Alberto Polintan's Blog


Precursor to Touch Screens
December 9, 2009, 12:01 pm
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I love TED as a source of inspiration. The presenters are experts in their field or have an inkling of greatness.

Here’s a touch screen presentation made in February of 2006. Enjoy.



Seen on the train today: fake book cover
November 11, 2008, 9:32 pm
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I saw a fellow passenger use a sheet of newspaper as a book cover, effectively obscuring the title.

There are two curious things here:
- the mystery about the title is intriguing; is it a trashy novel or is she trying to protect the book
- the sheet of newspaper is in Polish. Other than the possibility that the reader is of that origin, the novelty of the accents and illegibility of the text suggests more about the reader than the true title ever would

Is this a new trend?



Seen and heard on the train today
September 15, 2008, 10:17 pm
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Melbourne has a public transport crisis. With high fuel prices and a burgeoning population, the public transport system is struggling to cope.
On the 8:09 today:
- a politician (not sure if governing or opposition) shows up with a camera, interviews people, asking about their thoughts on the over-crowdedness and the increase in violence, particularly at night
- this happens throughout the 45 minute journey, all the while the train gets more and more crowded

I wonder, is this the best way to engender faith in the system? Would people be more honest if they are being put on the spot by a politician with a video camera in your face? Does the party gain points for this seeming act of proactivity?

My thoughts: do proper research, invite people for their comments (at the main station), use professionals. The goal is to get the product right and not appear to be political points scoring.



What the?!
August 28, 2008, 10:48 pm
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I saw this at a train station on the way to work. For those who don’t know who Shane Warne is, see hereand here.
I’m not sure who they would attract to this. Would sports fans really want to see a musical? Would this attract theatre goers? Whose bright idea was this?



Targeted Marketing
August 20, 2008, 12:59 pm
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Look what I got from my mobile carrier today. It’s a great ploy – you remember why you got the phone in the first place and they give you a little gift to make sure you keep on using your unit.
Great stuff!



The service we don’t get
August 18, 2008, 10:28 pm
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In Australia, the two largest supermarket chains dominate the grocery market, with something like 90% share. As such, I think they get away with some sub-standard service.
Case in point, I went to pick up some fresh coriander and both just didn’t have a single leaf. It’s an out of stock that just shouldn’t happen.



Pity.
June 27, 2008, 12:35 pm
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I know it’s the largest and most recognized city in the country. Statistically, it would pull more tourists. Surely Apple should have chosen a better place to build the store.

See here



Hello world!
June 18, 2008, 12:35 pm
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