Many of you that follow my blogs know that almost 2 years ago, I purchased one of the first Kindles sold. Since that time, I have written articles on the Kindle, and electronic books in general. Since I am on my third one already, I feel qualified to comment on what I see developing in general.
My love of the publishing & book industries has led me to believe, perhaps somewhat biased, that the printed book would survive just fine, thank you. Recent developments have convinced me otherwise.
Technology, AND THE WAY WE NOW EMBRACE IT, has developed so quickly, that the product has far surpassed anticipated improvements. Accordingly, I believe the hardbound book, as we know it, is in some difficulty. Yes, it will survive, and it will always play a role, but a diminished one. Just like the checkbook, letter writing, & movie theatres.
Reasons are: 1) It's easier than ever to comfortably read & navigate. 2) Downloads come in about 10 seconds, after 1 click. 3) At $9.99, I was among the very first to have Dan Brown's new book, The Lost Symbol, at a $20+ savings over the bookstore price. 4) Being able to adjust the font size is a key for middle-aged & up folks who buy a good share of the hard bound books. 5) It is lighter & smaller than most hard bounds, easier to take on trips, and doesn't require but a fraction of the space your expanding library might. I could go on, especially regarding the technical end, but you get it, as I do.
There is a glimmer, however, and I don't pretend Amazon isn't smart enough to fix this problem, but there is a current flaw that is slowing the process: Quality control & Customer Service, or the lack thereof.
Recently my second Kindle locked up, crashed, or whatever. Being reasonably competent on-line, I went to Amazon's website to either report the problem, or find a number to call. It took me about 20 minutes to find the phone number after my effort failed to find a way on-line. Obviously, they do not want you to know their customer service number. We who feed them are a problem for them. Not very impressive.
After my service person and I determined it was unusable, they agreed to send me another on for $99 + shipping & handling. Hmmmmmn, after spending $399 (well above what it needs to be), it did not set well to spend another $100. But, oh well, these things happen and let's move forward.
In a few days I had my new one, charged it overnight, and then could not get it unlocked & released to me even after scrolling through the tutorial again. Another call to customer service got that fixed, but where was my library of books from the old one? Oh, they have to be transferred and that takes another call. Finally, after about 10 days, I had it back and functioning after missing my entire cruise trip vacation with it lifeless in my suitcase.
Enough of my whining, but someone better wake up at Amazon or this might take a long time.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment