Considerations for Virtualizing SharePoint 2010 Database Server
May 31, 2012
As part of continuing coverage of Robert Schifreen’s SharePoint 2010 series, we’re looking at his seventh installment, “To Virtualise or not to Virtualise.” Schifreen explains the practical, detailed decisions about configuration and resources, starting with virtualization.
While virtualization provides for the ability to consolidate multiple virtual guests within a single physical server by sharing the physical resources across the virtual machine, experts have differing opinions on virtualizing the SharePoint database server. But in Schifreen’s experience, the advantages outweighed any potential downfalls. He has this to say about the process:
In addition, some experts suggest that any more than two virtual CPUs is actually a bad move, since the server spends too much time waiting for CPUs to become available. This is something we’ll need to watch. We also took on board a widely held opinion that, on a virtual database server, you should not use auto-growing, thin-provisioned databases because it’s too easy for the hypervisor to lose track of how much free space you actually have. You’ll need to change some of the defaults in SQL Server because they’re not suitable for SharePoint.
Virtualization may be the path you want to take with your farm. It can reduce hardware costs, increase server utilization, lessen environmental impact, improve service levels, and extend the life of legacy systems. Schifreen’s article may be worth the read if you’re considering virtualization. And while you’re looking to reduce redundancy and increase efficiency, consider a powerful search feature to help you get the most return on your SharePoint investments. An IDC Study found that Fabasoft Mindbreeze Enterprise gains each employee two weeks per year through focused finding of data, “an invaluable competitive advantage in business as well as providing employee satisfaction.”
We also like the feedback from Fabasoft Mindbreeze customers. The Chamber of Commerce, Upper Austria had this to say:
Fabasoft Mindbreeze Enterprise provides our staff quickly and efficiently with all the information they need. The service center staff is able to respond to requests without delay, as all relevant information is found with only one query. This even further improves the quality of our customer services whilst simultaneously minimizing effort of our staff.
Look for quick results from an out of the box solution at Fabasoft Mindbreeze.
Philip West, May 31, 2012
Sponsored by Pandia.com
PLM Training: There Is an App for That
May 31, 2012
One of the challenges of any product lifecycle management (PLM) platform is providing adequate training for the necessary employees. Thanks to a great product, i GET IT, employees can receive training at their own pace via software. Now, to make it even easier employees can access their materials on their personal iPhones or iPads thanks to a new i GET IT app available at the app store according to the article, “i GET IT Introduces iPad App, Opens iPad to Engineering Users”, on MCAD Café.
The article explains the new app by saying,
“The i GET IT iPad app allows users to logon to their existing i GET IT account and access their personal learning path, including courses in SolidWorks, Autodesk products, Siemens PLM products and Dassault Systemes products. It also allows new users to sign up for free memberships and experience the full range of free courses available in the i GET IT portfolio.”
All too often PLM solutions fail because of lack of customer training. With PLM reaching across almost all departments of an enterprise more employees than ever before need to be trained in how to adequately use the platform. Inforbix, a leader in PLM solutions for small and midsized enterprises, places customer training and ongoing support as one of the first priorities in any PLM adoption. Thanks to companies devoted to customer training like Inforbix and i GET IT PLM solutions can be used to their fullest potential.
Catherine Lamsfuss, May 31, 2012
Considerations before SharePoint Migration
May 30, 2012
The world of enterprise is now humming with news of migration – migration to the upcoming SharePoint 2013 release and also the currently available SharePoint Online. Writer Steven Pogrebivsky on CMS Wire gives his take in, “4 Considerations for Migrating to Office 365 and SharePoint Online.”
Pogrebivsky tackles the first, perhaps most important step, deciding what needs to move:
Chances are your content is not organized well, or tagged appropriately, so what’s the point moving it as is and having a big grey cloud? It doesn’t make sense. What makes sense is to carefully plan what content you really need to move, how it’s going to be used and by whom. Once you’ve done that, then work on your SharePoint Information Architecture. Plan your content types, metadata and keywords. If you are going to make the move to the cloud, move only the content you need and migrate it right from the start.
The author goes on to discuss security issues and having a proper backup system in place. These are all valid considerations. However, choosing a smart third party solution could mean that an organization does not have to address these challenges independently. We like Fabasoft Mindbreeze. Mindbreeze offers an entire suite of solutions, centering around Fabasoft Mindbreeze Enterprise.
Fabasoft Mindbreeze Enterprise understands you, or more precisely understands exactly what the most important information is for you at any given moment. It’s a center of excellence and simultaneously your personal assistant for all questions. The information pairing technology brings enterprise and Cloud together.
Additional offerings from Mindbreeze surround the central product and offer features such as Connectors to other solutions. The Mindbreeze suite is now fully mobile and security is guaranteed based on the highest EU standards. Explore the Mindbreeze solutions for yourself and see how it can improve or supplant your next migration.
Emily Rae Aldridge, May 30, 2012
Sponsored by Pandia.com
Inforbix to Spark Innovation at Solid Edge University 2012
May 30, 2012
Those in the data management industry wishing to stay up-to-date on innovation and technology are encouraged to attend Siemens’ Solid Edge University, an annual event showcasing the best of the best and tomorrow’s leaders in all things analytics. This year, as announced in the Virtual Strategy article, “Inforbix to attend Solid Edge University 2012” up and coming data management star, Inforbix, will be presenting.
The article explains of what makes Inforbix unique and worth paying attention to:
“Inforbix can access product data within CAD, PDM, and PLM systems and make it available in meaningful ways to CAD and non-CAD users. All Inforbix apps utilize product data semantics technology that automatically infer relationships between disparate sources of data. For example, Inforbix can semantically connect or link SolidEdge CAD assemblies with a related Excel or PDF file containing a BOM table stored on a file server in another department.”
Any enterprise, regardless of size, finding themselves in over their head with data should consider contacting Inforbix for the latest in data management solutions. As Inforbix describes its services, they “(integrate) cloud solutions for manufacturing companies that tackle everyday tasks such as finding, reusing, and sharing product data without the overhead of traditional data management systems.” We are glad to see Inforbix presenting at the Siemens event and hope that their ingenuity sparks innovation in those attending.
Catherine Lamsfuss, May 30, 2012
Enterprise Content Management, Beyond SharePoint
May 29, 2012
Going beyond search, SharePoint 2010 is also capable of enterprise content management (ECM). Content management on any platform requires quite a bit of intentionality and planning, a task that can be daunting for any content management specialist. Jennifer Mason at CMS Wire gives users something to consider in, “SharePoint 2010: Enterprise Content Management for the Masses.”
Because there are so many pieces to consider, the best advice that can be given about getting started with the concept of records management is to start by planning. Before you ever look at the technology, you should work within your organization to ensure that you have a good set of requirements and an understanding of the overall management strategy. Once that is created, you can look at the various components required (such as Content Types and Metadata) and plan for the various elements you will need.
As Mason walks readers through various ECM features and how to use them, the advice is valuable. However, many users will benefit from a content management system that is more intuitive, requiring less customization. These smaller more nimble organizations should consider Fabasoft Mindbreeze Enterprise.
Highly efficient enterprise search and specific connectors link together data sources in companies and organizations. They integrate the knowledge of different sections of a company into a uniform, linked whole. The award-winning high-tech product is your personal assistant. 24/7, 365 days a year. Regardless of which data you are looking for and with which system you are working with – Fabasoft Mindbreeze Enterprise answers your questions with pinpoint accuracy.
Enterprise is not the only offering available from Mindbreeze, with an entire suite of solutions designed to connect the information needs of your entire organization. Fabasoft Mindbreeze is a leader in third party enterprise search solutions – see what it can do for your information needs.
Emily Rae Aldridge, May 29, 2012
Sponsored by Pandia.com
Manufacturing Made Easy with Well Planned Lifecycle Management
May 29, 2012
The theory of product lifecycle management (PLM) is simple in nature – all aspects of a products design, manufacturing, and longevity are planned and plotted before the idea becomes reality. In actuality, however, things are rarely as simple as they seem. A recent Plant Engineering article, “Manufacturing, By Design”, highlights one companies answer to the problem of how to make PLM work right.
The article accurately summarizes the issue most enterprises face when it comes to PLM:
“When you throw theory or software at an idea like (PLM), solutions come quicker than implementation. In the end, what matters in (PLM) is not the beginning, middle, or end of a manufacturing process, but how those phases of life connect.”
The answer? According to Vice President of North American operations for Fluke Corp., Kristi Mosman:
“’People think it’s an easy process. It’s not. It’s a challenge.’” The challenge for Mosman, and for Fluke’s design and marketing teams, is to combine those phases into a single manufacturing process from bright idea to final shipment.”
Many companies, especially small and midsized ones, avoid PLM all together because of the difficulties which traditionally have been a part of the process. Educating decision makers in the latest cloud-based technologies and solutions as well as how PLM is rapidly changing to be more user-friendly is the goal of Fluke Corporation and others, like Inforbix. Catering to the small business Inforbix offers customized PLM solutions with an emphasis on customer support and training in an effort to reverse the negative image PLM providers have earned over the years.
Catherine Lamsfuss, May 29, 2912
Inforbix to Present at Solid Edge University 2012 Technology Showcase
May 29, 2012
Many manufacturing companies are struggling to stay ahead of the data game with the growing amount of product data surfacing in the field. Inforbix Apps provides the necessary tools that address the specific product data tasks that are encountered in manufacturing.
These groundbreaking tools are now being released for public showing. Inforbix will be presenting and demonstrating its cloud-based product data access apps June 11-13 at Solid Edge University 2012 Technology Showcase in Nashville, Tennessee. This will be the first public showing to the Siemens PLM Community. This showcase will allow SolidEdge Partners and other attendees to see Inforbix in action.
Inforbix is a Boston-based software company founded in 2012 that addresses the excess of product data specifically within manufacturing companies. The company develops software solutions and apps to address specific data trends and improve productivity. Inforbix is currently a cloud service and assists customers in finding and sharing product data companywide.
Inforbix CEO Oleg Shilovistsky comments on the upcoming presentation in the recent news release, “Inforbix to Attend Solid Edge University 2012”:
“We are excited to introduce Inforbix to the Siemens community at Solid Edge University 2012. We believe there is a growing affinity among Siemens customers, partners, and Inforbix users. This community has always been among the first to adopt new products that are cost effective and easy to use, and which make their products more competitive. At Solid Edge University 2012, Siemens users will learn more about Inforbix and confirm that Inforbix delivers these benefits. We are pleased to share Inforbix with the Siemens community.”
One-on-one meetings will be available at the showcase to allow customers and partners get detailed answers about how Inforbix is helping manufacturing companies make better use of their product data.
The software is reasonably priced and is now available for demo. Just direct your browser to http://www.inforbix.com/demo. The Beyond Search team is proud to recommend the company and the manufacturing data solutions it provides. As always, we look forward to seeing what is to come from Inforbix.
Andrea Hayden, May 29, 2012
Sponsored by PolySpot
Inteltrax: Top Stories, May 21 to May 25
May 28, 2012
Inteltrax, the data fusion and business intelligence information service, captured three key stories germane to search this week, specifically, the latest happenings with some of big data’s biggest names.
Our story, “Data Analytics Expert Points to the Crux of Big Data Issues,” looked at the CEO of Revolution Analytics and Digital Reasoning, catching up with their latest moves.
“EMC Provides a Lot of Analytic Good,” shows all the positive ways in which EMC is moving the analytic game ahead.
While, “MicroTech Wins Military Intelligence Contract” shows this up-and-coming firm making a name for itself with defense.
There are a million different directions that analytics are moving in at any given moment, but we’ll be providing snapshots of the scene, just like this, every day. Be sure to tune in.
Follow the Inteltrax news stream by visiting www.inteltrax.com
Patrick Roland, Editor, Inteltrax.
May 28, 2012
The Promises and Realities of SharePoint Database Management
May 28, 2012
Robert Schifreen has over 30 years of experience in reporting and implementing online technology with his latest projects focused on SharePoint installation. The positives and negatives of his experience are relayed in his post, “Attack of the BLOBs: Data Behaving Badly.” In this sixth installment of his SharePoint 2010 series, Schifreen analyzes the nuances of SharePoint databases.
Databases are the most important core of any farm as they store valuable content like user data, sites, documents, libraries, lists, calendars, wikis, and more. Schifreen explains some challenges with databases in SharePoint 2010:
You can have as many SQL databases as you like, but Microsoft recommends that you don’t allow any one database to grow larger than 200GB, after which performance apparently starts to degrade. It’s also best not to have individual drive volumes that run into tens of terabytes, because they’re a pain to back up. Microsoft has a solution to the problem of storing large data objects (BLOBs) in SQL databases, which is something called RBS or Remote Blob Storage. Each blob gets stored as a standard file on the file system and its entry in the database is replaced with a pointer to the external file.
He goes on to explain the complex nature of SharePoint architecture and RBS middleware. While a SharePoint deployment can get complicated quickly, it is important to analyze your environment and keep it simple until you need to add more complex features. Schifreen’s article is a good example of that process and may be worth the read. But we also know that a powerful search feature is necessary to navigate and get the most out of your SharePoint investments.
To fill in the search gaps in your SharePoint system, consider a third party application. We like the good reviews for the Fabasoft Mindbreeze suite of solutions. With clear navigation and a self-explanatory interface, Fabasoft Mindbreeze Enterprise facilitates findability.
Fabasoft Mindbreeze Enterprise finds every scrap of information within a very short time, whether document, contract, note, e-mail or calendar entry, in intranet or internet, person- or text-related. The software solution finds all required information, regardless of source, for its users. Get a comprehensive overview of corporate knowledge in seconds without redundancy or loss of data.
While databases can become convoluted, Mindbreeze can save employees time by connecting them to the right information via a user-friendly interface even with vast amounts of unstructured data. Navigate to http://www.mindbreeze.com/ to read more.
Philip West, May 28, 2012
Sponsored by Pandia.com
Can Data Management Costs Be Lowered?
May 28, 2012
For many years product lifecycle management was reserved only for the largest of enterprises because, primarily, the price to set up a PLM platform and maintain it was astronomical. With the advent of cloud based technology, however, PLM solutions are becoming more affordable leading many to question why some providers are still charging so much. The MCAD Café article, “PLM and MySQL – Keeping the Cost of PLM Down”, questions how pricing is set and what can be done to lower it so more businesses can gain access.
As the author explains the problem,
“One of the often-heard complaints about PLM is that the investment need is huge. Partially the blame also falls on the database licensing cost. In order to find out what the database licensing costs look like I tried to read Oracle’s Global Price List and their Software Investment Guide and SQL Server 2012 Licensing Overview – and ended up just getting bewildered…I am pretty sure a IT Manager just ends up getting baffled as well!”
Bewilderment is not a state that anyone wants to find themselves when considering investing thousands of their business’s money in a PLM platform. For that reason we recommend businesses wanting to learn more about PLM solutions and how their business can benefit contact the professionals at Inforbix, a cloud based PLM provider specializing in working with small to midsized businesses in keeping costs down and customer support high. With a dedication to their clients unseen by most providers Inforbix helps companies understand how a PLM platform can help them and how to implement one without breaking the budget.
Catherine Lamsfuss, May 28, 2012
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