Is there anything that actually gets users to fix their computers?

Sat Oct 4 00:02:49 UTC 2003

Daniel Karrenberg wrote:

> There is that too; but I have frequently observed people not doing it 
> even when provided detailed step-by-step instructions. On the 
> other hand
> they would proceed relatively quickly once "it stopped working", 
> e.g. the Internet plug was pulled. Some of them would use the 
> instructions
> provided, others would get help; but not before "it stopped owrking".

Indeed.  It seems to be a motivation problem.  

"Also, using the net registering system we posted a virus alert and made
information available," said Cunningham. "Most people probably skipped
through it though."

Obviously, this is by no means specific to computer patching.  People
are either "busy", lazy, apathetic, etc.  Most don't pay attention until
they're forced to; i.e., when their system stops working because a virus
broke it or because their network access is shut off.  You can ask
nicely or post warnings a billion times to no avail.  Human nature,
perhaps.

-Terry