I would like to know the fastest and most timley way to improve in chess. I read books, use programs and play alot. I am not sure if I am getting better. I would like some input into this topic. Books to read or one main book that changed your thinking and made you better. Programs to buy. Chess DvD's to buy that really helped you. Please give me some good info. Thanks.

Honestly, I'm a fan of reviewing grandmaster games with full commentary.  Theres a lot of that here at chess.com.  To be able to watch GMs and watch how they do it is inspiring :P

I found that simply playing a plethora of games as well as analyzing several master-games a week helped me improve after my initial round of beginning Chess Books.  See if it works for you.

Join a chess club if you can. If not, play the strongest competition you can here, unrated and pick their brains with questions. Many chess coaches on-line if you have the money but you would be better off finding a chess club! I own 2500+ chess books but chess engines make them obsolete but don't go to the 0101 chess calculators! Board time, play play play blood sweat and tears is what it takes to become better!!

Play as much as you can. You can study a little on the side to boost yourself. Pick a few openings, learn a few basic tatics, and then go play.

I have 15 chess books. 1 Chess Dvd. Thanks for the input but I am looking for Chess Dvd titles and book titles if you can recommend any.

It totally depends on what level you're at.

The easiest advice is sharpen your tactics. Convekta's series is a favorite, or go online. My favorite site is chesstempo.