Everyday Computing, Features, Technology

As Easy As ICT

By Dr. Lyndell St. Ville- ICT Consultant
By Dr. Lyndell St. Ville- ICT Consultant

YOU may have experienced the sheer joy when observing a skilled person displaying their talent. Fortunately, we have some real treasures in our midst, whose skill for their craft is not only beautiful, but it captivates the audience at a basic level. One can not help but listen with wonder when a Derek Walcott poem is recited, or be entranced by a Boo Hinkson performance, or be uplifted by the cadence in the delivery of Kweyol by Dame Pearlette Louisy.

The problem caused by observing master craftsmen and women, who display their work with such skill and dexterity, is that we may be lulled into a false sense of simplicity. There is a tendency for us to think that anyone could do it, because these trained and skilled professionals make their work look so easy. There is a flaw in that thinking. What is hidden is greater than what you do see, just as 90% of an iceberg is unseen below the water surface.

This issue also appears in ICT practice, where we interact with so little of the overall system, and where an average person with a computer can produce professional-looking documents. Although this is something to celebrate, someone must understand the hidden 90% of the ICT iceberg.

For reference, here are some of the factors that influence an ICT-related decision. The key items that a competent ICT professional should bear in mind when making a recommendation, purchase, or assessment. (See earlier article: “School Laptops – A Good Choice”, March 5th, 2015).

* Reliability
Does the new item make it more difficult for you to experience a failure?
* Openness
Is your data free, allowing you to use any tool that you wish to use?
* Availability
Will this tool cause you to experience some down-time that may have an impact on your work?
* Interoperability
Will this item cope seamlessly with other tools that are already in use?
* Cost
Is it Affordable?

These are only a small subset of the many issues that ought to be balanced when making a good decision. More difficult problems cause a large reaction (perhaps in cost) for a modest change in another factor. Your results may vary, based on the skill level of your ICT provider. Choose with care.

To share your own views, contact the author at: www.datashore.net or via The Voice.

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