SPaMCAST 102 - Anita Cassidy, IT Strategy and Value

Welcome to the Software Process and Measurement Cast 102. SPaMCAST 102 features my interview with Anita Cassidy.  We discussed her book "A Practical Guide to Information Systems Strategic Planning" along with how to improve value and performance of IT! Anita Cassidy is owner and partner of ITDirections ( www.itdirections.com ), a technology consulting organization focused on the areas of strategic planning, assessments, software selection, contract negotiation, process improvement, coaching and temporary CIO. With over 30 years experience in IT, Anita has a reputation in the industry as a trusted advisor, consultant, and executive coach who has a true passion and track-record for making a difference. Anita is a nationally recognized industry leader in strategic planning and has published five books, including a best-seller titled "A Practical Guide to Information Systems Strategic Planning" (Taylor & Francis Group). Her latest book, published in 2010 was titled "A Practical Guide to Reducing IT Costs" (JRoss Publishing). As an accomplished facilitator, instructor, presenter, and industry expert, she has been a speaker at many national events and conferences, quoted in various articles and magazines, and served as a technology advisor and industry authority. Anita has held the CIO, VP, and top IT positions in worldwide companies such as Fisher-Rosemount (a division of Emerson Electric), Sanofi Diagnostics Pasteur (Beckman Coulter), and Graco. Anita is also an adjunct professor co-teaching an Engineering IT masters course at St. Thomas University.  Ms. Cassidy holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management with MIS emphasis from the University of Minnesota, Carlson School of Management. Ad for my book! Mastering Software Project Management: Best Practices, Tools and Techniques co-authored by Murali Chematuri and myself and published by J. Ross Publishing has hit the bookshelves!  According to Robert C. Anderson, Director, Process Development and Quality Assurance, Computer Aid, Inc, "Mastering Software Project Management is a masterpiece of clarity, organization and depth of practical knowledge." If you a project manager or know project managers buy yourself a copy and a second to lend co-workers!Have you bought your copy? Contact information for the Software Process and Measurement CastEmail:  spamcastinfo@gmail.comVoicemail:  +1-206-888-6111Website: www.spamcast.netTwitter: www.twitter.com/tcagleyFacebook:  http://bit.ly/16fBWV Conferences and Speaking Engagements in 2010 (To Date)October 7th 11:00 - 12:30 Webinar: Functional Metrics and Agile Estimation, RevisitedRegister here! Synopsis - Estimation is a lightning rod for conflicts between agile and process driven methodologies. However, times are changing, and agile is maturing.  Part of the process of maturing is the incorporation of best practices from other methods and frameworks.  In this webinar, Tom Cagley will explain how functional metrics allow you to incorporate additional process discipline into the estimation processes typically used by agile teams. Next!SPaMCAST 103 will feature the thirds installment of the Seven Deadly Sins of Measurement Programs essay.  We take on sloth, really this time!