Book Tech Support

Instant Messaging

It's been a long time since I have used Instant Messaging. Probably five years or so. Back then I tried a variety of IM software (ICQ, MSN Messenger, Yahoo, AIM, Trillian, etc.). Gtalk seems very simple and easy to use, though many of the features are so streamlined that it can be challenging for some to discover and use features (like Group chat) that might be fun or useful.

Several of us here at Mukilteo used the group chat feature and it was interesting to see how everyone used it. One of the interesting features is the "Off the Record" option. Just like your phone's text messages, everything is (by default) recorded.

I will be testing the other downloadable IM programs that are out there soon. It might be a useful tool for staff at the front desk if they need to get the attention of the staff in the backroom. I will just need to find a good program that can have it's message alert sound altered.

How do you find people?

Last week I worked with Alisa in discovering how to find another person's blog. If you just go out looking for a blog without knowing it's name you are going to have a hard time. The best way it seems to share your blog with friends and co-workers is by sending your URL to everyone in an E-mail.

If you find a blog you want to keep caught up on there is a link that sets up your RSS Feed (which I believe we will be covering in more detail in week five).

Censorship

http://www.idahopress.com/news/?id=4310

I find it interesting how people want things that they find intellectually uncomfortable treated. If we put everything that someone found offensive into one room the original library would be a very empty place and we would have to come up with a new place filled with dangerous thoughts.

http://www.unshelved.com/archive.aspx?strip=20071006