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I found myself going back to the future again recently with applying old technology to new, primarily out of old habits.
I became a new believer of the power of the tablet computer a few months ago. With my newly issued iPad I have been able to overcome most obstacles so the iPad can be a powerful business tool.
Then I started looking at what I did not like about the device, the touchscreen was my number one gripe. Not because of limitations of the user interface but more out of my old typing habits just did not work as well on the touchscreen. Another iPad user who happens to be a younger grad student reminded me (rubbed in) that she can type over 70 WPM with the touchscreen. Easy solution for me I simply invested in a Bluetooth keyboard I saw when a salesman came into the office and I mistook his iPad for a small netbook computer. I became a fan and I highly recommend it for those who have issues with the touchscreen.
Next I wanted to be able to use my iPad to display presentations on older projectors that are still in use at our client's sites. VGA is still the predominant interface for these projectors so I went to the Apple store and picked up a iPad to VGA adapter. First encounter with a Apple Genius and the abundance of grey matter did not interfere with the ability of the young man showing me where the correct cable was on the wall.
To test out my newly outfitted iPad there I was with the keyboard and using a 26 inch TV as a monitor. This felt real comfortable to me then it dawned on me, I just converted this really cool modern device into not much more than a circa 80s PC.
Maybe not as extreme as outfitting a Delorean for space travel but it still was pretty absurd tripping over cables for a consultant who specializes in mobility strategies.
Then I started probing a few of my friends and associates and came to the realization that this stigma of comfort computing was pretty common. Not restricted to an age group or technology faith, people just prefer staying with what they are comfortable with.
The IPI team are effective agents for change. Little did we foresee that to continue our effectiveness we would have to add to our bag of tools the ability to diplomatically provide counseling, reassuring our clients "it's ok for you to leave your happy place".