Journal: The average user...

Note: The following comments have very limited basis in reality, but I believe that they are fairly respresentative of my experiences. This started as a post and grew into what can only be decribed as a rough draft of what could probably become a well thought out book.

The Average User

Let us consider three categories of users:

1. Can do a decent job using the basic functions of all of their favorite software and will learn new functionality if absolutely necessary.
2. Is very interested in computers and how they work, causes a bit of trouble at the "dangerous" knowledge phase, but is generally interested in continued learning.
3. Has had a computer on their desk for 5 years, yet still has no idea how to copy a file or even change a document's font

As for population distribution: I'd like to think that Group 1 is mainstream and that Groups 2 and 3 are the exception. So, assuming a 50%/25%/25% (probably closer to 65%/15%/20%) the average user knowledge is just that - average. User understanding changes with technologies, but their level of knowledge remains pretty stable.

If I were a general contractor, I might be expected to know about cabinet making, wall framing, carpentry, plumbing, and electrical, and while most homeowners need a basic understanding of these concepts, the remaining population can get along just fine in ignorance. OTOH, computers are universal tools that are showing up in mechanics' shops, executive offices, home theatres, classrooms, airline ticket counters, bookstores, the UPS office, everywhere. People can still choose their profession, but computing ignores those boundaries. Beautiful tools like lathes, arc welders, sliderules, sewing machines, typewriters, etc are used by specific industries or hobbyists, yet the foundations of computing have left that realm. A "savvy" computer user is supposed to be familiar with software tools for their industry as well as file management, security, networking, and a variety of other utility software (virus scanners, adware scanners, peripheral drivers). That's quite a daunting requirement!

Finally, new users aren't all gained by chance and intrigue - people are required to use them at work/school/home. While a hobbyist can be reasonably expected to invest time into learning a new craft, it's a completely different story for the average PC user. People expect a PC's to be as intuitive as hammers, yet they also want them, do their taxes, raise their children, and make them tons of $$$ while surfing at home blah spam...

This rant has gone on for far too long, and I fear that it has lost much of its original intent, but if you were able to glean some new understanding or have comments, please feel free to reply!