Yes, this is a somewhat tricky issue. The correct answer to the girl might be "Yes, I have that keyboard - and you can too FOR FREE!" *teeth sparkling in the sun*. Haha. I think that most people with enough computer training to reach this site should be able to grasp the concept of keyboard layout mappings, but you're still right: Some won't, and at any rate we need to find the best words to ease people into an understanding.
Stressing the "free" and "no new equipment (really) needed" part even more on the intro pages is a good idea I think. Maybe Shai will look into that.
But furthermore, I think we need to look into acceptable ways of getting our beloved layout in physical form for those who want it that way. For Shai and me, and probably for most of the current users, leaving the old QWERTY labels in place (or using a blank board instead) may be the best option after all. But to be honest, I'm starting to want my own keys "properly" labeled. If for nothing else, then so my young daughters will grow up with Colemak! They look at the keyboard and type what they see there of course.
[Edit: Keyboard modding considerations moved to a new topic in the Technical forum]
The moment we have a really good physical board solution, the world will take us a bit more seriously. This effect should not be underestimated I think. To many users, the hardware is more than just a means to accessing the software. We who live "inside the box" must not forget that many users aren't quite there, and must see the box to trust its existence.
Last edited by DreymaR (22-May-2007 22:53:12)
