RE: Can software have human attributes?

["David Berg" <dberg -at- dmpnet -dot- com>]

Bruce Byfield wrote:
> Rather than looking for an authority to cite, I suggest you take a
> common sense approach to the question. Ask yourself:
>
> - what is wrong with personifying software? Does it mislead users or
> misrepresent what is happening?
>
> - are readers likely to be confused by the personification?
>
> - does using personification make the content clearer or express it in
> simpler language?

And don't for get the "other" questions we need to be sure we have straight.

*  Is the software eating your brain?

*  If you compile the code backwards will the software instruct me to kneel
facing Seattle to pray and give offerings?

*  Are you worried that your documentation won't respect you in the morning?

If you answer Yes to any of these questions, refer to the appendix of the
style guide for instructions on arranging private therapy.

David Berg


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