Putting Consumers in Charge of Technology

"Simplifying Technology" shows how to eliminate techno-stress. Americans today enjoy email less, are concerned about online security, and spend too much time making choices on digital products. New book tells consumers how they can take charge fast, and simplify their lives with technology.

New York, NY (PRWEB) June 22, 2004 -- Recent studies show that American computer users enjoy email less than before, and are increasingly frustrated about spam. Besides security concerns, we stress about choices over which cell phone and service provider to choose, which digital camera will be best, and when to buy a high definition television. We spend hours researching online, looking in stores, and often becoming more confused about electronics and computers.

"Simplifying Technology," a new book from technology consultant Susan Larson, offers a holistic view of the problem and promises that anyone can take charge of gadgets and computers -- if they understand the truth about technology."

In talking to many people in the course of market research -- as well as advising my own friends and family," Larson said, I was distressed by how many smart people said they were 'stupid when it came to understanding new gadgets. I wanted to offer a simple way for anyone to choose and use digital products without having to learn specs and a new vocabulary."    

Taking Charge with the Five-Question Solution

"Simplifying Technology" says that manufacturers still need to improve, but that consumers can influence the situation by taking charge of their own needs. In some cases, that means not listening to the experts. You know what you need," says the author, and you shouldnt have to spend hours choosing the right product. By starting with the 'five question solution, you can choose a new digital camera or DVD player in a few minutes." The five question solution:
1) What will it do for me that I havent been able to do before?
2) How often will I use it?
3) How much will it cost me over time?
4) Will it make my life easier?
5) Will it make my life more enjoyable?

The first truth about technology, according to the book, is that technology never works as well as we do. If we understand that, we stay in control of the gadgets and allow them to simplify -- letting go of anything that complicates our lives.

Other tips and analysis include:
- The 2-year rule
- The digital difference
- The 3 causes of digital confusion
- Hokey-pokey products
- Simplifying online security
- Tiny gadgets
- Trial and error toast

Sorting Through the Clutter

Marc Cortez, Director of Marketing for the solar products division of Sharp Electronics, says: This is a great read. The stories are wonderful at highlighting the differences between a manufacturers focus on technology vs. an owners focus on usability. Its also great at helping people sort through the clutter of the new technology products available."

What makes Larson believe that her approach will work? Ive been in and around the business for years, but even though I know a few things about specs, this is the same method that Ive been using to buy and enjoy technology -- so I know that it works."

If there are just two things that she wants readers to take from her book, they are:
1) You are not stupid about technology (it exists to serve you), and
2) You should not let technology cause stress; it should simplify your life.

The book is available now in ebook format, at www.simplifyingtechnology.com. The ebook is a great example of technology that simplifies by offering value and portability across platforms," adds Larson, and the print version will be available this summer for readers who prefer the printed page."