Warning: Rant-rich zone!
After creating yet another new identity to begin the process of viewing the SQL Server Reporting Services Webcast I found that the Interwise (sic) process requires me to install yet another piece of viewing software.
Well, I did download and install Interwise (sic) Participant.
Then I attempted to use Interwise (sic) Participant to play the Webcast.
Guess what? I received one of those "really helpful" error messages .... "Other applications are currently using your sound card. Please close them."
Sheesh!
Come on, Microsoft, surely, surely you can provide a better service than this?
Oh, but Interwise (sic) had more obstacles for me ... if I hadn't already been put off.
I was faced with yet another password box asking for ICC URL (whatever that is), ICC Identity (another one?) and ICC password. What is ICC? My best guess is that it might stand for Interwise Communication Center, except that the software identifies itself as Interwise (sic) Participant.
I find it hard to believe that any Web site would in 2003 have such a stupid process, putting a succession of obstacles in the user's way.
Microsoft, if you are listening, this nonsense prevents users accessing information on SQL Server 2000 Reporting Services which, I suspect, will be a key step forward in business reporting. This user's experience was very disappointing.
If Microsoft has paid good money, and I suspect they must have, they should seek much improved user experience from Interwise (sic).
So, just as I intended to exit Interwise (sic) Participant and attempted to close the application that attempt to close Interwise (sic) Participant then started it presenting the SQL Server Reporting Services Webcast!
Surreal. Totally surreal.
Posted by Andrew Watt at October 15, 2003 03:30 PMGenerosity is giving more than you can, and pride is taking less than you need.
Posted by: O'Brien Megan at January 21, 2004 09:31 AMI believe that the "icc" dialog appears for you to submit information needed for live, registered webcast participants.
If you're watching/listening to an archive, the event materials and Interwise Participant Client features aren't available, but you can still get audio, ppt and the vt pc screen, as you saw.
Sloppy program, but is working as intended.
Posted by: Chuck Norris at November 7, 2003 11:09 AM
What is surreal is your post. The beta for reporting services is freely available, should you satisfy yourself with a poor and low bandwidth video streaming.