the abbreviated reign of “neon” leon spinks

KNOW “HELPFUL” FROM “ANNOYING” 193
Clippy-bashing Web site’s launch, it drew 22 million visitors. Clippy may
have failed in his intended function, but he turned out to be a useful de-
vice for viral marketing, the cutting-edge communication technique that
aims to manipulate the audience into spreading the message about a prod-
uct themselves, via word-of-mouth buzz. Every joke about the character
being fired reminded consumers that a new, improved version of Offi ce
was available.
By the time Gates gave a 2005 interview to Infoworld, an industry
publication, the Microsoft chieftain was actually spinning Clippy’s demotion
as an example of the company’s efforts to improve the user experience,
and calling it “one of the most exciting things we did.”
RECIPE FOR DISASTER
Stewed Computer User
Ingredients
1 complicated package of business software
1 personal computer
1 of fice
worker under deadline pressure
1 irksome animated character
Dollop of useless advice
Place of fice
worker under deadline pressure,
computer, and software in a small cubicle. Let simmer.
Toss in irksome animated character. Add useless advice
until the mixture reaches boiling point. Serve while
steaming.