Friday, July 30, 2010

technology

Benchmarks and Forecasting

I woke up this morning and looked out the window to find a good accumulation of snow on the ground. I was a little surprised. I didn’t remember my local Fox meteorologist, Crystal Egger (pictured) saying anything about an upcoming snow storm. Usually, she gets it pretty right. In fact, if I think back a couple of decades to my childhood, it sure seems that weather forecasting has improved a whole lot. It seems that back in the day, it was a running joke that the weather that we would wind up with was basically the opposite of what the meteorologist would predict.

Of course, like most things, I am sure technology has played a part in the improved accuracy of weather forecasting. Scientists are now able to sample, minute by minute, a myriad of benchmark #’s, from barometric pressure to humidity to minor fluctuations in temperature and furthermore, they are able to summarize this data to create accurate computer models to predict future weather behavior.

If you’re reading this blog, chances are that you’re seeing where I’m gonna go with this..

Managing Technology

M likes to say that, with me, "a new week deserves a new plan". Those that know me will know that I follow my plans with passion but am quite willing to change them on the basis of new information (or inspiration).

This can make me appear less consistent to my stated plans but (inside) I know that I am being rationally consistent to the Prime Directive. Living a satisfying life with meaning.

So here's my plan for managing Technology -- these are extracts from my Personal Top Ten. We'll see how I go. Had a minor slip yesterday when I was busted reading my board.

#4. Limit time spent on activities not on this list
-- Three days per week off-line: while in NZ (Tuesday; Friday and Sunday)
-- Internet surfing only on Wednesday and Saturday // keep a list of topics
-- No new consulting assignments unless they directly benefit this list

#6. Fortnightly retreats from email and telephone calls – done on a quarterly basis
-- Hawaii in April
-- France in June/July
-- Chamonix in December
-- New Zealand in January 2007

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