An 81-year-old author and AARP member complained about how word processors stink, and to that Don Norman said that there's no easy answer except maybe we need a consumer revolt. Sandy Berger, host of the AARP.org Computers & Technology website, suggested that the author could try shareware and maybe focus on only using features that matter. Ann Wrixon, CEO of SeniorNet, has annecdotal evidence that the software manufacturers don't hear enough from users. Don Jones, VP of Gateway Computers, wanted the audience to understand that they should pick the most beneficial way to tackle a computer problem, and it's Gateway's responsibility to offer multiple options for user education--and they do.

Consultant and storyteller Thom Haller continues moderating the lively discussion with frustrated audience members ...

It's interesting to note that Don Norman mentioned phonecams (among other things) as one of the wonderful technologies that lies on the other side of our current usability hurdles. His son, who works in Japan, takes photos with his cellphone and e-mails them to him here in the U.S. as a way to stay in regular contact.

- mike lee - chicago @ the AARP member event