Force Field" href="http://www.theforcefield.net" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Force Field</a>!<br />
  89. Intro to Topic 2:01<br />
  90. We continue our discussion with Bryce Whitty, an IT professional and owner of <a title="Technibble" href="http://www.technibble.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Technibble.com</a>, a popular web site and forum for IT professionals and business owners. We&#8217;ll talk about the different types of insurance available to techs in the field, some of the risky situations that can quickly put a tech in the IT business out of business, and how you can cover your company and protect yourself from such potential peril. If you would like a copy of Bryce&#8217;s book, <a title="The Computer Business Kit v3" href="http://wi.ontraport.com/t?orid=20&amp;opid=1&amp;sid=TFF-71" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Computer Business Kit v3</a>, it&#8217;s available at now.<br />
  91. Interview with Bryce Whitty &#8211; How To Limit Liability In Your IT Business 2:58<br />
  92. How To Get The Computer Business Kit v3 31:24<br />
  93. Order your copy of <a title="The Computer Business Kit v3" href="http://wi.ontraport.com/t?orid=20&amp;opid=1&amp;sid=TFF-71" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Computer Business Kit v3</a> today!<br />
  94. Wrap up and Close 32:20<br />
  95. Comments, questions or suggestions? Send them in to comments@theforcefield.net or post them in <a title="http://www.theforcefield.net/forums/index.php?board=205.0" href="http://www.theforcefield.net/forums/index.php?board=205.0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Force Field Forums</a>. Feedback on this topic will be read by the host and included in future episodes of the show. Visit us at <a title="http://www.theforcefield.net" href="http://www.theforcefield.net" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.theforcefield.net</a>!<br />
  96. ©2015 Savoia Media. All rights reserved.<br />]]></itunes:summary>
  97. <itunes:author>Rick</itunes:author>
  98. <itunes:image href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/wp-content/uploads/powerpress/FF1400.jpg" />
  99. <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  100. <itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit>
  101. <itunes:duration>33:00</itunes:duration>
  102. </item>
  103. <item>
  104. <title>TFF-70 &#8211; Customers Who Scam</title>
  105. <link>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-70-customers-scam/</link>
  106. <comments>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-70-customers-scam/#comments</comments>
  107. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rick]]></dc:creator>
  108. <pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2015 04:00:27 +0000</pubDate>
  109. <category><![CDATA[Episodes]]></category>
  110. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/?p=449</guid>
  111.  
  112. <description><![CDATA[<p>Today we&#8217;ll talk with an IT professional who will tell us about some of the ways techs can be scammed by their own customers. He will tell us what to watch out for and discuss ways to protect yourself and your business from getting ripped off. TechPodcasts Promo Tag :00 Intro :10 Support our Sponsors! ... <a title="TFF-70 &#8211; Customers Who Scam" class="read-more" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-70-customers-scam/" aria-label="More on TFF-70 &#8211; Customers Who Scam">Read more</a></p>
  113. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-70-customers-scam/">TFF-70 &#8211; Customers Who Scam</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast">The Force Field Podcast</a>.</p>
  114. ]]></description>
  115. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Today we&#8217;ll talk with an IT professional who will tell us about some of the ways techs can be scammed by their own customers. He will tell us what to watch out for and discuss ways to protect yourself and your business from getting ripped off.</p>
  116. <p><strong>TechPodcasts Promo Tag :00<br />
  117. Intro :10</strong></p>
  118. <p><strong>Support our Sponsors! Visit them at <a target="_blank" title="The Force Field" href="http://www.theforcefield.net">The Force Field</a>!</strong></p>
  119. <p><strong>Intro to Topic 1:58</strong><br />
  120. We interview Bryce Whitty, an IT professional and owner of <a target="_blank" title="Technibble" href="http://www.technibble.com">Technibble.com</a>, a popular web site and forum for IT professionals and business owners. We&#8217;ll learn about some of the most common scams perpetrated against IT techs, talk about some of the red flags to watch out for when dealing with questionable customers, and swap our own personal experiences with customers who tried to take advantage of us.</p>
  121. <p><strong>Interview with Bryce Whitty &#8211; Customers Who Scam 3:31</strong></p>
  122. <p><strong>Order your copy of <a target="_blank" title="The Computer Business Kit v3" href="http://wi.ontraport.com/t?orid=20&#038;opid=1&#038;sid=TFF-70">The Computer Business Kit v3</a> today!</strong></p>
  123. <p><strong>Episode 71 Teaser 27:50</strong></p>
  124. </p>
  125. <p><strong>Wrap up and Close 29:14</strong></p>
  126. </p>
  127. <p>Comments, questions or suggestions? Send them in to comments@theforcefield.net or post them in <a target="_blank" title="http://www.theforcefield.net/forums/index.php?board=205.0" href="http://www.theforcefield.net/forums/index.php?board=205.0">The Force Field Forums</a>. Feedback on this topic will be read by the host and included in future episodes of the show. Visit us at <a target="_blank" title="http://www.theforcefield.net" href="http://www.theforcefield.net">http://www.theforcefield.net</a>!</p>
  128. <p>©2015 Savoia Media. All rights reserved.</p>
  129. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-70-customers-scam/">TFF-70 &#8211; Customers Who Scam</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast">The Force Field Podcast</a>.</p>
  130. ]]></content:encoded>
  131. <wfw:commentRss>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-70-customers-scam/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  132. <slash:comments>2</slash:comments>
  133. <enclosure url="http://media.blubrry.com/theforcefield/media.techpodcasts.com/theforcefield/traffic.libsyn.com/theforcefield/The_Force_Field_70.mp3" length="28862818" type="audio/mpeg" />
  134.  
  135. <itunes:subtitle>Today we’ll talk with an IT professional who will tell us about some of the ways techs can be scammed by their own customers. He will tell us what to watch out for and discuss ways to protect yourself and your business from getting ripped off.</itunes:subtitle>
  136. <itunes:summary><![CDATA[Today we&#8217;ll talk with an IT professional who will tell us about some of the ways techs can be scammed by their own customers. He will tell us what to watch out for and discuss ways to protect yourself and your business from getting ripped off.<br />
  137. TechPodcasts Promo Tag :00<br />
  138. Intro :10<br />
  139. Support our Sponsors! Visit them at <a target="_blank" title="The Force Field" href="http://www.theforcefield.net">The Force Field</a>!<br />
  140. Intro to Topic 1:58<br />
  141. We interview Bryce Whitty, an IT professional and owner of <a target="_blank" title="Technibble" href="http://www.technibble.com">Technibble.com</a>, a popular web site and forum for IT professionals and business owners. We&#8217;ll learn about some of the most common scams perpetrated against IT techs, talk about some of the red flags to watch out for when dealing with questionable customers, and swap our own personal experiences with customers who tried to take advantage of us.<br />
  142. Interview with Bryce Whitty &#8211; Customers Who Scam 3:31<br />
  143. Order your copy of <a target="_blank" title="The Computer Business Kit v3" href="http://wi.ontraport.com/t?orid=20&#038;opid=1&#038;sid=TFF-70">The Computer Business Kit v3</a> today!<br />
  144. Episode 71 Teaser 27:50<br />
  145. <br />
  146. Wrap up and Close 29:14<br />
  147. <br />
  148. Comments, questions or suggestions? Send them in to comments@theforcefield.net or post them in <a target="_blank" title="http://www.theforcefield.net/forums/index.php?board=205.0" href="http://www.theforcefield.net/forums/index.php?board=205.0">The Force Field Forums</a>. Feedback on this topic will be read by the host and included in future episodes of the show. Visit us at <a target="_blank" title="http://www.theforcefield.net" href="http://www.theforcefield.net">http://www.theforcefield.net</a>!<br />
  149. ©2015 Savoia Media. All rights reserved.<br />]]></itunes:summary>
  150. <itunes:author>Rick</itunes:author>
  151. <itunes:image href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/wp-content/uploads/powerpress/FF1400.jpg" />
  152. <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  153. <itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit>
  154. <itunes:duration>29:55</itunes:duration>
  155. </item>
  156. <item>
  157. <title>The Force Field to carry LIVE coverage of CES 2015</title>
  158. <link>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/the-force-field-to-carry-live-coverage-of-ces-2015/</link>
  159. <comments>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/the-force-field-to-carry-live-coverage-of-ces-2015/#comments</comments>
  160. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rick]]></dc:creator>
  161. <pubDate>Tue, 06 Jan 2015 07:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
  162. <category><![CDATA[Rick Rant]]></category>
  163. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/the-force-field-to-carry-live-coverage-of-ces-2015/</guid>
  164.  
  165. <description><![CDATA[<p>Since 2008, The Force Field has carried video coverage of The Consumer Electronics Show. 2015 marks our eighth year of coverage from the floor of CES. The front page of The Force Field web portal will feature 24/7 video coverage of CES 2015, including a LIVE stream during the event. As in years past we ... <a title="The Force Field to carry LIVE coverage of CES 2015" class="read-more" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/the-force-field-to-carry-live-coverage-of-ces-2015/" aria-label="More on The Force Field to carry LIVE coverage of CES 2015">Read more</a></p>
  166. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/the-force-field-to-carry-live-coverage-of-ces-2015/">The Force Field to carry LIVE coverage of CES 2015</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast">The Force Field Podcast</a>.</p>
  167. ]]></description>
  168. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Since 2008, The Force Field has carried video coverage of <a href="http://www.cesweb.org/" target="_blank" title="The Consumer Electronics Show">The Consumer Electronics Show</a>. 2015 marks our eighth year of coverage from the floor of CES. The front page of The Force Field web portal will feature <a href="http://www.theforcefield.net/portal/" target="_blank" title="24/7 video coverage of CES 2015">24/7 video coverage of CES 2015</a>, including a LIVE stream during the event. As in years past we will stream both recorded features and a live stream courtesy of The <a href="http://www.techpodcasts.com/theforcefield/" target="_blank" title="http://www.techpodcasts.com/theforcefield/#">Tech Podcast Network</a> (TPN). The Force Field Podcast is a proud member of TPN.</p>
  169. <p>In addition to the live video stream, the front page of TheForceField.Net will also feature a live chat, where viewers around the world can discuss CES 2015 in real time. </p>
  170. <p>To complete the coverage, The Force Field Forums will also have the <a href="http://www.theforcefield.net/forums/index.php?board=263.0" target="_blank" title="CES 2015 Forums">CES 2015 Forums</a> open and available to the public, for the latest comments, debates and discussions during CES 2015.</p>
  171. <p>The event begins 12 Noon EST (9 AM PST) Tuesday, January 6, 2015.<!-- Check the <a target="_blank" title="The Force Field TPN CES 2013 Program Schedule" href="images/tff%20tpn%20ces%202012%20program%20schedule.png" mce_href="http://www.theforcefield.net/portal/images/tff%20tpn%20ces%202012%20program%20schedule.png">The Force Field TPN CES 2015 Program Schedule for a list of program times and events. --></p>
  172. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/the-force-field-to-carry-live-coverage-of-ces-2015/">The Force Field to carry LIVE coverage of CES 2015</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast">The Force Field Podcast</a>.</p>
  173. ]]></content:encoded>
  174. <wfw:commentRss>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/the-force-field-to-carry-live-coverage-of-ces-2015/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  175. <slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
  176. </item>
  177. <item>
  178. <title>Add Your Company!</title>
  179. <link>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/add-your-company/</link>
  180. <comments>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/add-your-company/#respond</comments>
  181. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rick]]></dc:creator>
  182. <pubDate>Mon, 16 Jun 2014 03:27:52 +0000</pubDate>
  183. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorised]]></category>
  184. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/add-your-company/</guid>
  185.  
  186. <description><![CDATA[<p>Add your company to The Force Field Business Resource Directory! Get the word out about your company, product or service to IT professionals everywhere with a listing in The Force Field Business Resource Directory. A basic listing is FREE! Simply register for your FREE membership to The Force Field web portal and fill out the ... <a title="Add Your Company!" class="read-more" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/add-your-company/" aria-label="More on Add Your Company!">Read more</a></p>
  187. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/add-your-company/">Add Your Company!</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast">The Force Field Podcast</a>.</p>
  188. ]]></description>
  189. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Add your company to The Force Field Business Resource Directory!</strong></p>
  190. <p>Get the word out about your company, product or service to IT professionals everywhere with a listing in The Force Field Business Resource Directory. A basic listing is <strong>FREE</strong>!</p>
  191. <p>Simply <a href="http://www.theforcefield.net/portal/component/users/?view=registration" target="_blank" title="User Registration">register for your FREE membership</a> to The Force Field web portal and <a href="http://www.theforcefield.net/portal/business-directory-entry-form.html?task=entry.add&#038;sid=1" target="_blank" title="Add Your Company to The Force Field Directory">fill out the form</a>. Once your submission is approved, your company will be listed and accessible to thousands of IT professionals and computer business owners on the web.</p>
  192. <div style="text-align: center;"> <center></p>
  193. <table id="directory listing plans" width="50%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
  194. <thead>
  195. <tr>
  196. <th colspan="4" bgcolor="#028181"><span style="color: #ffffff;">Directory Listing Plans</span></th>
  197. </tr>
  198. <tr>
  199. <th bgcolor="#BABABA">Listing</th>
  200. <th bgcolor="#BABABA">Basic</th>
  201. <th bgcolor="#BABABA">Premium</th>
  202. </tr>
  203. </thead>
  204. <tfoot>
  205. <tr>
  206. <td>Cost</td>
  207. <td>FREE</td>
  208. <td>$35/yr</td>
  209. </tr>
  210. </tfoot>
  211. <tbody>
  212. <tr>
  213. <td>Company Name</td>
  214. <td>YES</td>
  215. <td>YES</td>
  216. </tr>
  217. <tr>
  218. <td>Contact Person</td>
  219. <td>YES</td>
  220. <td>YES</td>
  221. </tr>
  222. <tr>
  223. <td>E-mail</td>
  224. <td>YES</td>
  225. <td>YES</td>
  226. </tr>
  227. <tr>
  228. <td>Address</td>
  229. <td>YES</td>
  230. <td>YES</td>
  231. </tr>
  232. <tr>
  233. <td>Phone/Fax</td>
  234. <td>YES</td>
  235. <td>YES</td>
  236. </tr>
  237. <tr>
  238. <td>Short Description</td>
  239. <td>YES</td>
  240. <td>YES</td>
  241. </tr>
  242. <tr>
  243. <td>Company Logo</td>
  244. <td> </td>
  245. <td>$5.00</td>
  246. </tr>
  247. <tr>
  248. <td>Web Site URL</td>
  249. <td> </td>
  250. <td>$10.00</td>
  251. </tr>
  252. <tr>
  253. <td>Full Description</td>
  254. <td> </td>
  255. <td>$20.00</td>
  256. </tr>
  257. </tbody>
  258. </table>
  259. <p></center> </div>
  260. <p>Why wait? <a href="http://www.theforcefield.net/portal/business-directory-entry-form.html?task=entry.add&#038;sid=1" target="_blank" title="Add Your Company to The Force Field Directory">Get listed</a> in The Force Field Business Resource Directory today!</p>
  261. <p><font size="2"><strong>IMPORTANT NOTE: All submissions are reviewed before publication. The Force Field accepts directory entries from legitimate companies and organizations in IT or business related fields. No Direct Marketing, MLM, or spam allowed. No listings promoting illegal, counterfeit, or sexual products, services or activities allowed. The Force Field reserves the right to review, remove or refuse free or paid listings that violate US law and/or these rules.</strong></font></p>
  262. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/add-your-company/">Add Your Company!</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast">The Force Field Podcast</a>.</p>
  263. ]]></content:encoded>
  264. <wfw:commentRss>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/add-your-company/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  265. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  266. </item>
  267. <item>
  268. <title>TFF Episode 69 concludes interview with Computer Business book author</title>
  269. <link>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-episode-69-concludes-interview-with-computer-business-book-author/</link>
  270. <comments>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-episode-69-concludes-interview-with-computer-business-book-author/#comments</comments>
  271. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rick Savoia]]></dc:creator>
  272. <pubDate>Mon, 16 Jun 2014 02:51:44 +0000</pubDate>
  273. <category><![CDATA[Latest]]></category>
  274. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-episode-69-concludes-interview-with-computer-business-book-author/</guid>
  275.  
  276. <description><![CDATA[<p>The latest episode of Force Field Podcast concludes a discussion with the author of a new book about starting a computer business that takes a different approach to the subject. TFF Episode 69 features the second of a two pard discussion with Your Friendly Neighborhood Computer Guy, Matthew Rodela. Mr. Rodela, who also hosts The ... <a title="TFF Episode 69 concludes interview with Computer Business book author" class="read-more" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-episode-69-concludes-interview-with-computer-business-book-author/" aria-label="More on TFF Episode 69 concludes interview with Computer Business book author">Read more</a></p>
  277. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-episode-69-concludes-interview-with-computer-business-book-author/">TFF Episode 69 concludes interview with Computer Business book author</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast">The Force Field Podcast</a>.</p>
  278. ]]></description>
  279. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The latest episode of Force Field Podcast concludes a discussion with the author of a new book about starting a computer business that takes a different approach to the subject.</p>
  280. <p>TFF Episode 69 features the second of a two pard discussion with <a href="http://www.yfncg.com" target="_blank" title="Your Friendly Neighborhood Computer Guy">Your Friendly Neighborhood Computer Guy</a>, Matthew Rodela. Mr. Rodela, who also hosts <a href="http://www.yfncg.com/category/podcast/" target="_blank" title="The Computer Business Podcast">The Computer Business Podcast</a>, recently released a new book called <a href="http://www.yfncg.com/computer-business-book/?ref=rsavoia-011" target="_blank" title="How To Quit your Job and Start a Computer Business">How To Quit your Job and Start a Computer Business</a>. TFF Podcast host Rick Savoia interviewed Mr. Rodela to talk about how the book differs from other computer business &#8220;how to&#8221; manuals and to give listeners a preview of individual chapters and sections.</p>
  281. <p>The book is available from <strong><a href="http://www.yfncg.com/computer-business-book/?ref=rsavoia-011" target="_blank" title="How To Quit your Job and Start a Computer Business">YFNCG.com</a></strong> and can also be purchased through <a href="../podcast/" target="_blank" title="The Force Field Podcast">The Force Field</a>. Listeners of The Force Field Podcast can save an additional 20% at checkout with a discount code mentioned during the show.</p>
  282. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-episode-69-concludes-interview-with-computer-business-book-author/">TFF Episode 69 concludes interview with Computer Business book author</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast">The Force Field Podcast</a>.</p>
  283. ]]></content:encoded>
  284. <wfw:commentRss>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-episode-69-concludes-interview-with-computer-business-book-author/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  285. <slash:comments>3</slash:comments>
  286. </item>
  287. <item>
  288. <title>TFF-69 &#8211; How To Quit Your Job and Start a Computer Business Part 2</title>
  289. <link>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-69-how-to-quit-your-job-and-start-a-computer-business-part-2/</link>
  290. <comments>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-69-how-to-quit-your-job-and-start-a-computer-business-part-2/#comments</comments>
  291. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rick]]></dc:creator>
  292. <pubDate>Sat, 14 Jun 2014 00:08:26 +0000</pubDate>
  293. <category><![CDATA[Episodes]]></category>
  294. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/?p=436</guid>
  295.  
  296. <description><![CDATA[<p>Today we&#8217;ll continue our discussion with an IT consultant who recently wrote a book that takes a different approach to starting a computer business that most other books of its kind don&#8217;t consider. We&#8217;ll also tell you where you can get this book and how you can get a special discount when you purchase it ... <a title="TFF-69 &#8211; How To Quit Your Job and Start a Computer Business Part 2" class="read-more" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-69-how-to-quit-your-job-and-start-a-computer-business-part-2/" aria-label="More on TFF-69 &#8211; How To Quit Your Job and Start a Computer Business Part 2">Read more</a></p>
  297. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-69-how-to-quit-your-job-and-start-a-computer-business-part-2/">TFF-69 &#8211; How To Quit Your Job and Start a Computer Business Part 2</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast">The Force Field Podcast</a>.</p>
  298. ]]></description>
  299. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Today we&#8217;ll continue our discussion with an IT consultant who recently wrote a book that takes a different approach to starting a computer business that most other books of its kind don&#8217;t consider. We&#8217;ll also tell you where you can get this book and how you can get a special discount when you purchase it as a listener of The Force Field.</p>
  300. <p><strong>TechPodcasts Promo Tag :00<br />
  301. Intro :10</strong></p>
  302. <p><strong>Support our Sponsors! Visit them at <a target="_blank" title="The Force Field" href="http://www.theforcefield.net">The Force Field</a>!</strong></p>
  303. <p><strong>Intro to Topic 2:01</strong><br />
  304. We conclude our discussion with Matthew Rodela, an IT consultant, owner of <a target="_blank" title="Your Friendly Neighborhood Computer Guy" href="http://www.yfncg.com">Your Friendly Neighborhood Computer Guy</a>, host of <a target="_blank" title="The Computer Business Podcast" href="http://www.yfncg.com/category/podcast/">The Computer Business Podcast</a> and author of a new book called <a target="_blank" title="How To Quit your Job and Start a Computer Business" href="http://www.yfncg.com/computer-business-book/?ref=rsavoia-011">How To Quit your Job and Start a Computer Business</a>. We&#8217;ll find out how to keep your finances in order while you build your business, how to determine when it is time to quit your day job and manage your business full time, and how to plan for the future as a computer business owner. Part 2 of a two part series.</p>
  305. <p><strong>Interview with Matthew Rodela 2:50</strong></p>
  306. <p><strong>Order your copy of <a target="_blank" title="How To Quit your Job and Start a Computer Business" href="http://www.yfncg.com/computer-business-book/?ref=rsavoia-011">How To Quit your Job and Start a Computer Business</a> and save 20% at checkout with discount code: <font color="blue">FORCEFIELD20</font>.</strong></p>
  307. <p><strong>Wrap up and Close 33:17</strong></p>
  308. </p>
  309. <p>Comments, questions or suggestions? Send them in to comments@theforcefield.net or post them in <a target="_blank" title="http://www.theforcefield.net/forums/index.php?board=205.0" href="http://www.theforcefield.net/forums/index.php?board=205.0">The Force Field Forums</a>. Feedback on this topic will be read by the host and included in future episodes of the show. Visit us at <a target="_blank" title="http://www.theforcefield.net" href="http://www.theforcefield.net">http://www.theforcefield.net</a>!</p>
  310. <p>©2014 Savoia Media. All rights reserved.</p>
  311. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-69-how-to-quit-your-job-and-start-a-computer-business-part-2/">TFF-69 &#8211; How To Quit Your Job and Start a Computer Business Part 2</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast">The Force Field Podcast</a>.</p>
  312. ]]></content:encoded>
  313. <wfw:commentRss>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/tff-69-how-to-quit-your-job-and-start-a-computer-business-part-2/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  314. <slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
  315. <enclosure url="http://media.blubrry.com/theforcefield/media.techpodcasts.com/theforcefield/traffic.libsyn.com/theforcefield/The_Force_Field_69.mp3" length="32641317" type="audio/mpeg" />
  316.  
  317. <itunes:subtitle>Today we’ll continue our discussion with an IT consultant who recently wrote a book that takes a different approach to starting a computer business that most other books of its kind don’t consider. We’ll also tell you where you can get this book and ho...</itunes:subtitle>
  318. <itunes:summary><![CDATA[Today we&#8217;ll continue our discussion with an IT consultant who recently wrote a book that takes a different approach to starting a computer business that most other books of its kind don&#8217;t consider. We&#8217;ll also tell you where you can get this book and how you can get a special discount when you purchase it as a listener of The Force Field.<br />
  319. TechPodcasts Promo Tag :00<br />
  320. Intro :10<br />
  321. Support our Sponsors! Visit them at <a target="_blank" title="The Force Field" href="http://www.theforcefield.net">The Force Field</a>!<br />
  322. Intro to Topic 2:01<br />
  323. We conclude our discussion with Matthew Rodela, an IT consultant, owner of <a target="_blank" title="Your Friendly Neighborhood Computer Guy" href="http://www.yfncg.com">Your Friendly Neighborhood Computer Guy</a>, host of <a target="_blank" title="The Computer Business Podcast" href="http://www.yfncg.com/category/podcast/">The Computer Business Podcast</a> and author of a new book called <a target="_blank" title="How To Quit your Job and Start a Computer Business" href="http://www.yfncg.com/computer-business-book/?ref=rsavoia-011">How To Quit your Job and Start a Computer Business</a>. We&#8217;ll find out how to keep your finances in order while you build your business, how to determine when it is time to quit your day job and manage your business full time, and how to plan for the future as a computer business owner. Part 2 of a two part series.<br />
  324. Interview with Matthew Rodela 2:50<br />
  325. Order your copy of <a target="_blank" title="How To Quit your Job and Start a Computer Business" href="http://www.yfncg.com/computer-business-book/?ref=rsavoia-011">How To Quit your Job and Start a Computer Business</a> and save 20% at checkout with discount code: FORCEFIELD20.<br />
  326. Wrap up and Close 33:17<br />
  327. <br />
  328. Comments, questions or suggestions? Send them in to comments@theforcefield.net or post them in <a target="_blank" title="http://www.theforcefield.net/forums/index.php?board=205.0" href="http://www.theforcefield.net/forums/index.php?board=205.0">The Force Field Forums</a>. Feedback on this topic will be read by the host and included in future episodes of the show. Visit us at <a target="_blank" title="http://www.theforcefield.net" href="http://www.theforcefield.net">http://www.theforcefield.net</a>!<br />
  329. ©2014 Savoia Media. All rights reserved.<br />]]></itunes:summary>
  330. <itunes:author>Rick</itunes:author>
  331. <itunes:image href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/wp-content/uploads/powerpress/FF1400.jpg" />
  332. <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  333. <itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit>
  334. <itunes:duration>33:58</itunes:duration>
  335. </item>
  336. <item>
  337. <title>What is a white box?</title>
  338. <link>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/what-is-a-white-box/</link>
  339. <comments>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/what-is-a-white-box/#comments</comments>
  340. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rick Savoia]]></dc:creator>
  341. <pubDate>Wed, 11 Jun 2014 18:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
  342. <category><![CDATA[Rick Rant]]></category>
  343. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/what-is-a-white-box/</guid>
  344.  
  345. <description><![CDATA[<p>I&#8217;ve used the term white box this week in other posts on the assumption that most readers of The Force Field and the Rick Rant blog would know what it meant. IT covers a lot of areas and not everyone in the industry builds or repairs computers. So allow me to explain what is. A ... <a title="What is a white box?" class="read-more" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/what-is-a-white-box/" aria-label="More on What is a white box?">Read more</a></p>
  346. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/what-is-a-white-box/">What is a white box?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast">The Force Field Podcast</a>.</p>
  347. ]]></description>
  348. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I&#8217;ve used the term <em>white box</em> this week in other posts on the assumption that most readers of <a href="../" target="_blank" title="The Force Field">The Force Field</a> and the <a href="blogs.html" target="_blank" title="Rick Rant Blog">Rick Rant blog</a> would know what it meant. IT covers a lot of areas and not everyone in the industry builds or repairs computers. So allow me to explain what is.</p>
  349. <p>A <em>White Box</em> is a device that is not branded by major or well-known company. The term generally refers to a generic desktop or tower computer system that is built or assembled by a relatively unknown company or brand, such as a local computer shop or a do-it-yourself hobbyist. In recent years it has come to mean any generically boxed or unbranded device, such as a laptop or a tablet.</p>
  350. <p>Originally these generic or unbranded systems were assembled using white or beige cases, hence the name <em>white box</em>. However, over time the cases became available in other colors and even customized shapes, and today the boxes are typically white in name only.</p>
  351. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/what-is-a-white-box/">What is a white box?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast">The Force Field Podcast</a>.</p>
  352. ]]></content:encoded>
  353. <wfw:commentRss>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/what-is-a-white-box/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  354. <slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
  355. </item>
  356. <item>
  357. <title>Why I am building instead of buying a new PC</title>
  358. <link>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/why-i-am-building-instead-of-buying-a-new-pc/</link>
  359. <comments>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/why-i-am-building-instead-of-buying-a-new-pc/#comments</comments>
  360. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rick Savoia]]></dc:creator>
  361. <pubDate>Tue, 10 Jun 2014 18:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
  362. <category><![CDATA[Rick Rant]]></category>
  363. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/why-i-am-building-instead-of-buying-a-new-pc/</guid>
  364.  
  365. <description><![CDATA[<p>This month, I plan to build a new computer for my home office. This will be my first new build in seven years. I am doing so for two reasons. First, the computer I am currently working on is seven years old and it will not run the new software I recently purchased to edit ... <a title="Why I am building instead of buying a new PC" class="read-more" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/why-i-am-building-instead-of-buying-a-new-pc/" aria-label="More on Why I am building instead of buying a new PC">Read more</a></p>
  366. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/why-i-am-building-instead-of-buying-a-new-pc/">Why I am building instead of buying a new PC</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast">The Force Field Podcast</a>.</p>
  367. ]]></description>
  368. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>This month, I plan to build a new computer for my home office. This will be my first new build in seven years. I am doing so for two reasons. First, the computer I am currently working on is seven years old and it will not run the new software I recently purchased to edit my videos. The second reason is because Windows XP has reached its EOL and I need some measure of security.</p>
  369. <p>I am not purchasing a computer from Dell, HP, Toshiba or some other PC manufacturer. I am building it myself, and I am doing so for two reasons. First, because I can.</p>
  370. <p>Once upon a time, building computers was part of my business. The computers that I built were considerably better than those purchased from Dell, HP or another major OEM. They were carefully assembled, burned-in and tested by hand, they were tweaked and optimized for performance, and they were not pre-loaded with bloatware to slow them down on first boot. My computers had a very low rate of warranty repairs and a zero rate on returns. A few of them are still in operation today, although they are now eight to ten years old.</p>
  371. <p>When I first got into building computers, it was rather profitable, but sometime between 2004 and 2006, everything changed. Dell had forced a lot of small system builders like myself out of the business by selling cheap computers at ridiculously low prices. Yes, they were junk, but a lot of our customers bought them because they were so cheap. Of course, after their first or second call to Dell&#8217;s horrible and frustrating overseas tech support line, many of those customers learned the hard way that you really do get what you pay for, but by then it was too late. Thanks to Dell and their over-aggressive pricing strategy, the margins on computers became razor-thin, and eventually hit rock bottom industry-wide. </p>
  372. <p>For some of us, it was the last straw. It just wasn&#8217;t worth the cost of building a system that we would also have to warranty and support for a year just to keep a customer buying in-house. I had had enough of system building.</p>
  373. <p>After I closed up shop in Florida and moved out of the business, I built one last computer. It wasn&#8217;t for a customer, it was for me. I told myself it would be the last PC I would build for anyone, simply because I felt they were no longer cost effective to build. If we needed a computer at home, I would simply go to the nearest Sam&#8217;s Club and purchase one. At least I would get a warranty that I wouldn&#8217;t have to support.</p>
  374. <p>At first, it worked out rather well. When my wife&#8217;s old computer finally bit the dust, I went out and purchased one of the last netbooks with Windows XP. Vista was out on the market, but thanks to Microsoft and their prudent decision to keep XP around and offer a downgrade, we had options.</p>
  375. <p>When my daughter needed a new PC for her school and graphic art projects, it was not a problem. I purchased a white box system (the case was black) from CompUSA during a trip to Florida and installed Windows XP, which was still available. No muss, no fuss, and she is still using it as I write.</p>
  376. <p>Then, we had trouble. When my son&#8217;s computer became too old and slow to run programs he needed for school work, I searched around for a new laptop. It turned out to be more than I bargained for, because by this time Microsoft had rolled out the now infamous Windows 8.</p>
  377. <p>I chronicled this purchase in another <a href="http://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/please-recall-windows-8-5525/" target="_blank" title="Dear Mr. Ballmer, please recall Windows 8">rant</a>, so I won&#8217;t recount the details of the experience here. However, after finally locating a laptop with Windows 7, I came to the disheartening realization that purchasing another PC in the near future without Windows 8 was going to be a problem, if not an impossibility.</p>
  378. <p>Now I need a new desktop computer. This time I am going to build instead of buy one. As I stated earlier, I am doing it because I can, but it isn&#8217;t because I really want to. I am not going to buy it from a major OEM because I can&#8217;t. Microsoft made the selfishly stupid decision to push Windows 8 and not allow downgrades to Windows 7.</p>
  379. <p>I do not want to be forced to purchase a PC with Windows 8. I want a choice, and if I can&#8217;t have the desktop I had before, I want something relatively close to it. I want to choose an operating system that belongs on a desktop, running personal and business programs, an OS that doesn&#8217;t make my PC look and feel like an oversized tablet or smartphone.<br /> <br /><a href="http://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/why-are-pc-sales-falling/" target="_blank" title="Why are PC sales falling?">Why are PC sales falling?</a> Because they come with Windows 8 installed, and people like me don&#8217;t want to purchase computers with Windows 8. If we can&#8217;t buy one from a major OEM like Dell, HP or Toshiba without Windows 8, then we&#8217;ll either find a local shop that will build a system with Windows 7 or, as I am doing, build our own.</p>
  380. <p>Microsoft is chasing potential customers away from the major OEMs with Windows 8. I should know. I am testimonial proof.</p>
  381. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/why-i-am-building-instead-of-buying-a-new-pc/">Why I am building instead of buying a new PC</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast">The Force Field Podcast</a>.</p>
  382. ]]></content:encoded>
  383. <wfw:commentRss>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/why-i-am-building-instead-of-buying-a-new-pc/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  384. <slash:comments>4</slash:comments>
  385. </item>
  386. <item>
  387. <title>Why are PC sales falling?</title>
  388. <link>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/why-are-pc-sales-falling/</link>
  389. <comments>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/why-are-pc-sales-falling/#respond</comments>
  390. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rick Savoia]]></dc:creator>
  391. <pubDate>Mon, 09 Jun 2014 18:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
  392. <category><![CDATA[Rick Rant]]></category>
  393. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/why-are-pc-sales-falling/</guid>
  394.  
  395. <description><![CDATA[<p>The eventual decline of the desktop PC market has been predicted for over a decade. Contributing factors included eventual natural market saturation, newer and emerging technologies, and an increase in performance and power on the desktop that could eventually outpace its standard three to five year life cycle, increasing the compatibility and longevity of older computers. ... <a title="Why are PC sales falling?" class="read-more" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/why-are-pc-sales-falling/" aria-label="More on Why are PC sales falling?">Read more</a></p>
  396. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/why-are-pc-sales-falling/">Why are PC sales falling?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast">The Force Field Podcast</a>.</p>
  397. ]]></description>
  398. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The eventual decline of the desktop PC market has been predicted for over a decade. Contributing factors included eventual natural market saturation, newer and emerging technologies, and an increase in performance and power on the desktop that could eventually outpace its standard three to five year life cycle, increasing the compatibility and longevity of older computers.</p>
  399. <p>During the last five years, the approaching death knell for the desktop computer was blamed on the Mobility Factor, the expectation that an ever-increasing dependence on mobile devices and technologies would eventually draw nearly every user away from the PC to leave it collecting dust on the desk while they cavorted about wirelessly, conducting both personal and professional business while on the move.</p>
  400. <p>First, it was predicted the <a href="http://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/my-laptop-terminator-rise-of-the-netbooks-1487/" target="_blank" title="My Laptop Terminator: Rise of the Netbooks">netbook would take over</a>. It never happened. Then, it was predicted the smartphone would do it all. Sure, it does a lot, but it doesn&#8217;t do everything, at least not as well as a desktop PC. For instance, it isn&#8217;t easy to write long blog posts or edit podcasts on a smartphone, at least not for me. Now, rumour has it that tablets will take over. Sure, they are popular. I do a lot of work on mine. But I still use my desktop. In fact, I&#8217;m using it right now to write this. Why? because when I write, I prefer to use a full keyboard. It&#8217;s faster and more efficient. It is also more comfortable. When it comes to writing on a smartphone or tablet, I&#8217;m all thumbs.</p>
  401. <p>Apparently I am not alone. smartphones and tablets are great for some applications, but when it comes to heavy duty computing or serious multitasking, they can&#8217;t touch the desktop for performance. At least, not yet. Sure, a lot of folks don&#8217;t do all that much with their computer other than check e-mail, write an occasional letter, surf the net, watch YouTube videos, or play solitaire. Any smartphone or tablet can do that.</p>
  402. <p>But when they need to do a little bit more, at the end of the day they still find themselves going back to the desktop computer.</p>
  403. <p>PC sales may have declined during the past year or so, but they certainly aren&#8217;t dead. I don&#8217;t personally know of <em>anyone</em> who has actually ditched their home computer to do <em>everything</em> on a smartphone or tablet. At least, not yet.</p>
  404. <p>We still use desktops, and we still like them, but we aren&#8217;t buying them. Why the decline? What is the <em>real</em> reason behind the lackluster sales of personal computers?</p>
  405. <p>Could it be because of<em> Windows 8</em>?</p>
  406. <p>I think so. That&#8217;s not an original thought. It has been widely speculated that <a href="http://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/please-recall-windows-8-5525/" target="_blank" title="Dear Mr. Ballmer, please recall Windows 8">Microsoft&#8217;s poorly received operating system</a> may be <em>one</em> reason why PC sales are soft, although not the <em>only</em> reason. I disagree. It may not be the only reason, but I contend that it is the <em>primary</em> reason we aren&#8217;t buying desktops today.</p>
  407. <p>Remember when Windows Vista debuted? Users rejected it. PC sales dropped. When Windows 7 launched, PC sales seemed to be somewhat stable. The dramatic drop in sales after the launch of Windows 8 was obvious. The public did <em>not</em> like the operating system <em>at all</em>. When Microsoft told OEMs it was Windows 8 all the way with no rollback option to Windows 7, the continued drop in sales was a shout out to Redmond that users did not like being force fed something they clearly did not want shoved down their throats.</p>
  408. <p>They aren&#8217;t buying desktops because they don&#8217;t like what is on them, and unless they purchase an overly expensive Mac or unfamiliar Linux based machine, they don&#8217;t seem to have any other options.</p>
  409. <p>Yet there is something missing from all the sales data. Everyone seems to be reporting on sales of desktops from major, name brand OEMs. What about <a href="http://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/what-is-a-white-box/" target="_blank" title="What is a white box?"><em>white box</em></a> systems? Small system builders still exist, and there are plenty of local computer shops that build their own PCs. In addition, a growing segment of the population is <a href="http://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/why-i-am-building-instead-of-buying-a-new-pc/" target="_blank" title="Why I am building instead of buying a new PC">building their own</a>. No one seems to have the numbers on the sales of new computer <em>parts</em>.</p>
  410. <p>Microsoft requires the major OEMs to install Windows 8 on new PCs, but Windows 7 product is still available, and smaller white box builders can and do build boxes with Windows 7. So can just about anyone else.</p>
  411. <p>Is it possible that the desktop isn&#8217;t dead at all? Is it possible that there is another market for new PCs that is undocumented or under-reported, but may be currently experiencing a resurgence in growth? We don&#8217;t have the hard numbers, but casual discussions with other techs in the business indicate to me that their system builds are actually up, largely because their customers specifically want custom builds with Windows 7. </p>
  412. <p>In other words, the desktop market may actually still be alive and well. It may just be thriving in a different market <em>place</em>.</p>
  413. <p>Perhaps I&#8217;m wrong about tablets and smartphones, and they <em>will</em> eventually relegate PCs to the attic under a cache of cobwebs and an inch of dust. But not in my house. Not yet.</p>
  414. <p>If and when it does happen, it will likely be because we can no longer use a PC like a desktop, because it will no longer have an operating system that lets it work like one.</p>
  415. <p>If and when the desktop is discarded, it won&#8217;t be due to netbooks, smartphones or tablets. It will be Microsoft that does it in. Whether it&#8217;s intentional through forced migration or a botched redesign due to corporate incompetence, the end of the desktop will be Microsoft&#8217;s fault.</p>
  416. <p>I predict the PC will not die of from obsolescence. Microsoft will probably kill it.</p>
  417. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/why-are-pc-sales-falling/">Why are PC sales falling?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast">The Force Field Podcast</a>.</p>
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  422. <item>
  423. <title>Dell to close support center</title>
  424. <link>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/dell-to-close-support-center/</link>
  425. <comments>https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/dell-to-close-support-center/#respond</comments>
  426. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rick Savoia]]></dc:creator>
  427. <pubDate>Sun, 08 Jun 2014 19:39:49 +0000</pubDate>
  428. <category><![CDATA[Rick Rant]]></category>
  429. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/dell-to-close-support-center/</guid>
  430.  
  431. <description><![CDATA[<p>Dell is closing a call center. Last week, Dell said that it would be closing its PC phone support center in Mohali, India. According to the Hindu Business Line the closure was due to &#8220;falling employee productivity&#8221;. Translation- the number of incoming support calls are down, apparently so much that it is no longer cost ... <a title="Dell to close support center" class="read-more" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/dell-to-close-support-center/" aria-label="More on Dell to close support center">Read more</a></p>
  432. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/dell-to-close-support-center/">Dell to close support center</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast">The Force Field Podcast</a>.</p>
  433. ]]></description>
  434. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Dell is closing a call center.</p>
  435. <p>Last week, Dell said that it would be closing its PC phone support center in Mohali, India. According to the <a href="http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/features/smartbuy/falling-pc-sales-forced-dell-to-shutter-tech-support-centre-at-mohali/article6079191.ece" target="_blank" title="Falling PC sales forced Dell to shutter tech support centre at Mohali">Hindu Business Line</a> the closure was due to &#8220;falling employee productivity&#8221;. Translation- the number of incoming support calls are down, apparently so much that it is no longer cost effective to have one of their call centers.</p>
  436. <p>This is no huge revelation. PC sales were down more than 10% industry wide in 2013, according to <a href="http://www.idc.com/tracker/showproductinfo.jsp?prod_id=1" target="_blank" title="IDC's Worldwide Quarterly PC Tracker">IDC&#8217;s Worldwide Quarterly Tracker</a>. So far, 2014 isn&#8217;t looking too good, either.</p>
  437. <p>Dell is feeling the pinch, but so are HP, Acer, ASUS and other PC manufacturers. Apparently the only PC maker to come out significantly ahead of the game was Lenovo, thanks in part to Chromebooks and sales in Asia, Europe and the Middle East.</p>
  438. <p>The <a href="http://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/why-are-pc-sales-falling/" target="_blank" title="Why are PC sales falling?">death of the desktop</a> has been predicted for over a decade. Is this the beginning of the end of the Personal Computer?</p>
  439. <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast/dell-to-close-support-center/">Dell to close support center</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.theforcefield.net/podcast">The Force Field Podcast</a>.</p>
  440. ]]></content:encoded>
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