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August 4, 1999
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04 00032 61 99080401
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Mr. Jeff Ghilardi
Enron
Tehachappi, CA Zip
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Subject:
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Purchase SDS upgrade
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Dear Jeff,
The SDS upgrade code is now on the
web.
You are welcome to download it and experiment with new features per
my record
today, and the
letter
yesterday.
This SDS code runs on multiple drives in order to facilitate uploading to the
web, which is a big part of the value added. I could probably rig it to handle
a one drive system, which I think is the way your computer is configured, but
that would take a dedicated effort. It would be faster just to set your
computer for multiple drives. Wayne Wetzel's computer is configured that way,
so this works for him, although he indicates using the web is not conducive to
management practice at DNRC, so my sense is that he is not using this feature.
Couple of points to keep in mind on upgrading SDS...
- There are a number of new "smart" features, particularly using the
Enter
key to create links. So, it is simple, but you need a walk through.
- I have revised function assignments a bit to streamline linking. This
is not a big deal for you because you have not been using this stuff,
but an orientation is helpful.
- Y2K issues
are resolved in this version. As you might expect Y2K is important to
a schedule and diary program. There is still a possibility
of problems arising. The big
issues are resolved; but, more testing will be done in December.
- There is a slight learning curve to manage the process of uploading to
the web. You need a set of files on your local drive that you can
review to facilitate editing, that mirrors what is placed on the web.
This is all automated and works quickly. As you know, it helps to go
through it a few times with someone, rather than experiment.
- Initially, you can use my web site to start using the system. If you
continue, you will want to use an Enron, or even your own web site. We
need to change the code if you change the URL address.
- You need an FTP program for the actual upload, which I can provide and
set up to apply SDS code.
- Judicious Review
procedures need to be kept in mind to help people who
encounter SDS records on the web for the first time.
Enron might be a candidate for supporting research sponsored by the National
Science Foundation (NSF) to advance Communication Metrics. The proposal is
under review, with award to be made in October and November. If
successful, the next phase requires attracting commercial partners to supplement
government funding. You might see if Enron management feels the
proposal warrants support. This would position Enron to participate in
future upgrades and commercial results.
I appreciate your continuing interest.
Sincerely,
THE WELCH COMPANY
Rod Welch