communication

Culture Clash

September 29, 2011

Fred Wilson had a very funny guest post about products, but one of the images struck something in me. I understand the concept, but the problem is that I have never eaten bacon in my life. Nor would have any practicing Jewish or Muslim person, or a vegetarian, for whom bacon or meat can be repulsive. Having seen […]

Read the full article →

Text is King

September 11, 2011

Martin Fowler explains why video (of technical content) has little appeal for him: When I’m watching someone talk, and this may be in a video or live at a conference, I’m usually frustrated because things are moving too slowly. I can read much faster than I can listen. With reading I can also skip ahead […]

Read the full article →

Conversational Wavelength

August 29, 2011

Often, we hear people use the term “we should be on the same wavelength”. What does that actually mean? Here is my definition: This is how a conversation should take place. A topic is discussed, both sides understand what the other is saying, they directly address each other and the discussion ends in closure. It […]

Read the full article →

Instant Messaging Etiquette

May 3, 2011

Leigh Alexander talks about new forms of anxiety created by the Internet: A vague and gnawing pang of anxiety centered around an IM window that has lulled. During this time an individual feels unsure whether they have offended the IM recipient, committed a breach of IM etiquette, or have otherwise spoilt the presentation of themselves […]

Read the full article →

Why They Killed Socrates

April 8, 2009

In his book, “Amusing Ourselves to Death”, Neil Postman wrote At the opening of Socrates’ defense, addressing a jury of five hundred, he apologizes for not having a well-prepared speech. He tells his Athenian brothers that he will falter, begs that they not interrupt him on that account, asks that they regard him as they […]

Read the full article →