Opinion: Learning The Basics
Linked by Scott Cabana on Thu 2nd Dec 2004 20:18 UTC
Editorial A couple of days ago, I read an interesting article by Kevin Kostis about how complex computer systems are and how they have a long way to go. I have to partly agree with his assessment, however a lot of folks don't take the time to learn about there own investment.
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A PC isn't like a single vehicle at all, but more like a multi-level parking ramp which is stocked full of vehicles, each with its own interface and its own set of general capabilities.

A simple application (passenger car?) can be relatively easy to learn, and one can usually get a basic vehicle to perform its task in time with practice, and without having to learn anything more about it than how to turn the key, push the pedals, and turn the wheel.

Some vehicles (compilers, word processors) are specialized for more complex tasks and will typically come with a larger selection of buttons and knobs, and that means a steeper learning curve.

Once a person learns a few basic facts about these types of vehicles, however, they aren't that hard to use, and over time one can learn to effectively drive a large number of vehicles (or use a wide selection of software) without really having to know much about what goes on underneath.

Running the entire parking garage yourself, however, might require a lot of esoteric knowledge that a typical vehicle user might not have.

How many parking spaces are in the garage? How large are those parking spaces? If you choose to go out and buy a new vehicle on your own, will it actually fit into the garage you currently own?

How does one keep the garage secure from break-ins? Are some types of garages more secure from intrusion than others?

Just a thought, anyway...