Msg: 2950 *Conference*

08-01-92 19:27:29

From: RICHARD HANSON

To : DAVID FIRTH

Subj: REPLY TO MSG #2947 (DOWNLOAD/CSIS?)

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Yes, David, I remember CP/M.  Used to teach its use to beginners, way back
when... the old days... but learning to PIP was the key, as I recall.
 
We concur that a text-based information service must be complex, and that one
just has to learn to "deal" with it.  I still, to this day, strongly feel the
isolation of not being able to see the bigger picture of "what's there," "how
to get at it effectively," and "what are the values."  Online service use is
like having a large black barrel of black marbles in which you know there's a
bright yellow cat eye in there someplace but are frustrated as to where it is
and how to get at it without spending all day; access is via a small hole.
Then, if found, what is its value, and are there any other bright yellow cat
eye's in there, related to the first?
 
I am curious: Without prying, may I ask, What do you do within those 30 minutes
you spend on CIS and GEnie?  What sort of information do you gain, how do you
find it valuable, and what is your measurement?  Also, are there "overwhlem"
factors you encounter and how do you deal with those?
 
My curiousity is due to the guide/tutorial I am currently writing for use of
this BBS.  Thanks... -Rick-