Shiny Things - March 31st, 2008

09:32 am - Handheld Computers Endanger 2010 US Census

The 2010 US census has become the most expensive ever, costing $11 billion. A big part of that expense was preparing handheld computers for census agents. However, the computers are proving too complex for many temporary census agents to use. Combined with difficulties in transmitting the large amounts of generated data, the bureau may be forced to revert to paper-and-pencil technology in order to get the census completed on time. (CNN.com)

The most telling quote in the article was from a spokesman for the computer's manufacturer: "After you spend about 30 minutes to an hour familiarizing yourself with it, it's as easy to use as a modern cell phone." No wonder the agents couldn't figure it out!