I can’t believe it’s already 2002. It seems like just yesterday I was hoarding bottled water and dried beans for Y2K.

Being the procrastinator that I am, I still haven’t made my New Year’s resolutions. So instead, I thought I’d suggest some for you! Here they are.

A CIO’s New Year’s Resolutions

• I will take time to learn the ins and outs of software subscription models and Web services.
• I will get involved with an IT interest group that represents the buyers?not the sellers?of technology. If I can’t find one, I’ll start one myself.
• I will find out what the politicians are pushing in the way of new rules to govern Internet commerce, security and privacy.
• Repeat the second resolution; add a lobbying component.

Not sure where to start? Lucky for you we’ve got some articles in this issue to help you on your way. Our cover story on Microsoft’s new licensing plan, by Scott Berinato, explores the nuances and variations of what Redmond is pushing?and shows how CIOs are pushing back (see "Microsoft’s License to Fail," Page 52). And Elana Varon’s "Homeland Defense: New Rules of War" (Page 40) sketches out the issues bubbling up in Washington that will most definitely have an impact on your company’s business and IT. At the least, these are things you should be aware of, and there’s no reason you and your company can’t take a more active role in influencing how these issues play out.

Of course, making a resolution is only the first step; keeping it is the hard part. There are a handful of websites that can help. First is How-to-keep-your-new-years-resolution.com, which offers both an understanding attitude toward procrastinators (which I definitely appreciate) and lots of useful tips for how to keep your resolve. MyGoals.com will help you build a plan for setting and keeping your personal and professional goals. And Resolutions Reminders will actually send you monthly nudges, lest you forget (I don’t know about you, but that would drive me nuts!).

While I haven’t actually made a resolution yet, I am working toward one. More than anything, I’d like to achieve the kind of perspective that will help me get the most out of work, play, community and family. My very best wishes for your success in this new year?both personal and professional.