It's not your computer

2006-12-04

When things aren't right in IT, it can be quite difficult to put your finger on exactly what is wrong. A week or so ago, a helpful blogger put a clip from The Office on Youtube, relating to how IT and the business relate. I've never been a great fan of The Office, partially because I find it a too-painful reminder of certain past experiences... but this particular scene absolutely summed up one of the things we're up against. Here's the transcript:

“What you doing with my computer?” “It’s not your computer is it? It’s Wernham Hogg’s.” “Right. What you doing with Wernham Hogg’s computer?” “You don’t need to know.” “No I don’t need to know but could you tell me anyway?” “I’m installing a firewall.” “OK what’s that?” “It protects your computer against script kiddies, data collectors, viruses, worms and trojan horses and it limits you’re outbound internet communications. Any more questions?” “Yes. How long will it take?” “Why? Do you want to do it yourself?” “No, I can’t do it myself. How long will it take you out of interest?” “It will take as long as it takes.” “Right, er, how long did it take last time when-” “It’s done.” “Right thank you.” “Now I’m gonna switch it off, when it comes back on it’ll ask you to hit yes, no or cancel. Hit cancel. Do not hit yes or no.” “Right.” “Did you hear what I said?” “Yep.” “What did I say?” “Hit cancel.” “Good.” “Thanks.”

Priceless. If anyone can now find the original clip, I'll put that up as well.