My fifteenth book in my eighteenth year at IBM—it’s hard to believe so much time has passed and Information Management technology has become not just my career, but somewhat of a hobby (insert image of Chloe reading this in a couple of years once she learns the universal “loser” gesture).

I often dedicate my books to people in my life: This book I actually want to dedicate to the company in my life that turned 100 years old on August 12, 2011: IBM. In this day and age of fluid careers, the U.S. Department of Labor has remarked that the average learner will have 10 to 14 jobs by the time they are 38; 1 in 4 workers have been with their employer less than a year; and 1 in 2 workers have been with their employer less than 5 years. Sometimes I get asked about my 18-year tenure at IBM in a tone of disbelief for my generation. In my 18 years at IBM, I’ve had the honor to learn and participate in the latest technologies, marketing, sales, technical sales, writing, usability design, development, partner programs, channels, education, support, services, public speaking, competitive analysis, and always learning more. IBM has always been a place that nurtures excellence and opportunity for those thirsty to make a difference, and I’ve got a thirst not yet quenched. IBM deeply encourages learning from others—and I often wonder if other people feel like they won the lottery with a mentoring team (Martin Wildberger, Bob Piciano, Dale Rebhorn, and Alyse Passarelli) like the one I have. Thanks to IBM for providing an endless cup of opportunity and learning experiences.

Finally, to my two gals, whose spirits always run through my soul: Grace Madeleine Zikopoulos and Chloë Alyse Zikopoulos.

—Paul Zikopoulos

This is the fourth book that I have authored, and every time I dedicate the book to my wife and family. Well this is no exception, because it’s their support that makes this all possible, as anyone who has ever spent hours and hours of their own personal time writing a book can attest to.

To my wife, Teresa, who is always supporting me 100 percent in all that I do, including crazy ideas like writing a book. She knows full well how much time it takes to write a book since she is a real author herself and yet she still supported me when I told her I was going to write this book (you are a saint). And to Riley and Sophia, who are now old enough to read one of my books (not that they are really interested in any of this stuff since they are both under ten). Daddy is finished writing his book so let’s go outside and play.

—Chris Eaton

I’d like to thank Sandra, Erik, and Anna for supporting me, and giving me the time to do this. Also, thanks to Paul for making this book happen and asking me to contribute.

—Dirk deRoos

I would like to thank my ridiculously supportive wife and put in writing for Lauren and William that yes, I will finally take them to Disneyland again now that this is published. I’d also like to thank Anant Jhingran for both the coaching and opportunities he has entrusted in me.

—Thomas Deutsch

“If you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life.” I dedicate this book to all my colleagues at IBM that I worked with over the years who helped me learn and grow and have made this saying come true for me.

—George Lapis

Thanks to my IBM colleagues in Big Data Research and Development for the exciting technologies I get to work on every day. I also want to thank Paul for the opportunity to contribute to this book. Last but not least, and most importantly, for my wife, Amy, and my twins, Tiffany and Ronald, thank you for everything you do, the joy you bring, and for supporting the time it took to work on this book.

—Steven Sit