Julie Barrett is a freelance writer and photographer based in Plano, TX.

Frustrating Friday

Fresh when it gets here from Julie Barrett
Friday, November 12, 2010


I'm preparing for a big meeting this weekend.

In addition, I'm trying to evaluate some portal software for a non-profit. This is a pro bono job. I downloaded the software and installed it to my local web server, then returned to the site to grab some documentation.

Oh, so you want a manual? Please leave all of your contact information. In other words, I'm eventually going to have to talk to a salesperson and explain that no, I do not want to buy their pro software. The  client has no money to buy the pro software. That's why we're evaluating the open source version. And frankly, if I spend an hour looking at this thing and can't figure out how to change the header graphic, how are you going to convince me that this site is easy enough for my client to administer?

So I've wasted the entire afternoon when I could have been doing other things, like eating meals, banging my head against the desk. If I want to learn how to make this stuff work I'm going to have to give up my contact information or go spend $30 on a book.

Thanks for nothing. Open source, my tail end.

Filed under: Technology            

 

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