From the Sales Front

QSM Almanac
So far, we've seen a good response to the release of the QSM Software Almanac: IT Metrics Edition. The almanac features over 100 pages of analysis and observations that will give you access to the latest developments in the software industry. This invaluable guide offers a snapshot view of 564 IT projects completed in 2001-2004; characteristics of the industry's best and worst class performers; analysis of interactions between time, effort, size, productivity, and software reuse; industry trends drawn from nearly 5000 IT projects completed between 1980-2004; and much more. Don't be the last to get yours! Visit our website for more information and testimonials.

Upcoming Trade Shows
Below is a schedule of the upcoming trade shows where QSM will be exhibiting in the spring. Please feel free to stop by and see us for a free SLIM demo and more information on our products and services.

If you would like to set up an appointment at one of the upcoming trade shows or for more information regarding SLIM products, services, and training, please contact Keith Ciocco by email at keith_ciocco@qsm.com or phone 703-749-3812.

From the R&D Lab

SLIM 6.3 Release Designed to Better Integrate QSM Tools with External Applications
Due to a high demand for customers to interface their own frequently used applications with the QSM tool suite, QSM has continued to enhance the SLIM-Suite API (Application Programming Interface). The two most basic reasons for this release are to allow users to seamlessly move data between applications and to leverage the power of the SLIM calculating engine. For example, the interface between SLIM-Estimate and Microsoft Project has been improved to make it easier to use and extend its functionality. MS Project import and export functions are also now part of the SLIM-Suite API, allowing users to perform these functions remotely. Another example of the API capability would be if a user created their own web-based data collection tool that accesses SLIM-DataManager remotely to validate and copy the info into their central SMP file. This would allow for easier data entry by many project managers, and thus increase the volume and integrity of the data.

Using the SLIM-Estimate API as a calculating engine allows user to set Solution Assumption values and receive them via the API. Users can also retrieve and generate solutions via the API without ever opening SLIM-Estimate. Here's one example of how a company might use these features. Often, it is far easier to aggregate and review projects when there is a consistent standard or baseline in place. So if a company wanted all estimates to be consistent, they could process SLIM-Estimate workbooks with a custom Visual Basic (VB) utility which accepts or rejects the estimate based on company defined criteria. Using the SLIM-Estimate API, the VB utility program examines the conditions set by the company and SLIM-Estimate assesses the final solution for conditions not satisfied.

It is also possible to link SLIM-Estimate to PowerPoint and graphics packages to generate powerful presentations. The slides are updated in real time as estimates are re-run, eliminating the need to re-insert graphs.

These are just a few of the real-world scenarios where a user could use the new SLIM-Suite API. To get more information, please contact Keith Ciocco at keith_ciocco@qsm.com or 703-749-3818.

QSM Europe

QSM Europe will be at the following upcoming trade shows:

For more information about QSM Europe, please visit www.qsm-europe.com.

From the Support Center

QSM Data Call for Trend Lines Update
It's time to think about the next industry update. Contributing projects is a great way to make sure your lifecycle, tools, and languages are reflected in the newest trend lines. Having a variety of project types in the database also helps us to do a better job of answering your questions when you call for help with estimates, tracking and forecasting, or benchmarking your completed projects. As an added incentive, if you donate 10 or more projects, you'll receive a complimentary copy of the latest QSM IT Almanac (a $500 value) as a thank you for your contribution.

We prefer SLIM-DataManager or completed SLIM-Control files, but will consider data in other formats. If you're interested in contributing data or have questions about the process, please contact Kate Armel at 301-865-8242 or kate_armel@qsm.com. We'll make it easy for you - just give us a call or send us an email today to find out how your organization can become part of the QSM database.

QSM Announces 2006 Users Conference
QSM recently announced the date of the 2006 Users Conference in McLean, VA. The conference will be held at the Tower Club in Tysons Corner on September 28, 2006. Speakers will be: Gaylord Yu, Motorola; Feno Monaco, Allstate; Joe Madden, BearingPoint; and Garry Riechers, Lockheed Martin. To reserve your spot or to get more information, please contact Elisabeth Thayer at 703-749-3819 or you can send an email to elisabeth_thayer@qsm.com.

SLIM Training
If you have a need for training, please contact your sales rep or Keith Ciocco at keith_ciocco@qsm.com or 703-749-3812. If you are unable to make it to McLean, Va for any of the upcoming scheduled training dates below, on-site training is available, as is our "Train the Trainer" program for companies with big needs.

QSM Europe Class Schedule
Classes will be held at the QSM Europe office in Breukelen, Netherlands. If you are unable to come to Breukelen for any of the upcoming scheduled training dates, on-site training is available, as is the newly developed one day executive introduction. If you have a need for training, please contact Ernst van Waning at ernst.van.waning@qsm-europe.com or call +31 346 566 952.

Call QSM today for a FREE DEMO
of our best in class SLIM-Suite Estimation Products
800 424 6755

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