You, Technology and the Club

peedee replied on 16/02/2020 10:15

Posted on 16/02/2020 10:15

If you have access to the Clubs web site you are using the internet and so have some type of technology at your fingertips whether it be a tablet, smart phone or home computer. Judging by the posts on here about WiFi, many also like to take some kind of portable computing device with them along with sat navs on their travels.  However, there seems to be a reluctance to use these devices to their full potential which is indicated by posts requesting duplication and paper copies of information. This gives the impression some are still clinging on to old technology instead of using their computing devices to better effect.

The internet offers quick and easy access to information via search engines, site finder, mapping and routing web sites some of which you can even customise to suit your own requirements on or off line. In addition, and in response to requests from members, we have seen Club site WiFi upgrades and the introduction of Club site finder and magazine Apps all in the interests of offering even easier access to information.

So, if you have the equipment, why do you still prefer to stick with the old methods of accessing Club information which in my view causes the Club unnecessary expense?

If you do make use of technology on your travels what tips do you have for other members which might be of benefit to them?

peedee

DavidKlyne replied on 16/02/2020 12:38

Posted on 16/02/2020 12:38

I suppose it could depend on your style of touring and how much of it is planned and how much is on an ad hoc basis. Certainly in the UK our touring is much more the former so everything in terms of sites is preplanned. I also do much of the research on what we might do during our stay online before we go. I use Google Earth to check out the location of sites and I find Street View very useful to give me a visualization of how to find the site. So from my point of view printed information is not so important. Certainly have never found the need for grid references or paper maps beyond my A to Z road Atlas. Not having an internet signal or phone signal can be a frustration because we are used to it on a daily basis and it seems strange not to have it!!!

David

Tinwheeler replied on 16/02/2020 12:46

Posted on 16/02/2020 12:46

It’s clear there is a place for both technology and paper in all this. Technology is wonderful but has limitations so back up with a road atlas and the likes of the club handbook make sense to my mind.

There are many places in the UK where no phone signal, or a voice/text only service, exists. The mobile data network coverage is improving all the time so maybe one day paper will be redundant for those of us prepared to use the techie option but, until then, it’s belt and braces for me.

replied on 16/02/2020 13:04

Posted on 16/02/2020 13:04

The user and all related content has been Deleted User

Takethedogalong replied on 16/02/2020 13:06

Posted on 16/02/2020 13:06

You get a digital download with most OS paper maps nowadays. OH has all of UK OS subscription, which he uses a lot.

I find I can relate distances, surroundings, terrain better looking at a paper map, rather than a small screen, but that’s just a personal preference. Maps are like books for me, I love the feel, scale and detail of them. It’s more than the practical application. 

viatorem replied on 16/02/2020 15:53

Posted on 16/02/2020 15:53

 It's very exasperating trying to plan a multiple stop trip online. I find the book and map much quicker. However for checking access and routing the online approach does work. If only the online references used the same CL numbers as the paperwork...

replied on 16/02/2020 15:57

Posted on 16/02/2020 15:57

For me the site map is an essential piece of kit at the planning stage when going on a trip.

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