Performance Books

Vladimir Silva's GRID COMPUTING FOR DEVELOPERS tells of a promising new technology, exploring the evolution of Grid computing from early distributed computing ideas to its modern environment. From de facto standards for Grid computing to development guides for Grid services, commodity Grid kits for Java and Perl, and source code samples, A DEVELOPER'S GUIDE TO GRID COMPUTING is perfet for computer scientists who want a head start on the next generation of IT Grid computing.

Grid computing promises to be the next big wave in high performance computing. While the power of today's PC's has gotten relatively huge, easily passing the supercomputers of not so long ago, there are still certain applications in weather, nuclear physics, bioinformatics and other areas where far more computing power is needed.

The first step was to take a bunch of PC's and cluster them together to make a more powerful system. When these large massively parallel systems were built, it then became clear that taking several of these from around the country or even the world could produce 'systems' of considerably more power.

The answer was 'The Grid.' Funded by the US Government, work began several years ago to produce the basic tools needed to make Grid computing work. This book clearly explains, in a practical sense, what Grid computing has become today. It gives some background and description of grid computing. Then it goes into the software that has been written that enables the practical use of such systems.

The book is comprehensive enough that it could be used by students or administrators that are working with or even just considering using a grid architecture.

This book covers a lot of stuff! From installation transcripts for GT 2,3,4, scheduler installation, customization to Grid portal development. The book has little theory but I found some interesting numbers on the potential growth of the grid computing market over the next few years. It has a lot of source code and plenty of images to support it thus it is targeted to software engineers and developers involved on grid computing.

There is some complex math (related to large integer factorization) which is hard to understand for the novice but overall I give it five stars. All major protocols used by the globus toolkit are explained: resource allocation, data management, and security.

P.S: There is also a few chapters dedicated to the Message Passing Interface (MPI) with examples and some integration tips with the Globus Resource Allocation Manager (GRAM) which I found unique.

This book is preety darn good. I covers a broad range of grid topics such as: grid middleware, resource managers, schedulers, parallel computing with MPI, etc.
I specially liked the chapter on grid enabled portal development. It has helped me a lot at work. There is also a comprehensive guide to the Globus toolkit (GT3, GT4, WSRF) that is full of samples, transcripts and troubleshooting tips.

Overall, I think this book is a great tool for the grid engineer and developer.

Cheers.

This is great tool to help you bild calm, happy state of mind. I highly recomend this! Very talanted and inspiring work. Charlie.

This meditation and guided imagery session is extremely helpful for reducing anxiety and particularly performance anxiety. True to its title, it also helps to improve self-confidence. I find it useful to listen at night, as I am falling asleep. Just as Belleruth suggests, I find the thoughts repeating in my mind as I go through my day, calming and encouraging me. I have several of Belleruth's products (e.g., Grief, and Wellness) and I highly recommend all of them.

I have found this CD to improve my overall daily state of mind. I find that I am less stressed on a daily basis and my ability to make quick and reliable decisions has also improved. Simply put; I feel more serene.

Naparstek did an amazing job when she created this CD. Not just with the words she chose but also with the music. By listening to the CD, you are meditating upon words that are enhanced with the music. I believe this gives the CD a more powerful impact. I never really thought about listenting to a motivational CD. I really didn't think I needed it. But i'm very glad that I took a friend's advice because this CD has really helped me with my self-confidence. and not just with that but also I feel that i can focus better. I also haven't felt any anxiety since i started to listen to it. I started off listening to it every night before I went to bed. Now i probably just listen to it once a week. It's a great CD I hope you try it!

Materials covered in certain chapters are equivalent to a one semester class at MIT.. though in less detail, the lucid explanation of the fundamental concepts are impressive.. this book is a very good start for someone who has never touched the subject of Parallel Computing before.

This book provides great insight into the _performance_ of hardware. How can one be a good programmer without knowing how it is that data gets to memory, how data flows through the CPU and what it is in the hardware that makes ones code fast or slow? It amazes me that most of the developers that I work with are ignorant or could not care less about the effects of cache misses, what superscalar/superpipelined really means, and how a "improper" stride through their array can make the performance of their code deplorable. This book makes for a great read and is guaranteed to make a programmer a better programmer.

Explains very nicely and precisely the HW fundamentals of the multiprocessors, memory, insights in software and optimization concepts. Very much useful for not to get confused by the buzzwords in the super computer industry. Good book for both the engineers and the sales people of hardware companies. If you are new engineer in processor design or compiler architecture jobs, this book gives lot of insight and learning needed for your job.

It is an excellent book I have read. It includes the latest state of art IA-64 architure, RISC, compiler ...

Michael Wallach's "How to Get Arrested" is a brilliant parable that proves that making the right moves is always preceded by arduous homework. Success is all about creating your unique brand, building and nurturing relationships, and networking--no matter what field you're in! I have recommended this book to my graduate MBA students, my corporate clients, and especially the actors I work with.
Dr. Gilda Carle, Relationship Expert and Author of "Don't Bet on the Prince!"

I was so surprised at what a great book this is for actors. It breaks down what to do and how to do it. Most industry book tell actors "Go get an agent" and then B.S. with more empty advise - THEY DO NOT TELL YOU HOW TO GET THE AGENT!!!! This book does! It also tells you how to get the job! This book is more important for actors than any acting class in LA or New York City. THANKS MICHAEL J.WALLACH AND BRAVO!

As I was reading "How To Get Arrested," I thought about how skilled we all are at putting on our own personal variety `show' to get what we want out of life. Dick and Jane, the central characters in this parable, put on a variety of `shows' to achieve their goal of relocating to Hollywood. Once they land in Tinsel Town, they attempt to turn their personal `shows' into a Professional Show Business Career. It doesn't take them very long to discover that there is a right way and a wrong way to launch a professional career. As Dick and Jane pursue their dream of becoming stars, it is fascinating to watch one of them reach out and acquire professional skills that ultimately results in success, as the other isolates and keeps putting on their same old `act' that quickly results in failure. I laughed. I cried. And as I finished the last page, I smiled and thought about the fact that if I had read this book thirty years ago, it would have dramatically reduced the time it took me to make it. This is a show-stopping book, worthy of a standing ovation; a must-read for the aspiring entertainer.

I've read a lot of acting books how to study this technique, that technique, when you get to Hollywood or New York what you need to know is "How to Get Arrested"... How to make it, survive, get your SAG card, an agent, a manager.
This brilliant book that Michael Wallach has put together is an easy read while focusing on the steps of success to making it in show business. What you need to bring to the table is yourself and "How to get Arrested" once you get to LA or NY. "How to Get Arrested" has the answers for you. If my niece was moving out here to be an actress, I would give her a big hug and hand her a copy of Michael Wallach book!

Written for HR Professionals, this book will help you to measure the results of HR initiatives and communicate them effectively to executives. In the world of Human Resources, this book is well organized and useful. This book is practical and tactical, and contains interesting case studies and useful templates. Phillips adapts his ROI methodology for corporate training and applies it more generally to all Human Resources initiatives. Measuring so called "soft" subjects like training and HR has been a difficult and ongoing issue for practitioners who need to convince executives that their work contributes to the bottom line and adds value to the organization. Phillips provides a framework for measurement which, while not perfect, will give you results that executives can understand and help you build the case for why money spent on developing employees is not money thrown away.

Super reference guide. Case studies are well organized and meaningful.

As a former director or vice president of human resources in three different large companies over 14 years, I can't remember the number of times my bosses and peers challenged me to provide the business case for one hr program or another, either when developing a budget for the coming fiscal year, or defending a budget during hard times. For years, I lost more of those arguments than I won because I didn't always hold myself accountable to the same standards to which other functions were held, nor was I expected to. Over time, my staffs and I got better at measuring the impact of our strategies on various measures of organizational performance, and with that came budgetary "victories" and greater respect as business partners. That's what The Human Resources Scorecard is all about, and by reading and using the wisdom it contains, newcomers to the hr function and late adapters of hr measurement, can enjoy in relatively short order success and respect, which are the "price of admission" to the "executive suite". Having achieved that credibility, we then have the challenge of elevating our conversations with our bosses, peers and clients regarding the intangible dimensions of human and organizational soul, but that's another book in this series.

This is a comprehensive guide for evaluating any type of Human Resource Development (HRD) program. Even if you do not have a background in measurement and evaluation, you would be able to pick up this book and begin to understand the important aspects to consider in evaluation and how to plan and conduct an effective evaluation. The case studies in this book are valuable because they go into detail - you feel you have been a part of the program described. The authors are experienced practitioners who have alot to share and they do a terrific job providing the reader with the benefits of their experience.

Tootson and Tesoro in Global Performance Measurement Systems and companion CD provide practical insights into the often misunderstood field of performance measurement. Many business people talk a lot about measuring the effect of training, consulting, and other expensive corporate initatives this book shows you in detail how to do it. I'd strongly recommend this book to anyone who has to sell "big ticket ideas" internally or externally and wants to differentiate themselves from the superficial. It's about time we had a business book that wasn't generic pablum.

As with any "Cookbook" the results of your efforts will be directly proportional to the quality of the ingredients you use. This book provides clear guidelines and examples on the right ingredients and how to measure them. It is easy to follow - providing clear, concise methodolgy for global performance metrics which are applicable in a variety of business settings.

As an 18 year Human Resource practitioner, both on the corporate and consulting side, I've had to sell "big ideas" in many companies to numerous business leaders. This book contains, under one cover, a complete, thorough and tested methodology to form the building blocks to not only sell the ideas, but also to measure the outcomes for even better future programs.

The tools provided in the CD are excellent and make the book a valuable resource that you'll find yourself refering to time and time again. I'd recommended this book to anyone serious about making an impact from a Human Resource perspective or any "soft science." A must read in today's competitive environment where companies don't have time to not get the most bang for the buck.

The book is a great resource for practitioners and trainers (especially those who are just starting) who are familiarizing themselves with the scope, processes, and issues involved in planning, developing and implementing a performance measurement system. It provides a comprehensive overview of performance measurement and related terms as well as illustrates succintly the relationship between theory behind measuring performance in business and industry, and practice related to performance improvement. The four steps that the authors outlined as their cookbook approach exudes simplicity of ideas that anybody involved in training and development, HRD, etc., can relate. The use of a case throughout the book provides a common thread that grounds you, the reader, to reflection and application mode as you attempt to make sense of how the analysis tools can be used in your own practice. Definitely a good buy and a great addition to a consultant's library. For those who are thinking of consulting or working in areas involving performance improvement, the book is definitely something you need to have -- great "how-to" content, usable tools, simple layout and easy to read.

"Indispensible for a novice producer of independent movies. This book helps one to understand the way distributors think, which is absolutely essential for getting your movie to audiences. The discussions on business plans and presentations to investors alone is worth the price of the book." --RMS

"This could be the most important single book I ever read. Over the past few years I have spent several hundred thousand dollars putting together a series of digital videos on all seven continents (including one video with my daughter and I biking on all seven continents in one trip).

This book is the absolute perfect guide on not only helping me evaluate the marketability of these tapes, but also helping me determine HOW to, and to whom to market. Mark Steven Bosko is a brilliant writer whose insightfulness will be invaluable to those trying to get their film to the market.

Bill Kizorek - producer, filmmaker, Two Parrot Exotic Travel Videos

The Independent Film and Videomaker's Guide

If you are interested in independent film making, this is the BEST starting point in your research. It could very well be your last. This book not only answered every question I had, it raised and answered some I had not even thought of! Mr. Wiese's writing style, while professional, is very personable as well. He is very focused on discovering your creative side while balancing the necessary business practices to get your project done. Well worth the money.

This is a fantastic book! It covers everything, and I mean EVERYTHING from Pre-production, to Distribution, in great DETAIL! Is this the only book you should ever buy...of course not, but it's one you have to own.

I was happy when I read Information Economic by Marilyn M. Parker. I will be happy if I can discuss Information Economics with Mr. Marilyn M. Parker. Althaugh, I get new knowledge form the book, but I want to learn Information Economic more. Because I was very intersted to the topics. Thank

I'm using this book as a main part of my Master Business Administration final work. I'd like to know the authors or people to exchange some info concerning the subject

This book presents a concise approach to evaluating IT technology projects. Though the examples cited are definitely not "up to date", the concepts and approaches ring truer today than in the 1980s when this was published.

After my MBA final work, I comment the Parker book is a classical source of knowledge that most students must access concerning IT value. However, other updated books with new perceptions are needed as well.

Inside Knowledge is a fantastic presentation of real world processes and creative resolution to many business concerns enfolded into a very entertaining story. The fiction holds your attention while conveying brilliant ideas useful to professionals at all levels of management and in nearly any industry. Worth every penny!

As a senior operations professional and practitioner for over 20 years, I found this book to accurately portray the interrelation and organizational challenges that companies grope with on a continual basis, and yet provide the tenets to foster collaborative best practices in an interdisciplinary environment. It is richly humorous and straight to the point. Written in a fictitious manufacturing setting, the authors provide incredible connectivity across their main characters and a compelling story of leadership and management to exemplify their points and hypotheses, wise sages they are indeed. A very poignant look at management innovation, and lessons for furthering it. A must read for anyone intent on unlocking the true value of their enterprise by leveraging the knowledge, synergies, and functional dynamics of their organizational assets.

This book should be read by entry level to experienced business professionals who seek to assist their company in overcoming challenging situations through the use of knowledge management. "Inside Knowledge" is a useful guide for how to achieve employee peformance improvement & customer service oriented goals because it clearly explains how theoretical knowledge differs from pragmatic and profound knowledge and why theoretical knowledge does not best serve us in the workplace. One of the aspects I liked best in the book was how it unified owners, managers, and employees with concise approaches for how to get key players to work toward a common goal. The lessons provided by Fearon & Cavaleri are not only excellent business lessons, but also great lesons to be learned & applied to daily life.

An easily read description of the idea fostering a learning organization. Not only that, but a nail bitting story that demostrates how continuous improvenent through practical learning and experimenting can unfold. I would recomment the book to anyone who has faced a complacent workplace.

Ever since I was about three (I'm [age] now) I've listened to almost all her stories... my parents recorded them off the radio for me, and i usually listened to them when I went to bed. I still have "jack was born a lazy baby" going through my head. For the longest time, I had memorized the entire story "jack in the army", haints and all... This is probably the most influential part of my childhood, and when I get kids, I'll give them the same tapes I used to have.

Jackie Torrence is truly one of the greatest living storytellers and has been at the very heart of the Storytelling Renaissance. To hear her is the best, and audio--even video--tapes cannot help but lack the fire and energy of Jackie herself. This book is sheer delight for someone who has heard and seen Jackie--I could hear her as if she were sitting beside me again. I don't know how effective this book will be for someone who is unfamiliar with this wonderful lady, but it does offer many specific, powerful techniques for storytelling performance that are effective even for the beginner. For those of us who know and love Jackie, it is a treat to sit down and hear and see her in these exquisite photographs which truly, as well as still photography can, capture the magic of Jackie Torrence's quicksilver expressions and dancing hands. If you can't have Jackie, have this book. But do what you must to hear and see Jackie in person too!

Jackie Torrrence has rightly earned a reputation as the "First Lady of Storytelling." She has elevated the art of "porch style telling" to new heights, with her expressive facial and hand gestures, beautiful diction and direct approach to her listeners. Unfortunately, because of medical concerns she is not able to perform any longer, though she continues to work with apprentices in the art.

How fortunate, then, that we have this book of her favorite stories, with wonderful photographs on every page that come very close to capturing the essence of a "Jackie telling." Sprinkled liberally throughout are Jackie's tips for telling these stories, as well as her personal philosophy about the various types of stories included. Most inspiring, though, is her sharing of her personal story, of her positive outlook on life and the will to accept and work with whatever burdens we might face. This volume is highly recommended for lovers of story everywhere.

Until a week ago I was ignorant of Jackie Torrence's existence. "I don't know how effective this book will be for someone who is unfamiliar with this wonderful lady" states an earlier review. After hearing just a snippet on NPR about the book, I rushed to get it, and have truly enjoyed it. Jackie has made me a storyteller! Parents, aunts, uncles, educators, sages, grandparents, and anyone who enjoys entertaining should open this book. Jackie provides traditional stories with cues and suggestions on how to bring the words alive. The book works. I'll never be Jackie, but my nephews love my new-found talent. The photographs are heartwarming.