The third time is the charm, as they say! Many talented people worked long hours to make the third edition of this book a reality, and they all have my sincere appreciation. I wish to thank Jones & Bartlett Learning for inviting me back to work on this edition. The competence of the Jones & Bartlett team makes revision work so much easier. Carole Jelen, my literary agent, continues to earn my gratitude for answering my endless questions with grace and good humor.

I am fortunate to have the support of friends and family members in all that I do. I would especially like to thank my friends and colleagues at Vantage Technology Consulting Group for encouraging me when the “writing times” were tough. In addition, the cheer, advice, subject matter review, and emergency cookie packages from friends Cathy Bates, Faith Graham, Pam Hermes, Amy Keene, Kim Lindros, Kim Milford, Matt Morton, Tim O’Brien, Patricia Rosen, David Seidl, Valerie Vogel, and Jon Young were invaluable. You all are the best and I am grateful for your friendship.

Finally, my husband, Ananth, and son, A.J., deserve special thanks for their tireless support. I am a very lucky person. My love, always, to you both.