Recently, our security monitoring has seen an increase in suspicious software downloads and installations. Since none of the customers with this suspicious software recall intentionally downloading or installing the software, we wanted to make you aware of this trend. Software we have seen most-often are Wave Browser and OneLaunch, and most people do not realize that this software has replaced their default web browser, or that they even downloaded it. As one can imagine, using a questionable web browser allows an untrusted software vendor to access a significant amount of information.
In our experience, this software is bundled when staff attempt to download legitimate software. To avoid installing unwanted and potentially malicious software, follow these recommendations:
- Review the need for software and only install software when absolutely necessary. Microsoft Office as well as the Chrome and Edge web browsers can handle a great deal of the tasks anyone might need.
- Verify that your organization approves of the software you wish to use.
- Only download the software from the software developer’s website.
- Review the first few Google search results before clicking on the first one. Questionable software download sites pay to appear above legitimate software developers in search results.
- Double-check the web address before clicking the download button. (see the example below)
If you have any questions, our staff is always available to help evaluate available software and ensure software is downloaded and installed safely. |
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Lenovo computers require a hardware update from time to time. This can be done easily using the Lenovo Vantage software. We’ve installed this software when initially configuring your Lenovo computer.
To proceed with the update, simply click on the notification or open the Lenovo Vantage application. Follow the on-screen instructions to initiate the update process. This update is a routine maintenance to improve your computing experience and keep you secure.
Pop-up notifications will look like one of the images below, depending on the version you are running: |
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| If you have any concerns or questions regarding the update, feel free to reach out to our support team for assistance. |
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| Jim Houswerth |
| Please join us in welcoming Jim Houswerth, the newest member of the network team. Before working with AT, Jim led a service team for a local swimming pool installer, teaching maintenance care for new technicians and pool owners old and new. There he also managed their network and devices for 7 years and received his CompTIA A+ certification. Prior to that, Jim worked for a roadside service as an escalations dispatcher. He studied Biology at Loyola University Chicago and has been an enthusiastic PC builder since childhood. In his free time, he also enjoys board gaming with his partner Jess, walks with their mastiff Roman, and recently learning how to roller skate. |
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| Granquist's Favorite Games |
I thought this month we should deviate from our normal tech topics and cover an AT favorite - Board Games (yes we are geeks). I'm sure this will come as a shock to many of you but there are several of us at AT that enjoy a good board/card game. Now I'm not talking about the many childhood classics - Sorry, Checkers, Uno, etc. Games have evolved since I was a kid. Back in the early days of AT we would relieve stress by playing a quick game on the Xbox or a game of horse (yes we had a basketball hoop). When Brian Hines joined us we started an occasional "game night". Here is a quick list of a few of my personal favorites:
Settlers of Catan - This is a classic board game that can be the most fun or frustrating game you have played. Players gather resources and build settlements on an island map made up of hexagon tiles. Every time you play you get a new map! There are various ways to earn "points" which win the game once a player reaches ten. Like many popular games, there have been numerous expansions and spinoffs but the original is still one of my favorites.
Scythe - Would you like a true strategy game? My family has officially voted this game as the one that relies the least on luck! This game is set in an alternate version of history after WWI. The board and cards are covered in high quality artwork adding to the overall appeal. Players select a faction (basically a country) and produce, build and battle their way to victory. The player with the most money wins the game. My favorite faction? It's a toss up between Republic of Polania and Crimean Khanate.
Everdell - Who doesn't like cute little woodland creatures? This game tasks the players to build a city over the course of four seasons by recruiting workers and gathering resources. It is a shockingly fun and strategic game which is enhanced by a well-designed board and creative cards. Brian introduced this game at a recent game night (which Noah won) and it has quickly become a new family favorite. The best character is obviously the Hedgehog.
Wizard (card game) - This is a classic "trick" taking game. The deck is a normal deck of 52 cards with the addition of four wizards and four jesters. The game begins with everyone being dealt one card and then bidding on the "tricks" they can win. After that first round, an additional card is added each round until every card is dealt in the final round.
All these games can be found on Amazon if you are interested in adding them to your inventory. If you enjoy games and a little competition come join us for our next AT game night! |
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In the ever-evolving landscape of association technology, the recent NiUG TechXchange conference emerged as a beacon of innovation and collaboration. Hosted by NiUG International and proudly supported by AT, this event brought together professionals to explore the latest advancements, share best practices, and chart the course for the future of association technology.
The NiUG TechXchange conference served as a nexus of ideas, where attendees delved into the intricacies of cutting-edge technologies, discussed practical applications, and engaged in hands-on workshops. From Artificial Intelligence to Intelligent Query Architecture, Power BI to EMS optimization, the conference showcased a diverse array of sessions aimed at empowering attendees with the knowledge and tools to navigate the rapidly evolving tech landscape.
One of the sessions we would like to highlight was focused on unveiling Power BI insights and integration strategies. Here's a brief recap of the key takeaways from that session.
Diverse Integration Options:
The session emphasized multiple methods for getting your iMIS data to Power BI:
- File Export: Utilizing traditional file export methods.
- Automation Tools: Leveraging Power Automate, Zapier, and similar tools.
- Custom Integration: Employing Rest API for tailored data transfer.
One of the highlighted integration options was using Azure blob storage. This approach involves placing data in an Azure blob storage container before funneling it into Power BI. This method provides a streamlined and organized data flow.
Bidirectional Joins and Filtering:
An important best practice emphasized during the session was ensuring bidirectional joins and filtering. This approach proves beneficial when selecting items on a visualization, facilitating the filtering down of all visualizations for a more comprehensive analysis.
Let your data tell its’ story by way of Power BI. We can assist with helping guide you in this new frontier for Association’s data analytics.
One of my personal moments of awesome, was in the opening session featuring artificial intelligence (AI), providing attendees with a glimpse into the latest advancements and practical applications for Associations. Did you know that ChatGPT reached one million users within a span of two weeks, highlighting the rapid adoption and widespread interest in AI-powered conversational agents.
Here's a concise recap of the key highlights:
Innovative AI Applications:
- Aragon Headshots: An introduction to Aragon's innovative approach, for image processing or facial recognition.
- DALL-E: Groundbreaking AI model known for its ability to generate creative and diverse images.
- CoPilot: AI tool designed to assist developers in coding, gaining popularity since its launch.
- Gamma: Generative AI for creating dynamic and engaging presentations.
Practical Association Use Cases:
- Event FAQs: Demonstrated the use of AI tool, Miso, within iMIS RiSE. This provided a more interactive user experience in handling Event FAQs. In this example, the PDF files of FAQs were uploaded into Miso. Then Miso was added to a RiSE web page allowing the event attendee to ask questions like, “when is opening session?” or “what is the wifi password?".
- RSS Feed Integration: Exploring the use of RSS feeds to pull in articles, with potential applications for internal content generation and newsletters.
We had a fantastic view into what is coming with iMIS by means of AI, seeing the beta ASI Chat Bot. It was super cool and is sure to be a fan favorite when it is released.
Create your own AI Workshop
But the most important part for us was how we get started. And this session spelled out easily a 12 step workshop that you can do in your office. See the screenshots below of the 12 Workshop Steps provided by NiUG and Keith Stoute, Visual Antidote and let us know if you would like us to help guide you on this AI journey. |
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Evaluate, Plan, and Dive In
With anything new, you should evaluate the solution reviewing the potential impact on your association, and plan a mindful approach for its utilization. It is important to add AI to your data governance mix. ASAE has great resources available to guide you in the AI policy creation process.
NiUG TechXchange's AI session proved to be an immersive journey into the world of artificial intelligence, blending theoretical insights and real-world applications. Attendees feeling more comfortable with diving into this new technology |
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| At Cadmium, we empower associations to harness the power of learning experiences. We stand at the intersection of event, learning, and video technology, providing an integrated suite of solutions that streamline event management and continuing education. We understand that learning is about transformative moments, and we're here to help you share those moments, create community, and drive meaningful change. |
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| What Associations Need to Know About the Executive Order on AI |
Though the provisions in President Biden’s recent executive order on ethical AI don’t directly apply to associations, the EO is a good reminder to prioritize ethical AI practices. Two experts share how associations can take an ethical approach to AI use to protect their organizations and stay ahead of this rapidly changing technology.
Read More |
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| BDO Report: Nonprofits Prioritizing Long-Term Resiliency |
A new BDO benchmarking survey found that amid economic uncertainty, nonprofits are taking steps to strengthen their organizations for the future. Among the ways they’re ensuring resiliency: by updating their mission, diversifying revenue sources, and investing in technology.
Read More |
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We have an archive of our newsletters and industry related
articles available on our website, click HERE to access them.
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| HighRoad Solutions Webinar: Zero to Hero - Why Zero Party Data will Save the Day |
Location: Online
While you’ve made the case for clean data across your organization, teams might still be struggling with why data hygiene is a shared responsibility. As associations continue to fight for attention in inboxes and across digital channels, the need for the right data sets is clear - what’s not is how to offset privacy concerns that prevent marketers from using data sources they have traditionally used. Join us as we share why it’s time to accept that using zero party data is the surefire way to build trust and confidence with your future brand ambassadors. |
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| NiUG Webinar: Unlocking the Potential of iMIS EMS |
Location: Online
Join us for an insightful webinar featuring three organizations and a seasoned iMIS user turned consultant as they share their transformative journeys with iMIS EMS. Whether you're in the initial stages of implementation, or seeking expert guidance, this event offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights and practical advice. Learn from those who have navigated the challenges, discovered 'aha' moments, and acquired essential tips and tricks. Don't miss this opportunity to accelerate your iMIS EMS journey. |
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| Association Forum's Association 101 |
Location: Association Forum Headquarters, 10 S. Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL
An orientation for association professionals, Association 101 is designed to provide a solid foundation of knowledge and appreciation for the unique environment, culture and dynamics of associations. |
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| 2024 Annual iMIS Users Conference |
Location: Crystal Gateway Marriott, Arlington, Virginia
The 2024 Annual iMIS Users Conference is your chance to jump start your career with the tools, strategies, training, and connections you need to advance both your career and your organization. |
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