to believe they wouldn't.
The biggest problem with AOL is the same complaint I had with Windows. That is, it made the use of a computer too easy.
This wouldn't be a bad thing if the users just left the rest of the system alone, and did their chatting and email, but they like to download things, and have no idea what they are doing.
Neither Windows nor, to a greater extent AOL, finish what they start. They give the average human enough access to get in trouble.
There is a solution on the way though. For those who think they should have to do no more than turn the system on and get their email, there is a new product out called an Internet Appliance.
I did support for the beta testing of Intel's DOT Station appliance. The criteria for users was that they have Zero computer experience. These internet toasters will be perfect for the market segment we are complaining about today.
Users will be limited to specific uses of the machine, which will preclude a lot of the actions that result in calls to tech support.
Of course, idiot-proofing the machines means less job security for we poor fools who help them out, but it's a price I might be willing to pay. |
