Anybody in the tech field needing focused boning up on topics that are written by certified specialists should look at two things:
http://www.2000trainers.com/ offers one heck of a lot of explanations on focused topics that are of current and enduring value to know. Iven learned soem Linux things from them and they focus more on pro windows than Open Source stuff, including Microsoft Network, MCSE and equivalent, and network theory. They are not funded by a corporate sponsor, so donations would be appreciated but you are not bombarded with donation requests either. These guys also consult internationally and soemtimes travel and get tidbits not stressed here in the US. They use minimal email.
Those folks who are in business IT need a free account with
http://www.techrepublic.com/ . If I were in corporate IT a lot or a corporately focused IT officer I would pay them and get a full account. I have not tried their books or CDs, but have heard mixed things about them. Their free downloads area is also worth checking for hints, a couple consultant contract templates (which should be lawyer vetted for your own purposes and protection but which are written for consultants in the field and used with minor revisions).
Brian ( Primesuspect ), I would also like to know what your neighborhood lawyer and you think of the Consultant contracts in Techrepublic's downloads area are if things get quiet later on.
They are also THAT good and worth checking out-- even to compare with what you use now.
Techrepublic was so good that CNET bought them and kept the main staff of the site. You will see why if you browse it-- it had been up for 2-3 year before purchase, and the staff are pro writters with tech certs who liked writting more than filed work-- the Gartner Group provides soem of their material and they have a plethora of email newsletters. This is not an enthusiast's site, 2000trainers has more for learners than enthusiasts do not plan on a tech career also, but I know some folks here want careers in tech and not just enthusiast material.
John.
