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This site is no longer maintained.
My current weblog.
Monday, April 22, 2002Not posting much today, probably won't be tomorrow either. Trying to convert 2MB worth of XML database dumps from my old weblog into a static rendering is keeping me busy.
These links have been going around, and even found their way to Slashdot:
Why Free software usability tends to suck
Free software and good user interfaces
GNOME, free software, and user interfaces thread on Advogato
If good UI design were easy, nobody would read Jakob Nielsen. Even Apple messes up sometimes.
The first step in good interface design, way before anyone starts quoting Jakob, is that there must be a person (or group) responsible for the UI that is sufficiently empowered to affect change. For small projects it may be enough that a single developer to devote some of their time to the usability process, and make UI changes themselves. Large projects require dedicated usability people, and they must have the power to reject a developer's changes until the UI is improved.
It sounds simple and obvious, but UI failures for many projects begin here. Not just in the Open Source community, either.
One poster in the Advogato thread points out that Technical Writers can be an asset in the usability process. I agree, but depending on Technical Writers for usability would be a mistake. They are often not involved in the early stages of the development process, and rarely can affect changes that aren't simply cosmetic.
Slashot: Wireless Carriers Accused of Antitrust Violations
The carriers basically dictate required features to handset manufacturers. Phones are tied to specific carriers and cannot be moved between carriers. Carriers refuse to allow handsets on their network they didn't approve. Handset manufacturers thus cannot sell handsets that aren't approved by carriers because carriers will not allow them to be used.
YEESSSS! YES YES YES YES!
Let's go after the handset manufacturers too, as they have used the carriers' practices to keep handset pricing artificially high. Ever wonder why Microsoft wants a piece of the handset business? Take a look at Nokia's financials.
Slashdot: dot.com Bust Gotcha Down? Try the Gubmint!
The secret is out, a number of government agencies are participating in a major IT recruitment campaign. I've been paying close attention to overseas State Department and Army (Civilian) listings for the past several weeks. Station allowances are good. Differentials for "undesirable" and "hazardous" location are downright generous, if staying in Bahrain for a couple of years doesn't terrify you.
The downside to civilian IT positions in the military is that most are designated "Emergency Essential." If a war breaks out you cannot simply quit and run home to mommy.
