Technology is part of most people's lives these days, and of course, it's ever-changing. With smartphones, apps, smartwatches, smart TVs, laptops, desktop computers, tablets, streaming films, streaming music, online banking and online shopping, there is a lot to get to grips with, and that's just for starters. It can be bewildering at times even if you have been brought up with technology. If you haven't it can be overwhelming.
As a full-time blogger, with two blogs, this one and Fly Drive Explore that I write with my husband, and a YouTube channel, I've had to get to grips with spreadsheets, web design, online banking, video creation, photo apps and social media. Even for someone with an I.T. degree like me, it's a lot to take in. Imagine if you weren't brought up with technology? It must be hard to ask for help without feeling silly. Well, the Post Office Broadband digital drop-in sessions run in conjunction with Google Digital Garage can help you out.
Post Office Broadband decided to run these workshops after completing research on over 4000 people. The main results were 73 % of people would like to improve their tech skills, with over a fifth struggling to use everyday devices such as smartphones and apps.
Post Office Broadband decided to run these workshops after completing research on over 4000 people. The main results were 73 % of people would like to improve their tech skills, with over a fifth struggling to use everyday devices such as smartphones and apps.
The session in Cardiff was based in the Central Libray next to John Lewis, a five-floor state of the art library. Lily from the Post Office team was there to welcome everyone as well as the Google guys and fellow bloggers Kaz from Ickle Pickles Life and Alina from We Made This Life.
Immediately I was impressed with how welcoming and friendly everyone was, and it wasn't long before people were walking in asking for advice. With lots of tea, coffee, biscuits and help we worked together to help solve problems and put the world to rights!
Some themes seemed to appear a number of times. People often lack confidence when they try new technology and are afraid of doing something wrong. I guess not being afraid of doing things wrong is one way of learning - trying out different methods to find a solution and developing your problem-solving skills.
For example, if you want to find out information, Google can be the font of knowledge but look at the authority of the site Google directs you to - is that site trusted and respected? You would feel confident in having health advice from the NHS website but not from a health website with no obvious credentials and that you hadn't heard of.
I enjoyed talking to a lady called Jennifer. She wanted advice about her email as she had been hacked. The Google staff worked with her to help set up another email and advised her on what to do with passwords and security, never divulging her password and always signing out when using a shared computer.
Sometimes the Google guys couldn't help with an issue but pointed the customers in the right direction. One such lady had a problem with her Ipad and iPhone not syncing and the Google digital staff helped her by writing down the issue for her to take to the Apple store.
They were brilliant in dealing with people of different levels of competence in I.T. From a man who wanted to upskill his I.T. skills for a job and someone who had his own online business, to someone who wanted to know how to use apps on their phone, or write basic emails.
Nothing really was a silly question, and with patience and an understanding of technology from basic issues to the more advanced knowledge, they helped people and were never condescending.
The customers really seemed to enjoy the experience and trust the Post Office brand and this conjunction with Google.
The next session is in Norwich and if you think this would appeal to you register here, for any upcoming sessions. The Post Office Broadband team would like to hold these free sessions on a regular basis up and down the country and if they get enough interest then they most definitely will.
Do you know of anyone who would benefit from this service? Do you have any issues with technology?
*PR collaboration
I think these sessions are great making it more accessible for everyone and especially as they are free
ReplyDeleteI love that they are free!
DeleteThis is great for a lot of people who don't understand technology or need help with it. It's a good look on these two well known businesses
ReplyDeleteI think people feel reassured that they are two well known and trusted names running these workshops.
DeleteThis sounds like such a great idea for people! I love they are open to helping anyone and everyone no matter the size of issue they are having!
ReplyDeleteAnyone can pop in, it doesn't matter what level of knowledge you have, it's open to everyone and no one makes you feel silly for asking a question.
DeleteThis is such a fab idea, I know my Mum would benefit from this - I am tech support at the moment
ReplyDeleteMy mother-in-law would too!
DeleteThis is such a great idea for those who need that extra bit of help with technology, I know a few people who would benefit from this x
ReplyDeleteThere are a large number of people that would really benefit from this I think.
DeleteI really love these schemes, as it is all about community and inclusion. Making sure people are tech savvy x
ReplyDeleteIt is and you can feel left behind if you don't have access to technology.
DeleteThis sounds like a great opportunity for those needing digital support.
ReplyDeleteI agree Angela.
DeleteThese sound like a fantastic idea! I've heard lots of people talking about them.
ReplyDeleteHopefully they will be able to run more in the future
DeleteIt is such a great service - I had a brilliant time. It was so good to see you too. I hope they are able to hold more of these sessions. Kaz
ReplyDeleteI hope so too Kaz.
Deletesuch a fab idea and I'm so glad it's been established as it will help many!
ReplyDeleteYes I agree.
DeleteWhat a great idea, getting people used to technology, that otherwise would shun away.
ReplyDeleteI think so too.
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