PC Tablets

This photo triggers the idea of handwritten notes for your documents, spreadsheets or presentations which could be saved along with the so-called "electronic" file. But have you ever tried writing with a PC stylus? The results look like the work of a 5-year old don't they? Maybe there's a 2010 solution in the works somewhere (fingers crossed).

Permacolor Frames

Ever wondered why metal frames other than silver and gold are only plated in a colour? Why can't the metal itself be black, or blue or green or red? There should be a process for that, so your frames never peel or fade (without costing an extra $200 of course).

Inexpensive Digital Cameras

With more features, functions and flexibility than any camera had 10 years ago, these Almost Perfect ones are relegated to runner-up positions in the "Pro Photography" rankings. If you could pick a better term than "budget" or “prosumer” for cameras like these, what would it be?

2009 and beyond

We're gathering new items and preparing wider commentary on product management for January 2009. Some new features are already in place on this page such as "Where do Product Managers come from?"and "Insider Perspectives" which describe the specialty and its methodology. 'Retail Product Management' is a course offered by CariMEC in Barbados.

The Dispenser Fridge

True, ice trays never worked well and everyone would forget to refill the water bottles but are automatic dispensers really better? Of course they are. Just as long as you remember ice first then liquid, there's no auto shut-off for the ice maker, replace the water filter when the light goes red, ice cubes can block the water dispenser's flow and both switches occasionally get stuck in the 'off' position. Some careful attention can fix that. Now, if only refrigerators were rust-proof!

Utility, Style and Design

Many citations of the efficiency of automobile design can be found, especially in praise of the internal combustion engine. Cars have long been well designed in engineering terms, in ways adaptable enough to keep that aspect Almost Perfect, which leaves a lot of opportunity for stylistic variety. This article on the way doors operate is worth a read.

Utility - Is it ever enough?

A write-up in Men's Health asks "what good is a bottle-opener if it takes 5 minutes to find?" and recommends one "multitool" by virtue of its limited set of components. 'Nuff said. For the rest of us, utility increases with range and scope and compact design avoids carting around a well-stocked toolbox when a lightweight, full-featured set of options is desired. 5 minutes is worth knowing "it's in there somewhere!"