T3 Motion, Inc. (NYSE AMEX:TTTM) a producer of clean/green technology, announced that T3 Motion has received an order from newly-appointed Nigerian distributor for 126 T3 Electric Stand-up Vehicles (ESV) and 126 Motiontrak GPS tracking systems. The vehicles are anticipated to be used for government customs and security initiatives.

With 155 million people, Nigeria has the world’s eighth most populous nation and has the third largest economy in Africa, following South Africa and Egypt. Nigeria is the eighth largest exporter of petroleum in the world, accounting for nearly 11% of United States oil supply.

“This quarter, our company has reached a milestone with over 500 vehicles on backlog, a record for T3 Motion. To fulfill this demand, we are expanding our manufacturing capabilities and are launching strong sales campaigns to leverage our success,” stated Ki Nam, T3 Motion CEO. “As the third largest player in Africa, Nigeria represents a milestone in our company’s expanding footprint, reinforcing our global deployment strategy and supporting our ongoing sales growth.”

The T3 ESV is an electric law enforcement patrol vehicle known for its command presence, quick response time and iconic look that is designed to decrease operating costs, reduce crime and increase patrol capabilities. More than 3,000 T3 Series vehicles have been deployed in over 30 countries worldwide.

ECR Software Corporation (ECRS) today announced plans to debut and demonstrate its Web 2.0 CATAPULT retail management platform at the upcoming Natural Products Expo East trade show and conference in Baltimore, Maryland. The first Web 2.0 CATAPULT applications to be unveiled include a new executive dashboard reporting system and an inventory, pricing, and promotion maintenance system.

This web-based, portable approach to enterprise management provides the power of ECRS’s award-winning CATAPULT retail automation solution to run on a Tablet device, such as Apple iPad or Motorola Zoom. The new CATAPULT applications will also run from within all major Internet browsers, such as Windows Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Apple Opera, and Google Chrome.

“Modern mobile devices and web technology have spread to encompass all vital areas of our lives,” said ECRS Vice President of Development, Mark Noble. “ECRS’s introduction of the Tablet-ready executive dashboard and maintenance application are only the beginning of our comprehensive Web 2.0 vision. This platform frees CATAPULT and allows our customers to work where, when, and how they choose.”

The first phase of the new platform, which is scheduled for release in December 2011, will deliver a powerful, fast, high-level executive dashboard with on-the-fly drill down capability. This CATAPULT functionality will be available to all current ECRS system users at no additional cost. ECRS’ intuitive executive dashboard displays a variety of vital metrics, as configured by the user, with extensive comparative capability. Whether the user wants to compare specific stores, departments, or items, business intelligence comes alive with visually appealing graphs and charts; providing access to a retailer’s most critical data in an easy-to-read format.

Maintenance controls will be available in subsequent versions set for release in the first and second quarters of 2012. With CATAPULT’s Web 2.0 maintenance platform, authorized users can log in and access integral back office functions, such as inventory, pricing, supplier data, and promotions via all major Tablet devices and/or Windows or Apple based personal computers.

Motorola Mobility Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: MMI) today announced the departure of William R. Hambrecht, 76, from the Company’s Board of Directors, effective immediately, after years of dedicated service. Following his departure, the Motorola Mobility Board of Directors will be comprised of nine members, eight of whom are independent.

“I want to thank Bill for his valuable service and guidance to Motorola and to Motorola Mobility,” said Sanjay Jha, chairman and chief executive officer, Motorola Mobility. “Bill played an instrumental role in the separation of Motorola into two independent publicly-traded companies, as well as in our recent milestone transaction with Google. On behalf of the entire Board of Directors, I wish Bill only the best.”

“It has been a privilege to serve on the Board of Directors of Motorola Mobility,” said William Hambrecht. “Motorola Mobility is an iconic company and I have truly enjoyed working closely with my fellow directors, Sanjay Jha and the entire senior leadership team. I am delighted with the transaction we entered into with Google, and I look forward to seeing the benefits and new opportunities this partnership creates.”

NRG Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NRG) has completed its acquisition of the 290-megawatt Agua Caliente solar project from First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR). The acquisition was contingent upon the financial closing of the project’s loan guarantee from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Loan Programs Office.

Agua Caliente is the world’s largest solar photovoltaic project currently under construction. The Yuma County, Arizona project has obtained all permits and approvals from both federal and state agencies, and is expected to create up to 400 construction jobs through its completion date in 2014. Financial terms of the sale of the project were not disclosed.

Electricity from Agua Caliente will be sold under a 25-year power purchase agreement with Pacific Gas and Electric Co., helping California to meet its ambitious renewable energy goals. At full capacity, the electricity generated by Agua Caliente is enough to serve more than 225,000 homes. The project is expected to offset approximately 5.5 million metric tons of CO2 over 25 years, the equivalent of taking over 40,000 cars off the road annually.

CA Technologies (NASDAQ: CA) today announced a definitive agreement to acquire privately-held Interactive TKO, Inc. (ITKO), a leading provider of service simulation solutions for developing applications in composite and cloud environments, for $330 million in an all-cash transaction.

Business demand for rapid time-to-market and lower operational costs is driving IT organizations to quickly adopt new approaches such as composite application architectures and cloud services. As the quest for quickly delivering high-quality business services continues, IT management – from automation and security to governance and service assurance – becomes the most critical factor for success.

CA Technologies acquisition of ITKO will add a new and critical dimension to modern IT management and extend it to encompass the entire service delivery lifecycle. In particular, the acquisition will help customers overcome the limitations of current organizational approaches, breaking down the silos across development, testing and operations.

“The addition of ITKO to CA Technologies will extend our ability to deliver a complete set of capabilities to help our customers and partners to increase their adoption and value from cloud-based applications,” said David Dobson, executive vice president, Customer Solutions Group, CA Technologies.

“ITKO’s technology allows customers to anticipate how their applications will perform in alternate environments, significantly reducing risk, and accelerating their time to value. Together, we believe we will offer the broadest continuum of IT management solutions—one that spans planning to production, emphasizes the service over the infrastructure, and accommodates the new heterogeneity that includes on-premise, cloud and hybrid application environments.”

On an unaudited basis, for the trailing 12-month period ending March 31, 2011, ITKO reported revenue of approximately $39 million, more than doubling the prior 12-month period. For this same period, ITKO was highly profitable and generated positive cash flow. Including transaction-related expenses, the transaction is expected to be slightly dilutive on a non-GAAP basis and dilutive on a GAAP basis to CA Technologies earnings per share in fiscal year 2012. The transaction also is expected to be accretive on a non-GAAP and dilutive on a GAAP basis to CA Technologies earnings per share in fiscal year 2013. The acquisition is expected to be completed within three months, pending regulatory approval.

ITKO’s approach and pioneering service simulation technology has disrupted the traditional application development market. It also has rendered conventional application lifecycle management (ALM) methods and technology obsolete for organizations developing complex composite applications, employing agile development, and leveraging cloud services and components. ITKO customers are able to accelerate application delivery cycle times, improve the quality of services, and save millions in lab infrastructure and testing costs. ITKO’s more than 100 percent bookings and revenue CAGR over four years is a testament to their ability to work with the world’s largest enterprises and systems integrators.

ITKO’s LISA solution enables organizations to “mock up” a service at enterprise speed and enterprise scale—even if the application is unfinished or unstable or the physical resource is unavailable. LISA, which is used by more than 125 enterprise customers, virtualizes an environment by simulating the behavior of external services without actually invoking them—e.g. how a checkout or fulfillment process should interact with a service, without actually authorizing a credit card or putting a box on a truck. “What-if” capabilities offer a whole new way to understand how an application might behave if components are changed—e.g. swapping an internal RDBMS for a cloud-based database or changing package shippers.

CA Technologies believes the combination of ITKO, with the company’s solutions for Service Assurance, Service Automation, Service Management and Turn-key Cloud, will create the most compelling offerings in the market that accommodate the complexity inherent in today’s applications and environments. For customers, the benefit is business services that can be built, tested and delivered in hours and days, not months and years.

“We are thrilled to join CA Technologies because it gives us a tremendous platform to take our growth to an entirely new level,” said Shridhar Mittal, president and CEO of ITKO. “Combining LISA with CA Technologies world-class IT management will give our customers a solution that is ready for where they’re going, not limiting them to where they’ve been.”

At the close of the transaction, Mittal will join CA Technologies as general manager of ITKO, a division of CA Technologies. It is anticipated that all of ITKO’s approximately 120 employees will join CA Technologies.

The acquisition is a continuation of CA Technologies strategy that balances investments to grow the company with returning cash to shareholders. So far in its 2012 fiscal year, the company has repurchased $150 million of its common stock.

McCann Worldgroup announced today the appointment of Marc Schwartz and Laura Simpson to the newly created positions of Global Director of Performance Analytics and Global IQ Director, respectively. Marc and Laura will form the global leadership team of a newly created Marketing Sciences practice that will embed marketing performance analytics and market intelligence into every solution for McCann Worldgroup. Both Schwartz and Simpson will be based in New York beginning in July.

“The days of demonstrating marketing effectiveness as an optional extra are over,” said Daryl Lee, Chief Integration Architect of McCann Worldgroup. “With Marc’s experience in connecting strategy with analytics and technology, we will have a 21st century Performance Analytics capability at the center of McCann Worldgroup that will be scaled across every client solution. Marc and Laura will work closely with our Integrated Strategy practice to link integrated marketing strategies to global intelligence and marketing performance systems and ensure effectiveness is embedded into everything we do. With the addition of a Marketing Sciences practice, the strategic toolbox of McCann Worldgroup now leads the industry.”

Schwartz was most recently Global Lead, Data and Analytics for SapientNitro, working across clients such as The Coca-Cola Company, Unilever, Johnson&Johnson, General Mills, and American Airlines, among others. In that role he was responsible for all data, analytics and measurement planning for all channels including digital, social media, direct response, and media. Prior to SapientNitro, Schwartz was EVP, Multichannel Consumer Engagement for DDB where he was responsible for interactive, new media, direct response, and online and offline analytics. Earlier in his career, Schwartz worked as Global Director of Data Strategy for Wunderman.

“McCann Worldgroup has gone through an incredible transformation over the past year, so it is exciting to be joining this amazing team at this critical time,” said Schwartz. “Their relentless commitment to strategic collaboration in pursuit of innovation, creativity and performance is what attracted me and what will ensure our success.”

Simpson has been a truth scout for 12 years and has travelled the world talking to a wide range of consumers about a variety of different topics and brands; including cognac drinkers in Paris, ice cream lovers in Manchester and business travelers in Shanghai. For the last 6 years Simpson has worked as head of trends and insight for McCann London. She launched the prestigious Moody Britain study which has charted the emotional highs and lows of British culture and has been covered extensively by the British press. She has presented the findings to deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg and discussed the findings on BBC Radio Four. She has worked across a number of clients, L’Oreal, Tragus, Premier Foods and B&Q. Prior to her time at McCann she worked at Synovate.

“I’m incredibly excited about my new role and my move to New York. I am truly a truth hunter and I aim to ensure that the truths we uncover globally through our proprietary research and global intelligence network will help drive solutions that are transformational of our clients’ brands, and businesses,” said Simpson.

The Marketing Sciences practice is the latest in a serious of strategic capabilities that are being built centrally in McCann Worldgroup to be accessed by all teams and clients around the world. “Stay tuned, there’s more to come,” said Lee.

AstraZeneca (NYSE: AZN) announced today the installation of a 7,300-panel solar energy project that produces energy equivalent to about 10 percent of the campus’ office building electricity use.

Panel Solar Energy System

The 1.7 megawatt system, which is the largest non-utility solar project in Delaware, will produce green electricity that is the equivalent of removing the greenhouse gas emissions of more than 300 cars from the road per year.

“Producing green electricity is a significant step toward reducing the impact we have on the environment globally,” said Rich Fante, President, AstraZeneca U.S. & CEO, North America. “AstraZeneca is committed to doing its part to create a cleaner, more energy-efficient Delaware.”

The project is expected to produce 2.1 million kilowatt hours of electricity per year, which is enough to power about 100 homes. It also will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 1,200 metric tons per year.

“By choosing to use renewable and sustainable energy sources, AstraZeneca is investing in its energy future. It’s great they made that investment with Motech, putting a Delaware employer to work to help power the buildings where hundreds of Delawareans are working,” Governor Jack Markell said. “By moving to renewable and sustainable energy sources, AstraZeneca is investing in its future and the future of our state. This project makes economic and environmental sense.”

“We need to make things in America again, and emerging opportunities in green energy are critical to putting Americans back to work while protecting the environment,” U.S. Rep. John Carney of Delaware said. “Delaware is positioned to be a national leader in these efforts because of partnership and coordination among private businesses and government. AstraZeneca has set a strong example of how to incorporate clean, environmentally-friendly policies into their business practices, and I’m confident they will continue to pursue additional green energy options for many years to come.”

The project is the third and by far largest solar project on the Wilmington campus, with the first two installed in 2004 and 2008.

Social Media Security Boosts IT Career Opportunities – Information Technology Degrees Pave the Way to Hot IT Jobs

A new study found social networking growth in the U.S. is about to peak. But even if true, the number of people currently using it in its various forms – 600 million on Facebook, 190 million on Twitter, and 100 million on LinkedIn – is astonishing.

The popularity has created a business problem that anyone with an information systems degree would expect: security.

Not only are people using social networks at home, but at work. That creates large vulnerabilities. In fact, a recent survey showed that 42 percent of network administrators are moderately-to-extremely concerned about employees using social networks in the office because of the accompanying security threats.
The good news? Someone just dropped a big career present on the doorsteps of those with information technology degrees.

As it is, cybersecurity is one of the hottest IT jobs of the future. However, cybersecurity is a broad field, and some of the specialties – mobile device and software security, for example – are growing needs that are often out of the experience of existing experts. Social network security will be another important area.

The big concerns about social network security include virus downloads, information leaks and possible intrusion.

“Social networks were initially strictly for entertainment purposes, so their use by employees at work constituted a waste of company time, as well as a vulnerability,” says Alex Lazo, IT professor at American Sentinel University.

Now organizations are starting to realize how powerful social networks truly are. “As a result, companies are loosening the reigns on their employees and this poses an even greater risk for organization because it is more troublesome to administer limited access than it is to cut off access altogether,” adds Lazo.

Some of the most important forms of security for social media are actually social in nature:

-Policies and procedures: The company has to carefully think through what social network access to give employees. An all or nothing approach may not make sense, especially as a growing number of social networks offer important business opportunities and a chance to develop contacts. But tie social network-specific policies to all relevant IT policies.

-Training: The biggest danger in social networks is how people use them. Not only do they need to know the company’s policies, but you’ll also have to show them how those policies translate into actually using a given social network.

-Monitoring: As President Reagan famously said, trust but verify. The company should intelligently track what employees do on social networks. That doesn’t mean recording every detail, which would create a mountain of unexamined data. But see if people use social networks at times they’re not supposed to. Also, regularly scan public interactions, like on Twitter, to be sure that employees who officially represent the company do so properly.

Unfortunately, people are often careless when using social networks. According to the study, only 16 percent said that employees had no access. That spells a lot of companies with potential risk and the demand for IT professionals has never been greater.

American Sentinel University has developed IT programs that prepare students to improve business through technology.

American Sentinel understands the importance of offering market-relevant, forward-thinking online technology degree programs that address the needs of today’s – and tomorrow’s – organizations.

Online programs range from software development and networking, information security to geographic information systems (GIS) to develop and improve the skills of IT professionals at various stages in their careers. The programs also prepare students to improve their organizations through technology and keep in tune with changing needs.

Degree programs include: Bachelor of Science Information Systems, Bachelor of Science Information Security, Bachelor of Science Information Technology – Networking, Bachelor of Science Management Information Systems, Master of Science Computer Science and Master of Science Information Systems, with industry certifications in Microsoft, CompTIA, Cisco and PMP.

“Cybersecurity will continue to be a relevant and in-demand field for years to come,” says Lazo. “While real-world experience is essential, gone are the days when this was considered sufficient by employers. Professionals need a practical education to complement their experience. For most busy adults, their only option is a distance-based education program that provides them with the tools to advance, without putting their families and careers on hold.”

Social networks are not about to disappear and trying to eliminate them would be like waging a battle against phones during the early days of telecommunications. Instead, IT professionals can learn to help companies safely embrace it – and help their careers at the same time.

Garage-Media LLC, a new entrant in the outdoor media technology industry, and its affiliates, has announced a $30 million commitment for new Digital Outdoor projects with strategic partner A2aMEDIA. A2aMEDIA controls the U.S. and Canadian rights to the patented technology, Mediamesh, the world’s premier, transparent, architectural digital display technology. Mediamesh, comprised of stainless steel mesh with interwoven LED profiles, provides building owners and investors the unparalleled opportunity to broadcast messages in the most aesthetic and innovative way possible. Using 80% less power than conventional LED displays, Mediamesh also delivers a strong environmental message for its owners with the decreased energy costs.

With groundbreaking technology at their disposal, Garage-Media will focus on the purchase and capitalization of “hard to reach,” high-traffic locations. The first of these locations will be the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Times Square, New York City. This long-term aesthetic upgrade will cover approximately 6,000 square feet of the Port Authority’s facade on 8th Avenue and 42nd Street, with an additional 25,000 square feet of architectural lighting that will be color coordinated with its visual messaging. The media platform, which can provide up to 70% transparency, will be installed over the face of the terminal. The transparency allows easy passage of emissions through the display, thereby ensuring the safety of bus riders and Port Authority employees. The facade will display media content that is viewable from the sidewalk and street. The bold color and large format images will appear to “float” over the face of the terminal. Garage-Media’s Adam King commented, “This Port Authority project brings together the best of a public/private partnership. We are pleased to have the opportunity to launch our venture with A2aMEDIA in such a high profile location. It serves as a model for other locations around the country that have incredible potential, but haven’t had the benefit of A2aMEDIA’s new transparent digital technology.”

The Port Authority Bus Terminal Mediamesh Project was financed by Macquarie Equipment Finance, headquartered in Australia with U.S.-based operations, and is one of the world’s largest independent equipment lessors.

Johnsen, Fretty & Co. LLC, a Stamford, CT-based investment bank specializing in the out-of-home media industry, is advising Garage-Media on all funding-related matters.

GameFly, Inc., the leading online video game rental subscription service, today announced the acquisition of IGN Entertainment‘s Direct2Drive.com (D2D), a leader in digital distribution of video games. D2D, the popular digital retailer, will continue providing more than 3,000 PC and Mac titles for gamers to purchase and download digitally. As part of the transaction, IGN will gain a minority equity stake in GameFly, but will play no direct role in GameFly’s operations or governance. News Corporation will take an observer seat on GameFly’s board.

“We’re very excited to bring the D2D team onboard at GameFly and expand our ability to deliver games to consumers,” said David Hodess, CEO of GameFly. “Only GameFly can offer a complete library of physical and digital games for the PC, Mac and consoles in one place.”

“GameFly has been an innovator in the video games industry, and it continues to evolve with the expansion of its digital offering. We’re excited to continue working and partnering with GameFly moving forward,” said Jorge Espinel, EVP of Strategy and Corporate Development for News Corp. Digital Media Group and GameFly’s board observer.

Terms of the deal are not disclosed.