Technology can be a pain in the neck.
I’ve been in the computer and communications business since 1970. I was there when TCPIP was invented. I didn’t invent it, but I was around. Problem is that technology can be as big a detriment to business as it is a help. Technology is only a tool. It all depends on how individuals implement it.
Some things should not be automated. The item that comes to mind is the computerized thermostat. It is ridiculously complicated. I realize it cost the same as the old analog unit, but it does not improve the situation. It reminds me of the audio tuners and amplifiers of the late ’70’s when the Japanese put every available technological gizmo on the units in an effort to establish product differentiation. I switched to German equipment because they kept it simple.
That’s the key to technological innovation. Make it simpler.
Another innovation open to abuse is voice mail. Many people use it as a barrier to human communication. The same can be said for e-mail and instant messaging. There were a group of 6 programmers all working in the same small room, without cubicles, who would IM each other rather than swivel their chair around to ask a question. I can always think of a good reason to walk over and have a conversation with the person I want to talk with.
Life is full of unintended consequences. Just remember, to error is human, but you need a computer to really screw something up.
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POSTED IN: Computer Technology
1 opinion for Technology can be a pain in the neck.
Anne Wayman
Nov 1, 2007 at 10:55 am
Yeah, my first computer was an appleII+ which dates me as well, and I couldn’t agree more… keep it simple, make it simpler… what a great tech credo… now how do we get “them” to listen?
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