Jim Forbes: Convertible Computing–What Works and What’s Needed

Rob, on his way out the door to Redmond for the Global MVP Summit, posted about how his use of his Tablet PC has evolved and it is generating a great discussion in the comments to that post. In a related vein, I came across this recent post by Jim Forbes. It is a great article called Convertible Computing—What Works and What’s Needed that lays out his perspective on just what the title says. Here’s a snippet from his introduction that I think many will find some agreement with:

if you need an example of an ironclad bond between a user and their machine, look closely at tablet computer users. In my case, along with true persistent wireless connectivity it’s literally changed how I view personal computing.  My tablet, a Lenovo X60 convertible notebook, is the first thing I pack when I leave my house.  Leave my shaving gear at home? It happens. Forget to pack enough undershirts?  JC Penney’s is a nationwide chain, so that’s not a problem either. Leave my power supply in my car? Well, I regularly get six hours of battery life out of my beloved X60, so I’ll get by until a kinsmen can overnight the power supply to me.

Jim always tells it likes it is (or at least tells it like he sees it), and his thoughts on what works and what doesn’t are, in my opinion, pretty much right on the money. Give it a read. You’ll be glad you did.

Check out our earlier Audio InkShow interview with Jim Forbes.