Message-ID: <199601040026.TAA28919@lifestat.net> Date: Wed, 3 Jan 1996 19:26:04 -0500 From: "Bruce L. Geisert" <mailto:bgeisert@LIFESTAT.NET> Subject: TRS-80 Computers To: Multiple recipients of list DEVEL-L <mailto:DEVEL-L@AMERICAN.EDU>
I wanted to clearup a point about the TRS-80 article I forwarded. I sent the article as an example of a possibly misdirected attempt, not in support of the idea. As a group we have discussed how, and when, computers are useful tools for countries. The point is by what standard do we evaluate the best resources to be "donated" if they are available. The issue of the TRS-80 being outdated, and unsupportable, may be applied to any 286/386 machine provided as part of a project.I've seen two biases in talking about providing equipment for projects: 1) "use an older generation" on the assumption that somehow these can be better supported; and, 2) a snobbish reaction, that the equipment being used is so out of date. We need to review our own assumptions, and be very clear about our intended impact when developing system plans. The issue shouldn't be whether WE would want to use a system, but rather would the system be useful to the recipient; that's the goal. If it's useful, then why not?
Comments, ideas are welcome.
============================================================ Bruce L. Geisert, MIS Consultant P.O. Box 254 p/f) 1-540-937-3651 Amissville, VA 22002 mailto:bgeisert@lifestat.net