I just got finished updating my copy of Adobe Reader to version 7.0.5 when I was prompted that there were new updates available. After Reader completed its installation I was told that my machine would need to be rebooted before the updates to my system would take effect. I thought that odd since Adobe Reader is just an application and not a system level service, but didn't think too much about it. However, I did click "Reboot Later" or something to that effect, so that I could finish what I was doing at the time. However, that was not to deter the Adobe Reader install, which proceeded to shut down my current Windows session as I frantically worked to close all of my work in progress.

In the end all was saved and this time I dodged a bullet. Things could have turned out a whole lot uglier however. Be careful. You've been warned.

I've been in the software business professionally since 1988. As a matter of fact it's the only real profession I've ever had. I cut my teeth at a company called Micrografx, Inc. and have gone on to work for many other startups over the years as well as larger organizations like Nortel Networks. Over these past 17 years I've learned many things about what it takes to run a software company. I've learned many lessons by observing others and I've learned many lessons from mistakes I've made on my own. My hope is to use this blog as a forum for passing on those lessons that I've learned.

At this time I own a software company Berkemeyer Concepts, LLC where we do both software consulting and produce retail software. Our premier retail brand is i-Know It. This is an educational product line designed to help users memorize various material while using their computer for other tasks. Our permier contracting engagement is with ClearSpace doing work on proprietary software for Trade Settlement, Inc. Using these current projects as well as 17 years of history in this business, I'll do my best to pass on some lessons I've learned and help you to avoid some of the mistakes I've made or seen others make.