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Keeping it simple is not an easy task for technology firms

Article Abstract:

It remains difficult to develop technology products that are simple to use. Even those with simple designs and easy-to-use interfaces become complicated when customer support is unavailable. Palm Computing's Pilot electronic organizer is a good example. The $299 Pilot fits into a shirt pocket and stores such information as an electronic address book, calendar and note pad. The Pilot can be connected to a PC and all data is synchronized, whether changes were made on the organizer or the PC. Problems arise when attempting to use a Pilot with Starfish Software's Sidekick organizer software. Palm Computing's brochure gives Starfish's phone number, but the company does not offer links to the Pilot. The user is referred back to Palm Computing, where a caller is immediately sent back to Starfish. CompuServe's Wow online service is touted as simple to use and targeted for novice computer users and children. Use of the product is complicated by software bugs and a lack of technical support.

Usage, Column, Technology overview, Technology, Customer service, User need, End users

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Cable-equipment firms get medicine needed to boost profits from upgrades

Article Abstract:

Cable-equipment suppliers improved their 2nd qtr 1998 finances thanks to the introduction of cable modems, digital video and other new services in the US. The gains countered setbacks in satellite data and international markets. The industry also should benefit from upgrading their systems with digital technology, according to Merrill Lynch. An example is General Instrument's current sale of approximately 12 million set-top boxes to Tele-Communications (TCI). Merrill Lynch said General Instrument shipped around 350,000 boxes in the 2nd qtr 1998, compared to approximately 300,000 in the 1st qtr 1998. TCI's equipment spending is expected to double from 1997 to 1998, according to Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities. Other companies discussed include NextLevel Systems, Next Level Communications, Antec and Scientific-Atlanta.

Radio & TV communications equipment, Radio and Television Broadcasting and Wireless Communications Equipment Manufacturing, CATV Equipment, Finance, Forecasts and trends, Internet services, Industry trend, Cable television, Cable television/data services, Cable television equipment

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