Well at least that first line was. I discovered that a Dvorak typeset can be used on any computer. Dvorak is a keyboard organization that aligns the most used letters the home row line.
That's right, there is a better configuration than QWERTY. Back in the day when typewriters were used the Dvorak was used. Then it was replaced because, get this, it was too efficient!! Typers were crawling over the keyboard so fast that the hammers would get stuck and jam on one another.
Over the years the QWERTY keyboard became the standard for typewriters and so when the transition to computers came the slowing effects of the qwerty had been somewhat overcome so people could still make quality use.
This is a great example of how technology and user studies can affect our landscape of products. What would have been if our keyboards were reassessed after the silicone revolution? Would there be less carpal tunnel cases? Would typing have a easier learning curve? Would this have changed how texting (SMS) developed?
I will be trying the Dvorak keyboard occasionally to see if there is a benefit. Read more about the alternate keyboard arrangement online.
