Cloud Computing and Security Debate and the Student-Managed Investment Fund EXECUTIVE CORNER Cloud Computing and Security Debate Continues There is little doubt the most talked about topic in the information technology world is the debate over the benefits and security concerns of using cloud-based systems. For a long time, it seemed that there were only two sides of the argument: Pro-Cloud Argument – "Cloud computing offers so many advantages of sharing data and outsourcing the data backup and hardware support. Sure, there may be issues regarding the security of my data. But, somebody else is looking after that.... Aren't they?" Anti-Cloud Argument – "My data is much safer in my office behind my company firewall. I have a solid network that is well administered by my staff. I do not see the benefits of cloud computing." We believe that both of these arguments have some merit, but both are overly simplistic. In many ways the security supporting cloud-based solutions is far superior to that which many offices have for their firewalls and overall security protection. Therefore, to argue that your office environment is more secure than a cloud-based solution may not stand up to scrutiny. Certainly, there are significant data-sharing and hardware support benefits to be had from cloud-based solutions. However, these features may solve problems that some clients do not have. Before adopting any new technology, be sure you are solving a real problem that you actually experience or are susceptible to. In light of these considerations, we have developed a strategy that does not fully embrace either of the above two arguments. Our strategy is a middle ground and can be described as: Moving Forward Cautiously We believe there are many strong arguments for the benefits of cloud-based technologies. However, data security is a critical issue that must be understood and addressed with the proper technical resources. While we move forward with promising technologies like cloud computing, we still remain cautious. We believe it is better to be overly cautious than extremely sorry for allowing a data breach. In line with this strategic thinking, we have developed three company policies.[http://blog.finnav.com/technology/cloud-computing-and-security-debate-continues] Happy Navigating! Ed Van Deman CEO Editor's Note: We are always interested in your comments and feedback. You can write to us at: [[email protected]]. CUSTOMER SUPPORT Three Steps to Efficient Technical Support Because we understand the critical importance of customer support, FNI encourages users to contact us whenever you have a question about our software or how it works. It only takes a few minutes to ensure you are handling an issue the right way, which is far better than forging ahead and possibly creating a tangle of confusion. You can help make the process quick and easy. By taking the following steps before you contact our Technical Support department, you could significantly reduce the amount of time required to resolve your issue. Step #1: What's the Problem? Letting our support team know as many details as possible about the problem you are experiencing will speed up the process tremendously. Step #2: Back Up Your Database Before calling in for support, always back up your FN database, in order to save and protect your most recent work. Step #3: Prepare for GoToMeeting® GoToMeeting is a web-hosted service created by Citrix Systems® for online meetings, desktop sharing, and video conferencing. Our support team utilizes GoToMeeting every day for training, support calls and to solve user problems. [http://blog.finnav.com/education/three-steps-to-efficient-technical-support] INVESTMENT EDUCATION Helping to Develop Future Investment Professionals One of the ways Financial Navigator, Inc. gives back to the community is through its sponsorship of the Financial Navigator Student-Managed Investment Fund (a.k.a. the "Spartan Fund") at San Jose State University (SJSU). Our goal is to help nurture future financial leaders by providing students in the Lucas College and Graduate School of Business with the opportunity to manage an investment fund using real money. The still-young Spartan Fund has evolved over the past few semesters. In fact, it has outperformed the S&P 500 over the last two quarters. [http://blog.finnav.com/education/helping-to-develop-future-investment-professionals] Connect With Us Customer Support: 1-800-468-3636 x2050 [[email protected]] Sales Inquiries: 1-800-468-3636 x2000 [[email protected]] You are receiving this email because you expressed interest in Financial Navigator, Inc. You can opt out http://em.finnav.com/t/r-u-ajulhjk-dldrhujlo-yd/ anytime.