First in a series of articles on how to have a successful relationship with your Mac.
Damn computer! It just quits in the middle of a job. And sometimes I can't open a document that I've opened many times before. And if that isn't bad enough, that rush report I printed on my laser printer just yesterday ... won't print today! HELP!
Sound all too familiar? Of course it does. But these are only a few of the problems we all encounter on a day-to-day basis. I hear these questions every day in my consulting business. Are there any solutions?
Sorry, folks, the bad news is that computers don't make mistakes - people do. Computer hardware (for the most part) is flawless and logical. Unfortunately, people aren't. The computer can only do what people tell it to do and that's exactly where the trouble begins.
I met my first Mac in 1986 and the relationship is still going strong. Like most love affairs, we've had our good times and our bad times. In the beginning, Mac just didn't understand me at all. I was clear in stating my needs - but he wasn't listening. Clearly, we spoke two different languages! Well, you know the old adage "When in Rome do as the Romans do"... I finally accepted that I would have to learn to speak his language - but he could do his own laundry! (After all, I'm his partner, not his slave. Without me, he'd be nothing!)
So what can you do about your Macs' attitude? Get friendly with him - then become his intimate partner. Get close - get inside that brilliant CPU of his. Learn what makes him tick. Understand his needs. Love him ... respect him - take care of him - and you will have his undying obedience forever!
So, how do you go about understanding your Mac? There are numerous sources of help available. MUGs (Macintosh User Groups) are available just about everywhere. Or perhaps you might want to join a BBS (Bulletin Board Service). For those of you who have modems, this is a great way to get not only help and information, but a great selection of Freeware and Shareware. You'll also find the major software companies on these services. Okay ... so you don't have a modem ... what next?
There are many excellent training courses available - some cheap, some not so cheap. If you can't afford personal training, how about a video? Most of the popular software tutorials are now available on video for about $50 each - and I recommend them highly. And don't forget libraries and bookstores - you won't believe how many books are now available for Macintosh computers - from ResEdit to The Macintosh Bible (a book I consider to be a MUST HAVE for every Mac user). And of course, we know the great value of the many fine magazines published today.
Remember when you bought your computer and the sales clerk said "Call if you need help" - well go ahead and call them - if they can't answer your questions, they can probably tell you who can.
And last, but certainly not least, you probably have lots of friends and co-workers in the business - call them - ask questions. Maybe you can even offer them a tip.
So go ahead ... stand by your Mac. I promise you an exciting and rewarding relationship that will last a lifetime. (by the way, Macs don't leave hair in the bathroom sink and they never snore!)
So stay tuned to this column to learn more about Mac Relationships. Watch for these insightful articles: How to know when you've met the right Mac ... What to do when you just can't get him up ... How to nurse a sick Mac back to healthŠand more!
The Mac Lady is an independent web designer located in Vancouver, BC. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome and appreciated.
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