The Bike Shed
459: Paper Data Structures with Sally Hall
Apr 15, 2025
Sally Hall, a Thoughtbot expert with a master's in information science, joins Joël to dive into the fascinating world of paper vs. digital data structures. They explore how historical systems like the Dewey Decimal System shaped our understanding of data organization. The conversation reveals the serendipitous joys of analog systems compared to the efficiency of digital searches. There's also a deep dive into biases inherent in classification, and an appreciation for classic tools like the Rolodex in data management. It's a fun and enlightening discussion on information access!
42:20
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Quick takeaways
- The contrast between paper data structures and digital equivalents illustrates how analog systems effectively organized and retrieved information long before computers existed.
- A user-focused design in information science enhances software development by ensuring solutions meet real-world needs rather than just technical efficiency.
Deep dives
Rediscovering the Joy of Physical Books
Engaging with physical paper books allows for a deeper, more focused reading experience compared to audiobooks. The tactile sensation and distinct smell of paper books can enhance concentration, minimizing distractions that often occur with multitasking while listening to audiobooks. Historical fiction often uncovers intricate human narratives that go beyond mere dates and events, making it a compelling genre for those who previously found traditional history uninteresting. Authors like Ken Follett, known for epic trilogies, provide immersive stories that reveal the richer textures of historical life.
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