There is a part of your computer that hasn't changed in its basic design in over 150 years. That's a great accomplishment in today's ever changing technology-driven society.
The standard keyboard - known as the Qwerty keyboard - has been around for over 150 years, ever since the invention of the typewriter. The odd arrangement of the letters isn't based on psychology, efficiency or ergonomics, but on mechanics. Frequently typed letters had to be separated to prevent the keys from jamming, and that's why E, A and I are randomly scattered around the keyboard.
The main alternative to the Qwerty layout is the Dvorak keyboard, an alternative layout where the most common letters are placed on the middle row. Looking at the Dvorak layout, it just makes sense to me - the letters are actually arranged in alphabetical order (see photo). In fact, the world record in typing speed was achieved with a Dvorak unit.
Alternative keyboards have also been designed for users with disabilities - even for one handed typists (left and right handed), and a host of ergonomic keyboards are also available on the market, but the standard Qwerty design remains the industry leader.
For those proponents of traditional touch typing (as compared to the "hunt and peck" method), there is even an "extreme" Qwerty design. Das Keyboard, manufactured by Metadot Corp., has no markings - the keys are completely blank (see photo). The Das Keyboard would invoke panic in most users, but the manufacturer claims that "within a few short weeks users increase their typing accuracy and find themselves typing up to 100% faster".
Until voice recognition technology is perfected, it's doubtful that the standard Qwerty keyboard will become obsolete or be replaced.
For graduates of typing and keyboarding classes, and speedy 4-finger typists, it's reassuring that some things stay the same in spite of technological advances.
internet web site design|custom web site design|web site design kansas city
If you are ready to develop a
professional website for your
company, create an effective
office intranet, or have custom
application development needs,
call Wild-Webs at 913-780-3400.
