Cryptic clues

Cryptography, cartography and graphology have evolved into specialised sciences that are proving to be useful in every field, right from satellite entertainment to computers, to protecting confidential information from unwelcome, prying eyes.

CRYPTOGRAPHY essentially is the art of self- preservation or protection. It is an art that has been in existence since the beginning of time. Coded messages used to be sent by kings and heads of states through spies and messengers. And more recently, during the early 17th century when slaves in Southern America communicated through coded messages woven into quilts in their journey to freedom to the North. Since then, cryptology has evolved into an art and a science unique in its nature.

It has now evolved into a highly specialised science that is useful in every field right from satellite entertainment to computers, to protect confidential information from unwelcome, prying eyes. Cryptographers/cryptologists are specialists who help do this. They are almost like hackers who devise ways of cracking the most sophisticated technology and inventing foolproof security measures to prevent serious offenders from doing the same.

A challenging and exciting occupation, cryptographers work with research organisations, public and private sector companies, or as consultants. A specialisation in technical subjects such as engineering, mathematics and computer science is necessary to work as a cryptographer.

Success in this career requires total dedication and devotion, a love for the subject, unbounded curiosity and inquisitiveness. A high degree of lateral thinking, problem solving capabilities, mental alertness and willingness to undertake at least the minimal risk.

You also need to be open to ideas and suggestions, as anything may spark a fantastic idea for a security code. Cryptographers working with government agencies are instrumental in protecting the communications systems of the country, in unearthing and deciphering sensitive information being sent across countries, and in intercepting and decoding communications harmful to the security of the nation.

Security on the Internet, web and other IT applications has become very important and cryptographers in this field are in great demand, to encrypt and decrypt messages.

The International Association for Cryptologic Research (IACR) is a non-profit organisation that conducts research in cryptology and related sciences.

The budding cryptologist can become a member of the organisation and participate in the various workshops and conferences that it conducts. The organisation also has various publications and journals that can enhance one's grasp of the subject. (You can visit the following website to garner more information- www.iacr.org).

The organisation also takes in people qualified to conduct research in cryptology. In India, the first international conference on cryptology was held at the Statistical Institute of India, Calcutta, while the second one is being held at IIT, Madras in December 2001 (organised by the Institute of Mathematical Sciences and IIT, Madras).

These conferences also have pre and post conference tutorials, and papers on the subject during the conference will be presented by both, Indian and international speakers.

SAMYUKTA KODA

samyukta.hyd@careercommunity.co.in

Map your future

MAPS have been around for ages. From ancient Babylonian clay tablets and Chinese cartography to 20th century aerial photographs, computers, electronic distance-measuring instruments and the Internet, Cartography as the science that deals with map making has come a long way.

Though the age-old method of hand drawing still exists, computers are now being used extensively to create high quality and precision maps. Digitisation of maps is making storage and access of map information easy.

The job of a cartographer is to create maps that are easy to read. Map production starts with a detailed plan and supporting research. The data collected is then documented and the map is drawn up with specifications like title, legend, scale etc. clearly defined.

Cartographers

Also known as land information officers, cartographers design and revise maps and charts. They use computer technology, and techniques from maths and science to do this. Cartographers may have a team of cartographic technicians assisting them.

They can specialise in production of topographical maps, maps related to town planning, weather forecasting, travel and tourism, geological or mineral exploration, and military and development of geographical information systems.

Cartographers also engage in the design and management of Geographical Information Systems (GIS).

They produce digital topographic data and store it in geographical databases, analyse and interpret the information.

Cartographic illustrators

Cartographic illustrators provide illustrative design, photographic services and desktop publishing by making use of popular software packages. These can be used for teaching, display and promotional purposes.

Special software packages required for the job are Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and Quark Xpress.

Cartographic editors

They interpret ideas and manage resources to create innovative and marketable products. One needs to be experienced in all aspects of map production including knowledge of packages like Freehand, Illustrator and PhotoShop.

Cartographic technicians

These specialists assist in analysing data, photographs and other information sources to prepare maps, charts and diagrams. Their job may include taking measurements, recording and classification of data into appropriate formats and making calculations based on the data. Cartographic technicians can specialise in topographic maps, cadastral maps or thematic maps.

Qualifications

Anna University offers a BE course in geo-informatics which includes a module on cartography. Various universities in UK, USA and Canada offer specialised courses and facilities in Cartography.

The job may require travelling to various places to physically survey the land. One needs to have a passion for geography, and ability to work with computers with a keen eye for detail. Proficiency in science and maths is also a requisite.

Cartographers are employed by the government as well as private firms. Municipalities, defense, census and the survey of India are some government agencies that require the services of Cartographers. Businesses that deal with selling maps, producing maps for encyclopedias, reference books and atlases, publishers, planners, engineers, architects also need cartographers.

ARCHANA JAYAKAR

archana.hyd@careercommunity.co.in

Graphology

The art of handwriting analysis

HANDWRITING analysis or Graphology is the art of determining the character of an individual from their handwriting. Handwriting analysis neither foretells the future, nor does it reveal the past.

It gives you an insight into the person you are and can also help you to gain an understanding and insight into the personality of other people. It answers questions that can start individuals on the way to better self-understanding.

It gives them an understanding as to who they really are and how others see them. It can also suggest ways to reduce tension, handle stress efficiently, and reach greater self-actualisation and fulfilment.

Graphology is applied...

*To determine personality profiles that are done for business applications in screening potential employees. Counsellors use the information for focusing their therapy on the individual's particular concerns.

Personal analyses are used for compatibility and for self- assessments.

*A handwriting expert specialises in the forensic aspect of this field by identifying signatures and other writings to determine whether they are forgeries or valid for the stated purposes.

*Document examination is another area that focuses on ink, paper and typewriter identification.

*It also helps in working with children who have learning disadvantages and in meeting their special needs.

*It is used too, for helping people find the most compatible life partner.

Course details

Graphology in many cases is a self-taught science and those who want to turn it into a profession can take up the forensic course offered by the state departments as it offers graphology as a subject specialisation.

Various books and online courses on graphology are available for those who want to pursue it informally.

The curriculum is divided into a basic introductory course that gives a general overview of the field and an advanced course.

Whether one is filling out an application, writing down a grocery list, or signing a check their handwriting bears the unique imprint of their personality, with all its strengths and weaknesses.

MALINI SURYANARAYANAN

maalini.mdsKcareercommunity.co.in