Monday, July 2, 2007

Q: "So... Who ARE you?" A: a V2.2 Guy

Robert Scoble starts all his interviews with the question: "So... Who ARE you?". Although, the question (& he) are kind of geeky, it's really a brilliant question. (If you don't know Scoble, just google "Robert")

It's a brilliant question because all of us can talk about ourselves for hours [nay, days!] so, as I answer the question, I'll try to be brief. If anyone wants to know more [not bloody likely], post a comment, and I'll respond there...

So, a "Version 2.2 Guy"? What the heck is that [still channeling Scoble here]?

I have literally grown up with technology (I'm 56.7 yrs old), and have tried many new things in my life and career in computers. I also tend to be cautious about being too far onto the "bleeding edge". I've created a lot of software, designed a lot of systems, and built a bit of hardware, too. So, I am VERY aware of the many things that can go wrong with a version 1.0 product. Thus, I tend to wait for the 2.0. And then I procrastinate a bit, and end up with version 2.2. Now any product that gets to 2.2, usually works pretty well, so it will be pretty solid, satisfying, if a bit stodgy. That's what I usually buy.

I've been blessed with the opportunity to work with an IBM 1440 and a Burroughs 5000, while still in high school in 1967, programmed in over a dozen languages, tried out early online systems in 1969, used an early version of the Internet in 1972, CDC 6500 and IBM 360s in the '70s, built an IMSAI kit personal computer in 1978, tried out a Lisa (the proto-Macintosh) in 1983, owned (and loved) an Amiga 500 in 1988, and used (and sometimes cursed) a series of Windows computers (some home-built), from 1993 to the present. I also traveled along a path of Casio wristwatches and Digital Diaries, through the wonderful Palm Vx, that led to the Treo 600 and 700p smartphones.

All in all, I have a bit more perspective on new technology than many, many of the current generation of technology writers and commentators. But I also like a shiny, new thing. To get my hands on it and see how it works. Most of all, I like to learn new things.

2 comments:

t-dub said...

You should also mention that you research everything *to death*. I catch a lot of flack from my friends for my tendencies in that direction, and I know you go even further to make sure that your purchases are good ones before you even make them....

Pat said...

Hmmm, I guess you know your old man too well ;)

But it is true. I inherited the "shopper gene" from my Mom, and it may have been passed down. Nothing gets bought until there is thorough knowledge, and the price is right, and you have the money to buy it. Otherwise, you wait.

Unless, of course, you are seduced and "Jobbed" by Steve ("Designed by Apple in California")...