18 September 2012

Phone Five Frenzy

I have claimed to emulate Groucho Marx's adage: "I wouldn't want to belong to any club that would have me as a member." Now what has overcome me?

Two days ago, I took my place in line for the iPhone 5. At the moment, the image to the left approximates my current status.

This has been an interesting journey. Years ago, I was in a facilities management position, where I had to be forewarned in the expected development of a unionized labor strike; and managers, like me, were expected to instantly react to the event. I was FORCED to get my first cell phone. Only a year or so previously, I had been FORCED to get a pager. I called them both electronic leashes, and bristled at the intrusion.

Time marched on, and all my staff started to clamor for phones. This, after I had FORCED them to wear pagers.  Now, we can't imagine living unhooked. My Graphic Designer wife said "Without a smart phone, I'm feel like I'm falling behind in technology." What has become of us?

Two days ago, I was on a long distance bike ride. I had a list of turn directions, but was soon confronted by a sign that said the upcoming bridge was closed - twenty miles from the car, and no idea where I was. I had a cell phone with me to call for help if forced to, but wished I had a mapping app to get me the heck out of there. No way, Jose'. I was lucky to flag down another local cyclist for guidance.

Now, we're waiting for business/pleasure salvation - with a new "Share Everything" plan, and two smart phones on the way. Not only will we have two electronic leashes to wrestle, but two years of commitment to rationalize the self-inflicted choice.

Are we better at our jobs, or have we have we been peer-pressured into Groucho's club?