Friday, July 31, 2009

Testing New Version of Writing Application

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I'm currently Alpha testing the latest version of a writing program that helps users write faster and spell correctly. I've been using this software for 10 years and I have been a Beta tester throughout this period. Now, for the first time, I'm an Alpha tester.

I learned that Alpha testing comes before Beta testing. It is when the author needs some users of the commercial version of the program to use the "work-in-progress" upgrade and report problems and request features for the new version.

This testing and the Beta testing that I have done has given me the opportunity to get my suggestions included in the software. That means that it is customized to how I want the software to work. Alpha testing is very time-consuming, but very rewarding.

I use this program every day for my writing because it is a great productivity tool.

Bill
RapidWriter123@gmail.com

Sunday, February 22, 2009

Abbreviation Expansion Presentation I Gave in September, 2000

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I recently came across the following announcement for a presentation I gave in September, 2000. It was associated with my profile on ZoomInfo. It's amazing how the internet retains information and then organizes it. ZoomInfo is a recent creation, yet it picked-up this newsletter article from years ago.

The presentation I gave pertains to a great productivity tool that I use in writing. With it, a minimium number of keystrokes produces much, much more on the screen. It expands a user-defined abbreviation (that I previously set-up) into a word, phrase, paragraph, or document that was associated with the abbreviation. I have even developed creative ways to use the software that go way beyond the basics of the program. I use this software in every application that I use. It even checks my spelling in every application, therefore, I'm not limited to the spell checking when I'm using MS Office. I turn off the spell checker in MS Office.

If you are interested in learning more about abbreviation expansion, or speedwriting, and this software, please send me an email to RapidWriter123@gmail.com 

Greater Cleveland PC Users Group Web Page - [Cached Version]
Published on: 1/31/2001 Last Visited: 7/19/2002 

Please welcome GCPCUG members Dave Pfeil, H.F.E.S, president of Ergonomically Correct LLC, and Bill Deutchman, CPA, who together have volunteered their time and energy to present a program on these compelling topics. 
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Bill will point out why a utility program that expands user defined abbreviations can be a valuable input tool, especially when other technologies such as voice recognition or scanning aren't feasible, practical, or accessible. 

Abbreviation expansion can also be helpful for people with physical impairments who use a keyboard with difficulty, or for keyboarders who type using the hunt & peck method. Bill calls the use of a tool such as abbreviation expansion "working smarter, not harder" and has adopted the motto "save time, save torque"; he points out that reducing keystrokes also helps minimize computer stress injuries. Bill will offer strategies for users at different levels -- light, heavy, and power -- and he'll share suggestions for remembering abbreviations. 

At our September 9th general meeting, count on gaining information to help you feel more comfortable at the keyboard and more productive with your computer, both for work and play.Please enjoy your Labor Day weekend, and then plan to join us on Saturday, September 9th, 2000! 

Copyright © 2000 GCPCUG.

www.wddcpa.com for your tax and accounting needs

Saturday, February 21, 2009

Word Oddities

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It amazes me that the word "abbreviation" is such a long word. When you consider the definition of abbreviation, then why in the world should the word be 12 letters long? I suppose this can be added to the list of oxymorons, which includes "jumbo shrimp."

I'm also surprised that the word "phonics" begins with the letters "ph" instead of the letter "f." Again, when you consider the definition of the word, it doesn't make sense. One definition of phonics is "a method of training beginning readers to associate letters with their sound values." Once again, we have an example of English spelling that is illogical, making it harder to spell than it needs to be.

These are just a couple examples that suggest that writing English can benefit from reform, or simplification. This will help children and those learning English as a second language to learn the language faster. Realistically, I don't expect this to occur any time soon.

I have a solution, though.

RapidWriter123@gmail.com

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

English: You Can Speak It But Can You Spell It ???

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I have determined that the English language is much easier to speak than it is to spell. There is a real need for reform (simplification), but it is unlikely to happen.

Why do I say this? I have found that a long time ago Mark Twain and George Bernard Shaw both wanted a simplified version of English writing.

I have a solution.

RapidWriter123@gmail.com