I’m on my way to a presentation given by an educational learning specialist from Apple, and I’m just struck wondering if we’re adding too many layers of complexity to content delivery. Faculty, staff and students alike have to remember this and that password, that you can do X technique on a Mac, but it’s different on Windows… the list goes on and on, and shows no sign of stopping. I’m a sys admin and have been for years. But sometimes even I get befuddled at it all.
So I am asking myself rhetorically, are we adding more technology at the expense of ease of use? Not a bad thought to have in mind when considering the presentation, I think.
Hi Michael,
My comment really went to format but your password comment is especially timely. I still think you should be applauded for how you helped Mac use become worlds easier at the GC.
I think security practices is where we’re going to disagree – I believe we should be forced to periodically reset “permanent” passwords like those used by Gmail. I don’t know what the optimal schedule would be, but I think it should be done. But then again, I’m biased, having had my PayPal account hacked to the tune of $1500+ (all refunded, but still a headache). If we make changing passwords a habit, it should cease being so onerous.
More than technology standing in the way of users, I see policies and so-called ‘security’ practices standing in the way of users ease in accessing content.
I have no problems getting to my gmail account, I never have to change the password and it’s accessible for all internet enabled devices. Not always true with the platform restricted services offered by CUNY.
(Hi Helen!)