Definition of Electronic report

(ERM, Enterprise Report Management) The capture, archiving and publishing, in digital
form, of (typically mainframe generated) documents such as accounting and financial reports.
ERM often replaces systems based on paper or microfilm.

ERM usually captures data from print streams and stores it on hard drives, storage area networks
or optical disk drives. The data is indexed and can be retreived at the desktop with a web
browser or a fat client. ERM systems are part of enterprise content management or electronic
document management.

Example
An example application is Earldom Quick File Information Management System
(IMS).

An early replacement for green bar printed reports was Computer Output on Microfilm (COM,
not to be confused with Microsoft's Component Object Model). This was superseded by
Computer Output to Laser Disk (or Disc - COLD) which used optical media.

In 1999 the AIIM renamed COLD to ERM/COLD to reflect the variety of media in use. This
was promoted, in 2002, by Mason Grigsby - widely reputed as "The Father of COLD" for his
seminal work with INSCI in the late 1980s. Judging from their web site, AIIM don't seem too
sure whether ERM is "Electronic", "Enterprise" or both.

Explanation of Electronic Media

Companies that perform stationary source emissions tests using test methods that are
supported by ERT such as US EPA Methods 1 through 5 or EPA Method 30B should consider
using the following spreadsheets/schema. These tests require the measurement and
documentation of different parameters at multiple points across each emission measurement
location. Some companies document this information in spreadsheets that they have programmed
to assist them in calculating proper equipment operation(s) and preparation of that information
for a test report. Other companies have sampling equipment with electronic sensors, controls,
and software programs to perform much of the data collection and documentation. The
equipment used by the latter individuals export the collected information in a variety of formats
for calculations and report preparation.
The ERT has the ability to import stack test data for manual test methods from either a specially
formatted spreadsheet or from an XML file complying with an established Schema (available
through a link in the next paragraph). We have prepared two properly formatted spreadsheet
templates which companies may use to import this field and header data into the ERT. These are
intended to reduce the effort associated with field data entry into the ERT and improve the
reliability of data transcription. The document, Requirements for modifying a spreadsheet for
ERT import (3 pp, 25 K, About PDF), describes how to merge the ERT point and header data
spreadsheet template with a proprietary corporate field data spreadsheet so you can use the
import function into the ERT.

Intranet
An intranet is a closed online communications network. Think of it as being an internal
website accessible only to your employees or selected clients and customers. It’s where staff go
to get stuff done.

Intranet:
Internal or private network of an organization based on internet technology (such as hypertext
and TCP/IP protocols) and accessed over the internet. An intranet is meant for the exclusive use of the
organization and its associates (customers, employees, members, suppliers, etc.) and is protected from
unauthorized access with security systems such as firewalls. Intranets provide services such as email,
data storage, and search and retrieval functions, and are employed in disseminating policy manuals and
internal directories for the employees, price and product information for the customers, and
requirements and specifications for the suppliers.

Intranet Advantages
The motivation for deploying intranet software varies from company to company. It
could be a need to streamline daily business processes, or wanting to organize people and data
more effectively. The intranet is also a great enabler of communications and so often the primary
motivation is a desire to improve internal communications. Other drivers include needing to
increase employee engagement or break down internal information silos and enhance
collaboration and team working.
Whatever the case may be, the intranet’s flexible and comprehensive offering means that most
businesses quickly find their company intranet becomes an essential workplace tool.

An intranet server is the hardware used to host the intranet software and data. You can host your
intranet internally on a company server or externally on a third-party server usually in the cloud.
Nowadays, most companies decide to go for a cloud option rather than hosting the intranet on a
company server. Cloud intranets have a number of advantages. They’re quicker to set up and
easier to manage, are cost-effective and have minimal downtime. What’s more, the cloud
provider retains responsibility for all software updates and backups as well as the security of the
intranet site. This includes firewalls, SSL encryption and all the latest cybersecurity features.
A downside of using an external intranet server is the overall loss of control. It means that your
company data is being managed by a third party. Some businesses feel uncomfortable with this,
however, for many more the provider’s protocols offer a guarantee that data will be handled
appropriately.
Hosting your intranet on the company server may seem like a convenient option, especially for
larger companies that already have on-site servers and an internal IT resource. There are,
however, a number of disadvantages that you need to fully evaluate including:

 Self-hosting is time and resource intensive and takes up valuable physical space.
 Flexibility and adaptability can be impaired.
 Ongoing hardware and software issues are your responsibility.
 Security assurance is down to you.

Extranet:
An extranet is a private network that uses Internet technology and the public
telecommunication system to securely share part of a business's information or operations with
suppliers, vendors, partners, customers, or other businesses. An extranet can be viewed as part of
a company's intranet that is extended to users outside the company. It has also been described as
a "state of mind" in which the Internet is perceived as a way to do business with other companies
as well as to sell products to customers.
An extranet requires security and privacy. These can include firewall server management, the
issuance and use of digital certificates or similar means of user authentication, encryption of
messages, and the use of virtual private networks (VPNs) that tunnel through the public network.
Companies can use an extranet to:
 Exchange large volumes of data using Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)
 Share product catalogs exclusively with wholesalers or those "in the trade"
 Collaborate with other companies on joint development efforts
 Jointly develop and use training programs with other companies
 Provide or access services provided by one company to a group of other companies, such
as an online banking application managed by one company on behalf of affiliated banks
 Share news of common interest exclusively with partner companies

Similarities and Dissimilarities of Intranet and Extranet:

Similarities: between the internet and intranet

 Both the internet and the extranet need an IP (internet protocol) address for
communication purposes. These include protocols like the FTP and TCP-IP.
 Both have instant messaging platforms. The intranet has a messaging service similar to
G-Talk or yahoo messenger.
  Both need to be accessed through a web browser. Both have websites – with intranet
users also needing a customized web browser to access their own specific hosted
websites.
 Both use similar security features enabling data encryption and decryption, as well as a
firewall. Intranet users might use different encryption techniques, however, to protect
their data further.

Dissimilarities: between the internet and intranet

Internet Intranet Extranet

A global network which is An intranet is unique to an Extranet is for individuals or

available to anyone who organization or group of group of personnel who

wants to access people who work together at a want to send private

information place information

Privacy

Public Private intermediately Extremely Private

Dependency

Independent yet dependent on Dependent on internet and

Independent
internet intranet

Firewall
 No Can have Yes

Evolution of EMAIL:

What is Evolution?
The theory of evolution is based on the idea that all species? are related and gradually
change over time. Evolution relies on there being genetic variation? in a population which affects
the physical characteristics (phenotype) of an organism.

What is EMAIL?
Email, as a means of electronically sending messages between two people, is said to have
begun at MIT in the 1960s. The system was crude, and basically amounted to different users
leaving notes for each other stored on the same shared computer. This was a precursor to today’s
method of sending an email across a network, which, incidentally, was created not too much
later.

The First Network Email

The backbone of our current email system began with ARPANET, near the end of 1971,
by Ray Tomlinson, an ARPANET contractor working for Bolk Beranek and Newman.
ARPANET was the network created by the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA) of the
United States Department of Defense during the Cold War. Tomlinson’s goal was to take his
existing basic messaging system, SNGMSG, and take it to the next logical evolution, indicating
for a given message which user was at which of the network’s computers.

Email Exchange Today

The principles behind the ARPANET extended to the Internet that followed. Messages
are now sent via a local electronic mail server, which then relays to the intended destination
using SMTP, or Simple Mail Transfer Protocol, read using Post Office Protocol (POP) or
Internet Message Access Protocol (IMAP) which access the mail server that received the
message. Many companies have local mail servers of this kind, which manage the incoming and
outgoing messages workers send and receive internally or from outside their network. The next
step, which many companies have started to take, uses services like Microsoft Exchange
Hosting. While local mail servers get the basic job done, numerous factors make hosting a mail
server off-site a safer option. A hosted exchange service, in short, acts as an intermediary
between senders outside the network and those within, offering an added layer of protection to
catch SPAM, viruses, and other junk or dangerous email. Also, the infrastructures of the kinds of
companies that offer a hosted exchange service, for instance, Microsoft Sharepoint Hosting allow
pretty much guaranteed uptime and security over a cloud-computing network, far more stable
than a company’s local mail server. No offense to affected IT workers! It’s nice to know that in
the event of a robbery, fire, or anything else horrible, that stolen or destroyed equipment doesn’t
mean lost data.

The Future
One possible direction for email could be towards using XMPP instead of SMTP.
Anarchogeek explains the situation well, basically that instant messenger services use a means of
transferring information that is highly permission-based (because of invited friends), usually
resulting in less junk and more quick and pure communication. There are critical mass issues to
overcome in making a transition away from something as prevalent and accepted as SMTP, but
XMPP could very well be the next step in electronic mail.

The Journey of Emails Down Memory Lane

1971
The first network mail was sent on APRANET and this was the first step for electronic mail,
fondly called 'E-mail'

1988
First commercial email client, Microsoft Mail is released for Mac.

1990
Pure text emails were used.

Late 1990s
Introduced us to HTML emails taking over plain text emails.

1993- 1997
Yahoo! Mail, AOL, Hotmail and Gmail gets recognized as email clients.

2009
Responsive emails were introduced and embedded video in email was first used.

2011
Responsive emails grabbed the momentum.

2014
Integration of CSS along with HTML brought in the era of Interactive emails.

2015
CSS animation within email gains momentum.

Advantages and Disadvantages of EMAIL:

Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of email will help you analyze the time you
spend using it.
Advantages:

It's free!
Once you’re online, there is no further expense.

2. Easy to reference
Sent and received messages and attachments can be stored safely, logically and
reliably. It's a lot easier to organize emails than paper.

3. Easy to use
Once you’re set up, sending and receiving messages is simple. That goes for a host of
other email functions. Data storage and contacts can be accessed quickly and easily.

4. Easy to prioritize
Incoming messages have subject lines that mean you can delete without opening. How
much time does that save compared to ‘snail mail?’

5. Speed
 Message to send? Done, under a second! Email is as fast a form of written
communication as any.

6. Global
Web based email means you can access your messages anywhere online. Going
overseas? Before you go, mail yourself a copy of your passport number, travel insurance details
or your accommodation details.

7. Good for the planet

Actually the advantages and disadvantages of email are clear here. Computers themselves
aren’t 'green', but email offsets some of the damage by reducing the environmental cost of
contact.

8. Info at your fingertips

Storing data online means less large, space taking file cabinets, folders and shelves. You
can access information far quicker if you learn how to use email this way.

9. Leverage
Send the same message to any number of people. Adaptations are simple, too. If you have
a product or service to sell, email is an effective medium to get your message out.

10. Send reminders to yourself

Do you use more than one account? Email yourself messages from work to home or vice
versa. Does the idea of two or more accounts seem complicated? It's not if you know how to
manage multiple accounts.

Used well, email really is a superb communication and productivity tool.

Disadvantages:

1. Emotional responses
Some emails cause upset or anger. A reply in the heat of the moment can’t be easily
retracted, but it can cause lasting damage.

2. Information overload
Too many people send too much information. They cover their backs citing ‘need to
know’ as the justification. Learn how to use email effectively and you’ll reduce time wasted on
this.
3. Lacking the Personal Touch
Some things are best left un typed. Email will never beat a hand written card or letter
when it comes to relationships.

4. Misunderstandings
Emails from people who don’t take the time to read what they write before clicking
‘send’. Time is wasted, either to clarify or, worse, acting on a misinterpretation of the message.

5. No Respite
Your email inbox is like a garden; it needs to be constantly maintained. Leave it and will
continue to grow. Ignore it at your peril!

6. Pressure to Reply
Once it’s in your inbox, you feel an ever increasing obligation to act on it. Procrastinating
doesn’t make it go away. Do it, dump it or delegate it.

7. Spam
Having to deal with spam and spoofs is one of the worst avoidable time wasters
online. Use some anti-spam software.

8. Sucks up Your Time

Over checking messages is so common, but it is time wasted on a low value, passive
activity. Better to check once or twice a day.

9. Too Long
How long is too long? It’s hard to say exactly, but the longer it goes on, the harder it is to
take in. Email is suited to brevity - keep it short and sweet.

10. Viruses
A virus could seriously affect your computer. If you want to know how to use email
effectively, it's worth learning how to deal with these.

Impact of Email on Business:

No matter what business you’re in, email has you spoiled. This amazing tech, now
decades old, lets you send messages around the world in seconds, almost for free. From a laptop
or smartphone, you can use email to do business from the beach or the boardroom, and literally
anywhere in between. Although a few uses remain for traditional mail, email can handle all the
basics: ordering, billing, contracts, announcements and more. The impacts are as following:

Lightning-Fast Communication
Communicating by email is almost instantaneous, which enhances communications by
quickly disseminating information and providing fast response to customer inquiries. It also
allows for quicker problem-solving and more streamlined business processes. As a result, small
business owners can accomplish more in less time.
Shrinking Your World
Email reduces geographic and time zone barriers for businesses. Employees or
contractors from around the world can communicate, regardless of their location. Likewise,
customers can send sales questions and support requests by email based on their own time zone
schedules.
Targeting Your Customers
Email lets businesses market to targeted audiences. Customers can opt in to receive email
communications about products they own, sales or new items. Customers who receive targeted
emails based on their preferences are likely to be more receptive. Email marketing can also target
customers based on their status with a business. For example, a business can tailor messaging to
new customers, existing customers and repeat customers.
Efficiency and Productivity
Email can help increase productivity. Business owners can communicate with established
distribution lists, automatically forward information based on a topic, or send information to
specific individuals as needed. Most email software provides customization features you can
tailor to the type of work performed, volume of daily email messages and the needs of the
worker. Effective email use can reduce over-dependence on face-to-face consultations and
meetings.
Penny-Pinching Economy
Moving communications from physical mail to email can result in significant savings in
postage costs, shipping supplies and employee resources. Businesses can also decrease customer
service support costs by focusing on email customer support options rather than phone-based
services.
Used by Almost Everyone
In past decades, when email was new, businesses caught on quickly to its utility, speed
and low cost. Today, email is a nearly ubiquitous service; almost everyone has at least one email
account, making it a must-have for modern business communications.
Bells, Whistles and Add-ons
Modern email has become more than just simple text messages. You can create colorful,
appealing flyers using the same Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) used to build websites.
Email attachments provide a quick, convenient way to share Adobe Portable Document Format
(PDF) files, spreadsheets, and nearly any type of computer file of 25MB or less. Gone are the
days of scrambling to the fax machine to get a signed contract; electronic technology now lets
you and your business partners sign digital contracts conveniently through email.
Automated Message Handling
A significant business benefit from email is the ability to process incoming and outgoing
messages automatically. Software can automatically file incoming emails by sender, content or
subject. It can automatically respond to inquiries by sending confirmation notices and responses
to messages. Software can also routinely send messages such as reminders, newsletters and
statements without human intervention.

Impact of Internet on Business:

The Impact of internet on business is based on following factors:

 Marketing Opportunities.
 Online Business Opportunities
 Business Automation
 Business Development Opportunities
 Competitive Advantage
 Remote Staff
 Cold Storage for Business
 Employee training Software and Online training programs
 Customers Expect Data and Information