Get Active!

It is time for Dvorak enthusiasts to speak up as consumers, or we might soon find ourselves stuck with QWERTY once again! Dvorak is an option on virtually every computer, but with the advent of new technologies, the traditional desktop/laptop computer might lose its place as the predominant typing environment. Also, some administrators are refusing to allow users to switch to Dvorak when the option exists. This is especially a problem in schools.

I need your help, if you can give it, to understand how serious these problems really are, and to help ensure Dvorak access for everybody. Here are some key issues:

• Fortress: This is just a utility program, but it typifies the administrative policy of denying access to Dvorak in schools and institutions. I only have a vague idea of how to approach this problem.

• Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs): These have been around for a while, but Dvorak support does not seem to be assured. There are third-party solutions for many Palm OS and Handspring palmtops and at least some older Windows CE handheld PCs.

• Information Appliances: An information appliance is, as I understand it, a "diskless" computer that runs software over the Internet. I know absolutely nothing about how the keyboards on these things work, or if any of the new devices already support Dvorak.

• Digital Set Top Boxes (DSTBs): These things will, as I understand it, provide the user interface to the various interactive features of Digital TV. Again, I know these things have keyboards, but I'm concerned that existing Dvorak solutions might not work on them.

I'd like to hear from people who are familiar with these issues; for example, people involved in DSTB development. We also need people who know something about consumer activism, or who have ideas about how to convince manufacturers and institutions to keep the Dvorak option open. You can E-mail me directly, but I think it would be better if you subscribe to the Alt-Keyboards mailing list and discuss these issues there, so that everybody can get involved. I've long since lost the ability to keep up with everything by myself.

If you know of a new device that does not support Dvorak, I think the most important thing to do is ask the manufacturer about it. They might be able help; if not, at least they'll learn that the Dvorak layout exists, and that people want it. Also, contact the makers of products that do support the Dvorak layout, and let them know you use and appreciate the feature.

If you encounter a school or institution that denies access to Dvorak, I think the best thing is to approach the system administrator and respectfully ask for access. If that fails, escalate to the supervisor, the principle, the school board, etc., always keeping cool and being respectful. (If you're a kid, discuss the problem with your parents first and get their help.) If QWERTY actually causes you discomfort, be sure to state that clearly, but don't threaten. I don't know of any legal basis for demanding access to the Dvorak layout (if you do, let me know).

Before you start, perhaps you should read my Dissenting Opinions page, so you know some of the arguments against Dvorak that you might encounter.

If all else fails and it's a public institution, get involved with your community's political system and try to find others who support your view. Whatever happens, get on alt-keyboards and let us know how it goes.

BTW: I'm new at this activism thing, so if there's anything else I should have here please let me know. Thanks!

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