Being in IT for much of the time before transitioning into an educator, we used to talk about a lot on the issues facing information processing including information overload, over-engineering a task because of information and leading into paralysis by analysis.
Ushering into 21st century, I found that all of them are not only true but also have increased in pace with which a lot of us have to deal appropriately. My personal roller coaster ride in trying to salvage my laptop from disaster will throw some light on this and may help other entangled in a similar situation.
When I googled my issue, I saw many are out there like me looking for solutions, providing solutions and in doing so, taking me invariably through the maze of possible solutions that have increasingly become more mind boggling than a maze runner could imagine.
My goals were simple: extract my personal files out of the laptop or locate the problem and find a suitable solution – all by myself; not having the skills required to achieve my goals; and, purely dependent on the information that is available online and in abundance via user discussions, forums, support sites and knowledge sites to achieve my goals.
Can this be done from scratch? Will it save money? Will it save time? Will I be able to help others through my experience? If yes to all, what basic skills are necessary to begin this attempt?
After visiting several repair shops, I had my target. The effort will be worth if I can save at least $100 and if I can get it done within three weeks. I succeeded and I want to share that success with you.
Watch this space – I will unlock the door for you to join me in my ride of ecstasies and agonies that I went through to learn something new, completely from scratch and realizing that this will be a good model for many to learn something new from scratch – I mean anything!