Product Vs. Service

#ldsconf

I tried a new experience this past general conference.  I followed the twitter conversation on the #ldsconf hashtag.  It was really interesting to see the different viewpoints being expressed.  Honestly, the most interesting and though-provoking part was the comments from those contrary to the speakers.  It wasn't that I necessarily agreed with their comments, but it was really nice to have that different perspective.  When we know what both sides of the coin look like it is often much easier to make a decision.

Women do not often find themselves studying computer science.  Plenty of reasons contribute to the lack of the female gender in these programs including a inadequate social structure for women.  Professionals and teachers are rarely female, and there is little female peers.  There are, however, plenty of men to fill the dating pool of single females, but, in the words of a female computer scientist, "The Odds are good, but the Goods are odd." A significant effort is being made to change this with female-centered clubs and events for women. I feel that this underlying social structure will be the key to attracting more women into the field of computer science.

Connecting non-members and members has always been a challenge.  This applies to any club, organization, business, or religion.  It is key to pair users of a product to non-users.  Their experience must shape the perception of non-users in order to influence new member. The ubiquitous nature of the internet is diminishing this problem.  It is much easier for members to share their good or bad experiences with a massive audience of non-members.