digital edge

42 DIGITAL EDGE VOL. I, NO.1 2013 7 DIGITAL EDGE VOL. I, NO.1 2013

P R O D U C T & S E R V I C E SP R O D U C T R E V I E WR E V I E W

-Oil & Gas Upstream Workflow -Media & Entertainment -Video Surveillance CCTV -Large Scale Home Directories and File Sharing -Digital Archive, Retention & eDiscovery -High Performance Computing (HPC) -Healthcare Storage Complexity -Massive Data Growth -Higher Education Institutions

—built for agility, simplicity, and value—provide both a ver the years, the IT industry has less physical storage is required to house

tiered storage approach for specialized seen dramatic changes and the same amount of data—reducing capital needs and the ability to unify digital cutting-edge innovations in and operating costs.Oworkflows into a single, high-performance, technology advancement; and Storage highly scalable shared pool of storage. Technology is not left out. We have Every easy-to-manage Isilon solution is experienced amongst other virtualization EMC Isilon's single volume, single file designed to accelerate workflow (server; client and storage); big data; cloud system and simplified management productivity and reduce capital and etc. requires less than one FTE per petabyte, operational expenditures while seamlessly reducing your overall storage scaling storage in lockstep with the growth Data growth is increasing day by day and administration costs.of mission-critical data.this calls for decision makers in IT industry

and the business as a whole to put measures in place for accommodate this With EMC Isilon, you can scale both data. capacity and performance almost instantly

to meet your specific business need—all According to IDC, 80% of all storage without any additional IT burden.capacity sold will be for file-based data only by 2013, which we are in Q1 already. This sends a signal that the traditional EMC Isilon platforms are designed for Block-based storage will be of less simplicity, value, best-in-class important and it will be based on performance, and unmatched reliability. application needs. “Big Data” is really There is no need to over-provision storage changing Enterprise IT. capacity or performance; simply purchase

storage only when you need it and Examples of “Big Data” include: pdf, automatically scale it.multimedia, ppt, doc, xls, vmdk files, Seismic files etc.

More Scalable than Traditional Storage : Scale-out NAS storage that Systems

delivers increased performance for file-based data applications and workflows—from the highest performance I/O-intensive applications, to primary and secondary storage, to near line «Less than 60 seconds to scale with no archives—all from a single file-system downtimearchitecture. «Mix generations, No Data Migrations

Ever Again

An EMC Isilon cluster creates a unified pool of highly efficient storage, with a proven 80 percent storage utilization rate. Therefore,

The EMC Isilon innovative scale-out storage solutions

Single File System

Agility and Flexibility

Best-in-class Performance

Industry's Largest & Most Scalable File System

EMC Isilon Platform Nodes and Accelerators

OneFS™ Scales from 18 TB to Over 15.5 PB in A Single Namespace, Single File System, Single Volume

Highly Efficient StorageEMC Isilon delivers its performance and efficiency in the following industry (but not limited):

EMC ISILON: FILE-BASED STORAGE


P R O D U C T R E V I E WR E V I E W

etApp OnCommand System Manager workflow-based wizards to automate the most Architecture at scale. The newest scale-out is the simple but powerful browser- common device management tasks. A features of Data ONTAP 8.1 can be graphically based management tool that enables dashboard unif ies important system managed, helping provide successful and N

administrators to easily configure and manage information, and this one view allows error-free administration. New Data ONTAP 8.1 individual NetApp storage systems. It is a management of both SAN and NAS storage. Cluster-Mode technology provides peace of simple yet powerful management solution for mind with nonstop operations, and improves NetApp storage—easy for small to midsize Real-time system performance is displayed in a operational efficiency.organizations to use, and efficient for large single multiframe display, including CPU enterprises and service providers. It also comes utilization, I/O throughput, operations, and On command System Manager Key Featureswith wizards and workflows, simplifying latency.common storage tasks such as creating « Easy wizard-driven setupvolumes, LUNS, qtrees, shares, and exports, Powerful administrative capabilities System « Intuitive browser-based GUIwhich saves time and prevents errors. Manager let's administrators easily control the « CIFS, NFS, iSCSI, FC, FCoE configuration

powerful capabilities of NetApp storage « Active Directory and LDAP supportIt works across all NetApp storage: 2000, 3000, systems: disks, pooled storage, shares/exports, « Disk aggregate managementand 6000 series as well as V-Series systems. Snapshot copies, and network configuration. « Storage provisioning

Both SAN (iSCSI/FC/FCoE) and NAS (CIFS/NFS) « Snapshot managementFast, simple setup storage can be managed through the same « SnapMirror, SyncMirror, and SnapLock With OnCommad System Manager, you can view, as well as storage for virtualized supportrapidly configure NetApp storage systems, environments. « vFiler and Vserver managementtypically within minutes after installation. « VMware ESX integrationAutomated storage discovery further simplifies Powerful space-efficiency features such as thin « Data ONTAP 7.2.3 and beyondlocating and configuring existing systems. provisioning, compression, deduplication, and « Data ONTAP 8.1 Cluster-Mode support for The management utility is Web based, can be FlexVol can be managed without the need for up to 24 nodesinstalled on a laptop or server, and runs command-line expertise. « Secure access via password and RSHon either a Windows or a Linux environment. « Secure communications via SSH and SSL

Clustered scale-out storage «Configuration and ongoing data storage Simplified management OnCommand System Manager enables management are easy using the Web-based System Manager provides simple-to-use, administration of the NetApp Unified Storage NetApp OnCommand System Manager.

NetApp OnCommand System Manager

OnCommand System Manager Dashboard shows total capacity, alerts, and utilization by aggregates and volumes within an efficient, unified view.

In order to ensure large data management facilitated our investment in the environment, by organisations in the various sectors of people and the community,” Richmany stated.the economy, Computer Warehouse IGroup (CWG) L imited, a leading He stated that EMC started as a leader in

Information Communication Technology storage, information management, and company recently collaborated with EMC, one information infrastructure, followed by cloud of the global leaders in IT solutions, on an all computing transformation offering IT as a encompassing seminar on how organisations service. According to him, cloud transform can effectively manage their data and offer information technology, big data transform cloud computing service to customers for businesses, and the journey to cloud starts optimal benefits. The seminar saw with virtualisation which helps to reduce cost representatives of leading organisations in of operation, accelerate higher efficiency and attendance, with presentations on how increases productivity and performance.operational cost, large data without security

Commending CWG in fostering an enduring flaws and support on delivering IT as a service EMC started as a leader in storage, partnership for sponsoring the seminar, he can be effectively utilised. information management, and information said the company which is also operational in infrastructure, followed by cloud computing Ghana, Uganda and Cameroon, is at the Speaking at the event, Mr. Fady Richmany, transformation offering IT as a service. Cloud forefront of delivering IT solutions through its Regional Managing Director, Emerging Africa transforms information technology, big data divisions, the Computer Warehouse Limited, and Lebanon, EMC, said the increase in data transform businesses, and the journey to hardware arm; ExpertEdge Software, and DCC has called for proper management, as it cloud starts with virtualisation which helps to Networks, its communications arm.transform businesses and also define their reduce cost of operation, accelerate higher

mode of operation. He stated that the efficiency and increases productivity and company sees lots of opportunities in the performance.telecom sector and this has prompted its presence in the country since 2008, and has Furthermore, Mr. Rasheed Ola Jimoh, helped its customers to transform their Regional Manager, English speaking West operations from where it was to their present Africa, EMC, explained that information is a position. major asset and any organisation that looks to

its productivity, its people, and future should “And today we are proud to say that we have look to proper storage and protection, and support the big players in the vital sector of this has been made easy with the cloud, the economy, from the telecom companies to separating applications from physical SSI, Oil and Gas, to Financial institutions, and infrastructure which has led to the delivering EMC has a strong team here which has of IT as a service.

CWG understands that local support is a crucial ingredient for success and her sales strategy is hinged on customer referrals obtained by providing the 'ultimate in customer satisfaction' to her customers. CWG's proven ability to deliver and support world class solutions has created an immense sense of trust, integrity and partnership with all of her customers; and that has always guaranteed peace of mind and assures their loyalty. This is the Pan African's value edge. CWG is ready to work for you.

CWG Supports EMC on Data Management conference

U P D A T E

46 DIGITAL EDGE VOL. I, NO.1 2013

B R A N C H R E P O R T

CWG Ghana Attains Oracle Platinum Partnership level

CWG Ghana Attains Oracle Platinum Partnership level


Enabling businesses and driven by innovative people and process, has consistently managed her Quality Management System (QMS) in compliance with the requirements of ISO 9001:2008 S t a n d a r d t h r o u g h a c o n t i n u a l improvement process. In her words, “No doubt, Computer Warehouse Group has successfully accomplished her Quality Policy by incorporating measurable objectives that have helped us to achieve the quality policy: Computer Warehouse Group shall deliver ICT Solutions that will add value to our customer's operation, meet and exceed our customer's expectation and we shall deliver them right first time and all the time”.

According to Patricia, Quality to us means “The ability to meet or exceed customer expectations while maintaining a cost competitive market position” therefore we at Computer Warehouse Group have adopted the Three Dimensional (3-D) Quality System, which are: Meeting Specifications, Expectations and Moving beyond what is specified or expected to excite and delight the customer.” She further explained that this quality system is replicated in every country where CWG operates physically or remotely.

The Acting Country Manager, Olufemi Adeitan, on receiving this certificate expressed his gratitude and reaffirmed the company's commitment to enabling businesses in Ghana and contributing their WG Ghana Limited, a member of the Communications Technology (ICT) products

quota in terms of development of the local Pan African ICT Company-Computer and services including infrastructure, understanding and application of ICT.Warehouse Group has been communication solutions, software C

accredited by Ghana Standards Authority solutions and Training (NACE CODE: 72) Computer Warehouse Group (CWG) is Management System Certification Scheme which is required to achieve and maintain a comprised of three (3) divisions, each with (GSA-MSCS). high degree of customer satisfaction. Thus, expertise in one of the 3 ICT disciplines CWG Ghana has passed through the rigorous (hardware, software and communications), The achievement of this certificate policy and requirements of GSA-MSCS and plus an ICT training and certification centre. demonstrates that the quality management has been certified to continue to enable We currently have virtual operations in system of CWG Ghana has been approved by businesses in the region.seventeen (17) African countries, with Ghana Standards Authority Management physical presence in Nigeria, Ghana, Uganda System Certification Scheme to the ISO Mrs Patricia Kevwe Odubote, Head- Quality and Cameroon. The business model of CWG 9001:2008 Quality Management System Assurance & Metrics, Computer Warehouse is hinged on partnering with the best-in-Standard. Group (CWG) who spearheaded the GSA-class global companies, for their best MSCS audit for CWG Ghana team explained products and services and delivering them According to the Approval Committee of that CWG with a vision to be the number 1 IT to our customers in the best manner, using GSA-MSCS, the quality management system Utility enabler in Africa by 2015 and the best people.is applicable to provision of Information and deploying world class ICT Solutions;

T E S T I M O N I A L S

Dominic Julian: ability to deliver on my targets, which has in turn In October 2010, I contributed to the growth of the company. e n r o l l e d i n t o I don't think I would be the rounded professional I C o m p u t e r am today without the CWG Academy experience. Warehouse The Academy developed me from a green horn Group's Training and gave me the opportunity to harness my

potential in

Academy. The main WG Academy was established in 2011 to driving force behind my provide qualitative training opportunities enrolment was the Cfor fresh graduates to enhance their opportunity to learn technological skill and prepare them for fulfilling f ro m a L e a d e r i n IT careers. The Academy embeds the core N i g e r i a ' s I C T specialisation of CWG's three divisions: CWL Industry—Mr. Austin Systems (hardware and Infrastructure), DCC O k e r e . T r a i n i n g Networks (Communications and Networking) p r o v i d e d b y t h e and ExpertEdge Software (Software).teachers at the academy exposed me to ICT's the ICT Industry.broader perspective. We learnt the rudiments The academy offers in-depth class room training, and the advanced knowledge of Hardware Hands-on laboratory experience, real world Ezekiel Oyerinde:(Laptops, Desktops, Servers, and Storage), End-project attachment and more in the three CWL Academy was a career starter for me. I am a User Support (Troubleshooting, Break and Fix), information technology disciplines as follows; graduate of Biochemistry but ventured into IT Case scenarios and Practical problem solving of hardware Infrastructure, Software and after school. Though I had gone to a couple of customer's queries, Sales Overview, ATM communications. This objective has been realistic Computer schools, CWL Academy was the opener Administration/Hardware, amongst other through CWG's three divisions which specialises for me into the world of endless possibilities in IT. I courses.in the three disciplines of ICT; CWL Systems, DCC among the second set of the academy and we

Networks and ExpertEdge Software where CWG were introduced into the core of IT infrastructure The Training Coordinator did a great job staff, who have over the years acquired IT and managed services by seasoned faculty and IT organising the academy training. The fluidity Certifications from renowned IT professional professionals in the employ of CWG. After exhibited by the technical team as they delivered Bodies and organizations, are the lecturers. The graduating from CWG Academy, I was fortunate well-thought-out interactive lectures and conducive environment, equipment, and to get the opportunity to work with MTN Nigeria, instructive practical training could only have practical work ensure these students are well a client of CWG Group, as a Data Centre Operator. come from excellent planning an attention to grounded Among those shortlisted for the interview, the detail formulated by a seasoned team. CWL Academy products were adjudged the best

Graduates of CWG Academy are contributing and the most preferred. Working with MTN My getting a job offer from the CWG Group at the their quota to the growth of Nigeria's IT sector. provided an opportunity to learn in the real world end of my training was as a result of my Every year, Academy graduates secure job in of IT and put to work all that I learnt in the performance at the Academy, and goof fortune. multinational companies while CWG absorbs academy. The knowledge gained at the training is some into the group. functional, it has helped me understand the Today, I am a Storage Systems Specialist with IBM various ICT solutions and the business needs of The CWG Academy experience, its inherent West Africa covering IBM Strategic Outsourcing customers—a big plus in my day to day work as a career boasting potential and the opportunity for Delivery in Airtel across Africa. I consider myself member of the sales unit in CWG. development it provides can best be described by blessed to have a solid foundation provided

those who have, as they say, “been there and through this laudable initiative called CWL Aside from the IT related knowledge I garnered at done that”. Ergo, let's follow CWG Academy Academy. I am grateful to CWG management and the training school, my self-confidence also alumni Dominic Julian and Ezekiel Oyerinde as the Coordinator of the program, Mr Emmanuel improved, thereby granting me the tenacity they take us through their CWG Academy journey. Effiong, for providing this platform for growth. required of my job role as a Sales man and the Keep the good job up.

CWG Academy Testimonials CWG Academy Testimonials


Wincor Nixdorf showcases its Mobile Money platform on the new range of CINEO machines

s Nigeria prepares to become a cash-lite economy, and with a pilot scheme already on in Lagos, Wincor Nixdorf has demonstrated its A

preparedness for the scheme by showcasing its cash management solutions powered by the new CINEO range of cash recycling and dispensing ATM machines. The all-encompassing solution also doubles as a self-service agency platform for the new mobile money operations in Nigeria.

Wincor Nixdorf in collaboration with its main Nigerian partner, Computer Warehouse Group (CWG) made presentations on a wide range of new ATM cash dispensing and cash recycling technology with a focus

to Wincor Nixdorf's Vice president Banking Division – on its new intelligent cassettes innovation at the Cash Mr Uwe Krause, the CINEO indoor machine is available Management Solutions| CINEO Technology and as frontload or rear-load model, and it has a solution Mobile Money Solutions workshop recently held in that allows bulk deposit/withdrawal functionality for Lagos.up to 200 notes. It has foreign object detection in the

The new range of ATMs which are called the CINEO input/output tray and processing time is a maximum of

range will create a total different outlook in the way 10 seconds for deposits/withdrawals.

cash management operates in the country. According

C A S H P O L I C Y

Mr Krause also mentioned that the downtimes with higher ATM banknote scanner for the new availability, higher transaction CINEO ATMs and cash recyclers volume, higher revenues and uses banknote validation to higher customer satisfaction and recognise and verify banknotes of loyalty. d i f f e r e n t c u r r e n c i e s , S a l m e n H e r m a n n ( P ro d u c t denominations and emissions such Specialist) discussed on the a s e x t e n d e d b a n k n o t e integration of the Mobile Money classification with trace function. platform on the new range of According to Wincor Nixdorf, up to CINEO machines. According to him, a maximum of 120 different Wincor Nixdorf provides a mobile denominations can be processed money solution that allows and it has an intermediate storage consumers without bank accounts fa c i l i t y a n d o f fe rs va r i o u s to deposit cash, withdraw cash and application options as well as a manage their mobile money storage system. It comes with 8.4” account directly at ATMs. LCD touch display for management The solution is targeted to mobile of remote cash points and system money operators, which could be used as a standalone ECB-certified banks, mobile network operators banknote validation system. or payment service providers.Addressing the cash management For Wincor Nixdorf the integration issues with the cash recycling of ATMs and mobile money t e c h n o l o g y, M r T h o r s t e n services is a central step to link the Weidemann – Head of Product world of cash to the eco-system of Marketing Cash Systems explained mobile financial services and that the integration of the CINEO therefore allow consumers more technology platform means that convenience and accessibility to cash takings can be validated im- cash. The mobile money operator mediately and stored in audit- extends his sales and payment proof, closed systems called network to save on commission intelligent cassettes. These devices and sales cost, participate at thus enable rapid, efficient growth markets such as mobile consolidation of cash takings remittance and provides enhanced without labour-intensive processes service to his customers in using such as counting cash by the secure self-service-technology. double-checking principle. In Furthermore the targeted use of addition, the cash that is deposited assisted self-service-technology for in the system can be made available converting cash into mobile money for the banks outdoor or indoor on the agent level enhances CINEO ATM or a retail store's CINEO security and predictability in the ATM within the bank's network. cash handling process and helps Mr Thorsten Weidemann also decreasing cost and increasing cash ex p l a i n e d t h a t t h e C I N EO availability. technology solves several security Salmen further explained that the issues with the cash dispenser Mobile Money Operator solutions model. He stated that the machine can be integrated with existing has cassettes that can be back-ends and integrates into configured at different expansion proven mobile wallet solutions in levels, from a basic version to a the market.high-end model with options such

CWG has placed an order for 600 as fi l l- level indicator, cover Wincor Nixdorf's CINEO range for monitoring, and cash management sales and distribution to Nigerian memory, among others. A memory banks. Presently, CINEO range of chip in the cassette provides ATMs pioneering banks l ike information about both the level of Ecobank and others have placed cash inside, where and when the orders through CWG already. This cassette was used or opened.revolution will be one of the

Some of its benefits according to success stories for the new CBN Wincor Nixdorf include; fewer drive in the country.

C A S H C A S H P O L I C Y

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CWG, Head, Human Resources &Admin, Mrs. Olapeju Ayo-Fisher receiving the CSR Award from Mrs B. Folami, representative of Lagos State first lady, Mrs Abimbola Fashola

Another CSR Triumph for CWG

omputer Warehouse Group (CWG) Harcourt, CWG has extended its support to Ctru Concepts launched The CSR Awards in Ltd emerged winner of the other Universities in Africa where she has order to recognise companies that have CCorporate Social Responsibilities physical presence. In 2011, CWG made her made a difference to the communities in

(CSR) Nigeria award for 'The Company with first CSR mark in Uganda where the best which they are active through their CSR the Most Outstanding Achievements in graduating student in Computer Science programmes. Hence, the body honours Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in department in Makarere University was them for their outstanding, innovative and 2012', bringing recognition to the rewarded with a brand new laptop and world-class products, services, projects and Information and Communication given automatic employment as part of the programs in different categories. Technology sector. CSR policy of CWG.

Receiving the award on behalf of CWG, Earlier, CWG had been recognised by IT The choice for Education by CWG as the Head, Human Resources &Admin, Mrs. Edge Intelligence Unit as Africa's fastest core aspect of its social responsibility Olapeju Ayo-Fisher said: 'It is said that no growing ICT Company for its far-reaching strategy is steeped in the company's belief nation can survive without one form of influence and market place importance that the best way to create a support or the other to the citizens from within the West African sub-region. technologically driven society is through the corporate organizations or the government.

support and reward for technological Every organization owes the society social Beyond adding value to information expertise in Higher institutions across sustainable responsibility and CWG is set to technology in Africa, CWG has shown locations where the company Operates in encourage, appreciate, and re-ignite the noteworthy commitments in promoting and Africa. passion on giving back to the society.'encouraging academic excellence. Apart Mrs B. Folami, representative of Lagos State from supporting IT education at the Speaking at the award ceremony, Head of first lady, Mrs Abimbola Fashola, confirmed University of Lagos as well as an active plan Media and Corporate Communications, that CWG has undeniably been exceptional to support institutions in Abuja and Port Olatunji Babafemi, CSR Nigeria Awards, said in her CSR initiative.


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Austin Okere to Bring “Lean Launch Pad” to Nigeriamericans are currently enjoying some of develop wining products that customers will buy. larger and established firms to satisfy the the world's most effective experiential increasing demand of growing markets and to Aentrepreneurship education through the Thus far, seasoned entrepreneurs such as Steve increase their relative role in the economy.

Lean Launch Pad concept, which is powered by Blank are teaching NEXT in Silicon Valley, Andy Sack collaborations with Startup Weekend, Udacity, (TechStars Seattle founder) in Seattle, Alex Farcet On his involvement in the Block Week Course at TechStars and Startup America. (founder of Startupbootcamp) in multiple Columbia Business School Okere said, “I believe

European cities, Eric Koester (founder of Zaarly) in that it is better to have a thousand millionaires than Lean Launch Pad combines content from the Washington, DC with countless others joining. a ten billionaires. It is better still to have a million world's leading expert in customer development Austin Okere, who taught at Steve Blank's Lean people with access to a hundred thousand dollars, if with local mentors and leaders in an intensive Launch Pad class at Columbia University, is looking they can be taught how to nurture and grow it flipped-classroom style course. This way, the to adopt the novel technique for Nigeria. through entrepreneurial endeavor; and I intend to movement has been able to create a unique, do something about it, so when I was invited, I did effective experience for teams of entrepreneurs The Eugene Lang Entrepreneurial Center at CBS, not hesitate in accepting, with a view to bringing that are serious about growing a customer-driven where Okere has been a guest lecturer since 2009, the concept to Africa”.startup. conveyed in their invitation their belief that his

experience and contribution to entrepreneurial Okere whose entrepreneurial advocacy has taken The program is already being offered in 15 cities ship in emerging markets will provide unparalleled him on similar teaching expeditions across Africa; around the world, with another 25 programs contribution to the class of aspiring entrepreneurs. through Nigeria, Kenya and Tanzania also launching in February. The goal is to expand the It is this experience that Okere will bring to bear on remarked: program to more than 100 cities in 2013. the Lean Launch Pad concept in Nigeria. “I like to put the story of the Computer Warehouse

Group out there because such success stories The Lean Launch Pad course provides real world, The Computer Warehouse Group, whose case contribute immensely to the attraction of capital to hands-on learning on what it is like to actually start study is a regular feature at Columbia Business the reg ion , wh ich combined wi th the a high-tech company. It is a practical class where School and the Massachusetts Institute of entrepreneurial acumen and the youthful the goal is to create an entrepreneurial experience Technology, Boston, as well as many other population unleashes waves of economic boom, with all of the pressures and demands of the real institutions in Africa, including the prestigious which in turn lifts the pile at bottom of the pyramid world in an early stage start up. Lagos Business School, chronicles the trials, into the more desirable networked economy of the

challenges and triumph of entrepreneurship in the emerging global village. Besides, it provides the The syllabus for the course is drawn majorly from challenging environment that characterizes Sub perfect opportunity to be a brand ambassador for the bestselling book, The Startup Owner's Manual, Saharan Africa. Africa”.co-authored by serial entrepreneurs Steve Blank and Bob Dorf, and the revolutionary new book, There is an increasing global focus and emphasis on Okere has made quite a name for himself over the Business Model Generation co-authored by entrepreneurship as the most viable vehicle for job past 20 years, growing the Computer Warehouse Alexander Osterwalder and Yves Pigneur. creation. According to the Global Entrepreneurship Group into a $130 million revenue company, with These two books provide insights into powerful, Monitor (GEM) 2011 report, there is an upsurge in 650 staff spread across Nigeria, Ghana, Uganda and simple, tested tools for understanding, designing, entrepreneurship around the world, with a total Cameroon. In 2012 he was named ICT Man of the reworking, and implementing business models, number of about 400 million spread across 54 Decade by ICT Watch Africa Digital Network, and through a business model canvas, that defines countries. The GEM in its 2006 report revealed that CWG was named Conglomerate of the Year. The unique value propositions for specific customer there was a systematic relationship between a organizers cited CWG's immense contributions segments, and the relationships and channels to country's level of economic development and its toward the growth and development of deliver these to the customer to maximize revenue. level of entrepreneurial activity. It noted that Information and Communications Technology It also helps the entrepreneur identify key countries with similar per capita GDP tend to (ICT), youth empowerment through ICT education, resources, partners and key activities to be exhibit similar levels of entrepreneurial activity. and nation building. performed and at what cost.The course provides a comprehensive step-by-step At low levels of per capita GDP, industrial structure Okere, who shall be participating at the Economist guide to getting startups right. It walks is characterized by the prevalence of many very Group's Nigerian Summit in March, 2013 intends to entrepreneurs through the customer development small enterprises. As per capita income increases, take his entrepreneurial advocacy very strongly to process that gets them out of the building to industrialization and economies of scale allow the Forum to attract the much needed focus.

Steve Blank, Austin Okere and Bob Dorf

CWG Rewards Educational Excellence in Uganda's Makerere University

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he Makerere University School students to get essential hands-on of Computing and Informatics skills needed in the job market. He Tbest Computer Science added that in the future, the company

student for the year 2009. Mr. David hopes to increase the number of Semakula, a final year Computer s t u d e nt s rewa rd e d fo r go o d Science student in the university, performance.topped his class of over 200 students In addition, CWG also rewarded the to win Computer Warehouse Group's best Computer Science lecturers as award. chosen by the students. These

included Mr. Joseph Semwogerere, Mr. Semkalula got a Cumulative Mr. Moses Ntanda, Mr. Ronald Grade Point Average (GPA) of 4.81, Azairwe and Mrs. Doreen Tuheirwe-which according to the lecturers, was Mukasa.an 'inspiring grade' to win the second edition of the CWG Best Student Dr. John Ngubiri, the Deputy Principal Award. The award comes with a Dell of the school, said the award was Laptop and a one-year internship meant to inspire students to work with the company. The handover harder and link them with took place at the College of employment before they could Computing and Information Sciences graduate.at the Makerere University.

The Deputy Principal of Makerere The General Manager of CWG Uganda University, Dr. John Ngubiri thanked Mr. Michael Manzi, who was on hand CWG for investing part of their to present the award, pledged the profits in education and for company's commitment to continue partnering with the College to train rewarding excellence in education and their students through internship.offering training opportunities for

From left Deputy Principal Dr. John Ngubiri, Ronald Azairwe, Joseph Ssemwogerere, CWG general manager Mr. Michael

Manzi, David Semakula, Doreen Tuheirwe, and Moses Ntanda posing for a photo after receiving their awards.

David Semakula


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CWG Boosts Education in UNILAGomputer Warehouse Group university, led the by the Acting Vice investments in personal and community reiterated her commitment Chancellor, Prof. Rahman Ade-Bello. development. towards the growth and Olapeju Ayo-Fisher, lead the CWG C

development of Information and delegation to the award presentation CWG is at the moment discussing with Communications Technology (ICT) in the ceremony remarked that the organisation the university authority on the creation of

Information Technology Park on campus to enhance academic research and learning.

CWG had in the past two decades, continually supported Information Technology (IT) education in the country. Consistent with her determination to support education in Nigeria and Africa, CWG won the best Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) ICT Company in 2011.

Apart from supporting IT education at the University of Lagos, CWG has extended this support to other Universities in Africa where she has physical presence. In 2011 CWG made her first CSR mark in Uganda where the best graduating student in Computer Science department in Makarere University was rewarded with a brand new laptop and given automatic

country when it rewarded academic excellence in the University Of Lagos recently.

During the official presentation of computer notebooks to the best graduating students of the computer science department of the University of Lagos for 2009/2010 and 2010/2011 academic sessions, Head, Human Relations and Admin, Mrs. Olapeju Ayo-Fisher and Public Relations Executive, Mrs. Toyin Aderibigbe, both of Computer Warehouse Group, reaffirmed CWG's commitment to education. The presentation was done at the Vice Chancellor Conference Centre, Senate building, University of Lagos.

Abdulwahab Owoyemi Ibrahim who graduated as the overall best student of the computer science department for 2009/2010 session, and Okoilu Ruth who was the best graduating student of the computer science department for 2010/2011 academic session, were present to receive their awards. Also in

remained committed to promoting and employment to join the service of the attendance at the award presentation,

encouraging academic excellence and company which is the CSR policy of CWG. were the management staff of the

would continually make significant

C O R P O R A T EC O R P O R A T E H E A L T H

things you can handle.2. Avoid people who stress you out: limit the amount of time you spent with that person or end the relationship entirely.3. Take control of your environment.4. Avoid hot-button topics.5. Analyze your schedule, responsibilities and daily tasks.

1. Communicate your concern in an open and respectful way.2. Be willing to compromise (finding the middle ground).3. Deal with problems head on, doing your best to anticipate and prevent them.4. Manage your time better. Develop a system that work for you and not against you.

tress is part of our normal life. It is a feeling of source of stress. It is caused by things such as Job being overloaded, tense, troubled, nervous, Dissatisfaction, an Exhausting Workload, vexed and worried. It can be either short-term Insufficient Pay, Office Politics, and Conflicts with 1. Many things in life are beyond our control—S

(from demands and pressures of recent past or your Boss or Co-workers. particularly the behavior of other people.anticipated demands and pressures of the near Social situation can also cause 2. When facing major challenges, try to look at future) or long term (manifests as unending feelings stress. For example, Poverty, Financial Pressures, them as opportunities for personal growth.of despair, helplessness, hopelessness). Stress is Racial and Sexual Discrimination or Harassment, 3. Share your feelings.good in a way because it can motivate, energise, Unemployment, Isolation, and a lack of social 4.Let-go of angers, offences, hatreds andinspire and help us become more productive. support all take a toll on daily quality of life. resentments. Free yourself from negative energyHowever, if it is too much it can be very harmful and by forgiving and moving on.may have negative effect on our health, physical, EFFECTSmental and social well-being. When we are over-stressed or allow it to control our lives, hence our I. Memory problems 1. Try to view stressful situations from a moreperception and reaction is of great essence. It II. Indecisiveness positive perspective.determines the resultant effects on us. III. Inability to concentrate 2. Take standpoint of the stressful situation.

IV. Trouble thinking clearly 3.Set reasonable, measurable standards forIt is noteworthy that increasing our knowledge V. Poor judgment yourself and others, and learn to be okay withabout stress (Stress management) helps us to VI. Seeing only the negative “good enough.”become more resilient, tough, and strong and VII. Anxious or racing thoughts 4. Focus on the positive.develop skills to enhance the body's adjustment to VIII. Constant worrying pressure. IX. Loss of objectivity TIME MANAGEMENT TIPS TO REDUCE STRESS

X. Fearful anticipationI. Uncertainty or Worries All work and no play is a recipe for burn-out. Try to II. Self-criticism I. Headaches or backaches find a balance between work and family life, social III. Unrealistic expectations or beliefs II. Muscle tension and stiffness activities and solitary pursuits, daily responsibilities IV. Low Self-esteem III. Diarrhea or constipation and downtime.V. Excessive or Unexpressed anger IV. Nausea, dizziness VI. Lack of assertiveness V. Insomnia Avoid scheduling things back-to-back or trying to fit VII. Perfectionism VI. Chest pain, rapid heartbeat too much into one day. All too often, we VIII. Pessimistic attitude VII. Weight gain or loss underestimate how long things will take and put

VIII. Skin breakouts (hives, eczema) ourselves under undue pressure.It starts with identifying the sources of stress IX. Loss of sex drive (STRESSORS) in your life. Stressors are external X. Frequent colds Make a list of tasks you have to do, and tackle them events that cause stress. It also looks closely at your in order of significance. Do the high-priority items HABITS, ATTITUDE, and EXCUSES. I. Eating more or less first. If you have something particularly unpleasant

II. Sleeping too much or too little to do, get it over with early. The rest of your day will Daily causes of stress include: III. Isolating yourself from others be more pleasant as a result.

The physical IV. P r o c r a s t i n a t i o n , n e g l e c t i n g surrounding can set-off stress response. It includes responsibilities If a large project seems overwhelming, make a step-an unsafe neighborhood, Pollution, Noise, Crime- V. Using alcohol, cigarettes, or drugs to by-step plan. Focus on one manageable step at a r idden areas or War-torn regions, and relax time, rather than taking on everything at once.Uncomfortable living conditions. VI. Nervous habits (e.g. nail biting, pacing)

Problems VII. Teeth grinding or jaw clenching You don't have to do it all yourself, whether at with Friends, Romantic Partners, and Family VIII. Over-doing activities (e.g. exercising, home, or on the job. If other people can take care of Members are common daily Stressors. Marital shopping) the task, why not let them? Let go of the desire to Disagreements, Dysfunctional Relationships, IX. Over-reacting to unexpected problems control or oversee every little step. You'll be letting Rebellious Teens, or Caring for a chronically-ill X. Picking fights with others go of unnecessary stress in the process.family member or a Child with special needs can all

WORD ON THE MARBLE: “STRESSED” is send stress levels skyrocketing.“DESSERTS” spelled backwardsWork can be an ever-present 1. Know your limit and stick to them: take only the

Stress management strategy #2: ALTER THE SITUATION

Stress management strategy #3: ACCEPT THE THINGS YOU CANNOT CHANGE

SOCIAL STRESSORS:

Stress management strategy #4: ADAPT TO THE COGNITIVE SYMPTOMS STRESSOR

Internal causes of stress include: Create a balanced schedulePHYSICAL SYMPTOMS

Don't over-commit yourself

What is Stress Management?Prioritize tasks

BEHAVIORAL SYMPTOMS

ENVIRONMENTAL STRESSORS: Break projects into small steps

Delegate responsibilityFAMILY AND RELATIONSHIP STRESSORS:

Stress management strategy #1: AVOIDUNNECESSARY STRESS

WORK STRESSORS:

STRESSMANAGEMENTBy Kolade Oluwo


ome health reports and articles are scary. of the percentage of bankers that are living with taxonomy that includes man. Though Perhaps they are meant to be scary, to get hypertension and other diseases that make automobile engines operate by a set of rules the message across, or the messages they them susceptible to heart attacks may avail us of that are not proportional to what obtains in the S

carry are naturally scary. One report that fits this the needed statistics to draw up a Laurance- human heart, we can safely say the heart bill is Jeremy Laurance's “when work can be bad esque headline for the Nigerian corporate occupies that same prime position in the human f o r y o u r h e a l t h ” , p u b l i s h e d b y sector, especially in the light of recent reports of body: the engine from which power is derived.independent.co.uk on 14 Sept. 2012. sudden deaths in the sector. Since no survey of

the kind that Mr. Laurence alluded to exists in The heart, in layman's terms, is a muscular Mr. Laurance reported the finding of a Whitehall Nigeria (that we know of), let us look at the heart pump that supplies blood to all parts of the study involving tens of thousands of civil and its place in the human body with the aim of body. Blood carries oxygen and other nutrients servants in seven European countries, which encouraging bankers to treat it better. that the body needs. If the heart stops pumping, held that people with demanding jobs that leave the organs will be starved of essential nutrients them “little freedom to make decisions” are As essential as body parts are, the engine of a car and will most likely expire.more susceptible to heart attack. is the heart of the matter, the one without which s, is a muscular pump that supplies blood to all

the car cannot move from its resting place—on parts of the body. Blood carries oxygen and Banking professionals fall into the category of its own power that is. As the engine is to the car other nutrients that the body needs. If the heart people with demanding jobs. Perhaps a survey so is the heart to the kingdom animalia, a stops pumping, the organs will be starved of

essential nutrients and will most likely expire. known as coronary heart disease (CHD) or office during break time is a good way to simply heart disease, this condition is the exercise.

If you want to really connect with your heart, run number one killer of both women and men in up a flight of stairs or do something strenuous, America. Risk factors include having diabetes, 3. Eat a heart-healthy dietthe quickened beat and thump inside your chest smoking, having hypertension, and being Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and as it battles to resupply your body, should tell physically inactive. low-fat dairy products, which can help protect you something. Its presence is felt as that sharp your heart. Beans, other low-fat sources of throbbing pervades the left side of the chest Other heart diseases affect the heart chambers, protein and certain types of fish also can reduce when we feel anxiety, fear or loss. This is the heart muscle itself, the heart valves, your risk of heart disease.perhaps why many religions saw the heart as the electrical system and the heart lining. Risk centre of man, why you are said to “feel” with factors unrelated to lifestyle include family Limiting certain fats you eat also is important. Of your heart. We know now, that the heart throbs history, sex and age. the types of fat—saturated, polyunsaturated, in reaction to stimulus from the brain and that monounsaturated and trans fat—saturated fat though the heart is not where thought is For those not born with heart disease, chances and trans fat increase the risk of coronary artery processed, it does react to it—another reason of reducing its incidence later in life can be disease by raising blood cholesterol levels.hypertensive people are told to avoid anxiety. bettered using by the following five tips gleaned

from mayoclinic.com. Major sources of saturated fat include:Though we don't see it and may not have cause « Red meatto think about its welfare, not in the way we 1. Don't smoke or use tobacco « Dairy productsthink of those parts of the body that are Smoking or using tobacco is one of the most « Coconut and palm oilsexposed—the eyes, the skin, etc—but the heart significant risk factors for developing heart is of great import as it is connected to everything disease. Chemicals in tobacco can damage your Sources of trans fat include:else and its status may mean the difference heart and blood vessels, leading to narrowing of « Deep-fried fast foodsbetween life and death. the arteries (atherosclerosis). Atherosclerosis « Bakery products

can ultimately lead to a heart attack. When it « Packaged snack foodsAs is true to the automobile engine—or any comes to heart disease prevention, no amount « Margarinesmoving, working machine for that matter—the of smoking is safe. Smokeless tobacco and low- « Crackersheart does suffer from wear and tear that affects tar and low-nicotine cigarettes also are risky, as output. Aside work related damages, the heart, is exposure to second-hand smoke. Following a heart-healthy diet alsolike other parts of the body may breakdown as a means drinking alcohol only inresult of illness. In addition, the nicotine in cigarette smoke moderation—no more than twoSome people are naturally more susceptible to makes your heart work harder by narrowing drinks a day for men, and one aheart disease or are born with it—something your blood vessels and increasing your heart day for women. At that moderatescience has pinned down to genes, known as rate and blood pressure. Carbon monoxide in level, alcohol can have acongenital heart disease —but lifestyle also cigarette smoke replaces some of the oxygen in protective effect on your heart.plays a very large role. In this age of city living, your blood. This increases your blood pressure More than that becomes a healthwith people depending more and more on by forcing your heart to work harder to supply hazard. Some good news there.machines for mobility and ease of work, lifestyle enough oxygen. is becoming a major cause of heart disease and 4. Maintain a healthy weightthe resultant death or disability. The good news, though, is that when you quit As you put on weight in adulthood, your weight

smoking, your risk of heart disease drops gain is mostly fat rather than muscle. This excess Most city white-collar workers, who spend dramatically within just one year. And no matter weight can lead to conditions that increase your several hours at a stretch sitting behind a desk in how long or how much you smoked, you'll start chances of heart disease — high blood pressure, an air-conditioned environment, can be reaping rewards as soon as you quit. high cholesterol and diabetes.classified among the heart disease high-risk population. 2. Exercise for 30 minutes on most days of the Even a small weight loss can be beneficial.

week Reducing your weight by just 10 percent can With a very demanding public sector centred Getting some regular, daily exercise can reduce decrease your blood pressure, lower your blood job that grants little or no time for conventional your risk of fatal heart disease. And when you cholesterol level and reduce your risk of exercise, how can the banker decrease the combine physical activity with other lifestyle diabetes.chance of getting heart disease? But before we measures, such as maintaining a healthy weight, look at the different ways of maintaining a the payoff is even greater. 5. Get regular health screeningshealthy heart, let us look at some types of heart High blood pressure and high cholesterol can disease. Physical activity helps you control your weight damage your heart and blood vessels. But

and can reduce your chances of developing without testing for them, you probably won't www.heart.emedtv.com defined heart diseases other conditions that may put a strain on your know whether you have these conditions. as diseases that affect the heart and its heart, such as high blood pressure, high Regular screening for blood pressure, associated blood vessels. The site says that cholesterol and diabetes. It also reduces stress, cholesterol levels and diabetes can tell you what there are more than 50 different types, the most which may be a factor in heart disease. your numbers are and whether you need to take common being coronary artery disease: defined Try getting at least 30 to 60 minutes of action.as a condition in which the arteries that take moderately intense physical activity most days blood to the heart harden and become narrow. of the week. It does pay to read scary health reports if you ask This narrowing of the arteries (known as me, because they can prepare you for the atherosclerosis) cuts off blood flow to the heart For the busy white-collar worker, taking the inevitable or teach you to be more careful.muscle, and can cause a heart attack. Also stairs instead of the lift, and walking around the

The Human Heart:By Chiagozie Fred Nwonwu

C O R P O R A T E H E A L T HH E A L T H

Keeping That Engine Primed

C O R P O R A T EC O R P O R A T E H E A L T H


HE MD and entire Staff members the IT Industry the great pain of his standards for the profession. Indeed he of Computer Warehouse Group departure. May the good Lord grant his was a doyen of the IT industry, whose TLimited condole with the gentle soul eternal rest” the CWG life was absolutely a beautiful memory.

University of Lagos and the IT Industry helmsman said. Prof. Sofoluwe was the Austin Kwesi Okere, Simon Agi, Olapeju on the demise of Professor Adetokunbo first Computer Scientist to be appointed Ayo-Fisher, Adedayo Abegunde, Tinu Babatunde Sofoluwe FNCS, who until his Vice Chancellor of University of Lagos, Adeyemi, and many more too numerous death was the Vice Chancellor of and was a distinguished Fellow of the to be mentioned are proud to be University of Lagos. Austin Kwesi Okere, Nigeria Computer Society, who worked associated with the school as they all are Group Managing Director, CWG, assiduously towards the growth of IT in alma mater of the reputable institution. condoles with the reputable school the country. Clearly, the history of They say “Ours is just a simple prayer, being an alumnus of the school. He Computer Science as a discipline (and God bless and keep you in His care.”describes Sofoluwe as an apostle of profession) in Nigeria can never be human capacity building in the areas of complete without making reference to Earth has one gentle soul less, but ICT having pioneered standardization in Professor Adetokunbo B. Sofoluwe's Heaven indeed has one more angel. the Nigerian sector. “CWG shares with pioneering efforts in setting high Farewell Prof!

O B I T U A R Y

SOFOLUWE: COMPUTER WAREHOUSE GROUP LIMITED CONDOLES WITH UNILAG

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