On 10/15/05 1:17 AM, "Scott Rossi" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
> IMO, the use of templates/themes is not an attempt to discourage thinking > outside the box. It is an attempt to illuminate the fact that there is, in > fact, a box present, which has certain properties and rules, and one must > learn the limitations of the box before one can learn to think outside it. > > What you may see as "dumbing down", others may see as education. I agree. 'Defining what the box is' is a valuable first step. Someone who has a vague concept does not have a working tool. I can't imagine beginning architecture students who have no understanding of structures and functions and failures since they has been surrounded by them all their life. >From this basic understanding, they can develop a working knowledge of building design, then go beyond. In the world of computers, using a collection of software to function adequately in a business capacity is an end in its own. No need/desire for the user to go beyond and explore or maximize the experience. I feel one of the huge drawbacks to most computer programs is that they are so intricate and layered that the average user avoids the complexity and uses less than 1% of its capability. Frustration abounds in the workplace for more than one reason, and computer systems that rapidly evolve are too much of a challenge. Simplification is oh so welcome. One button = print full glorious color with accurate margins and cartridges that cost $5... requiring only 5 seconds of our time. To think outside the box, one must know the box, or not care about the box. Of course, the concept that "to think outside the box, one must become the box" is whole 'nuther level of philosophy. I am definitely in favor of templates. I am in favor of allowing those who want/need/are addicted to going beyond to have tremendous freedom to do so and share with the world. That could actually be one of the definitions of this list. Universities - love what they provide - ivory tower thinking and research that will direct the future. Business world - love the field of operation that brings life to ideas and dreams, distributes them, and employs millions of people. And now back to one of the many boxes on my desk and in my head. Jim Ault Las Vegas _______________________________________________ use-revolution mailing list [email protected] Please visit this url to subscribe, unsubscribe and manage your subscription preferences: http://lists.runrev.com/mailman/listinfo/use-revolution
