Investing money on the latest gadgets comes easily to Peter Harrison, CEO of GlobalLogic, who confesses that he sometimes tends to buy gadgets in a hurry without fully understanding the utility. “It happens when you are addicted to technology,” he says.
Do you depend on your gadgets for everything?
Yes, I depend on it a lot. For example, I keep a digital record of every business card I’ve ever been given. Today, I have over 10,000 entries in my address book.
Many of them date back to 1988. Though many people’s contact details have changed over the years but still, for someone like me, with a bad memory for names, it’s very convenient to depend on my digital diary for details of people whom I’ve met more than 20 years ago.
Have you ever purchased a gadget that could not justify its worth later?
I am a gadget freak and often buy them just because they look good, and boast of cutting edge technology. For instance, I bought an Apple Newton some time ago. Its handwriting recognition software, however, was very poor and now it’s an expensive paperweight in my office.
How much time do you invest in understanding and mastering a gadget?
Since my first gadget was Sinclair Z80, one of the earliest home computers that I bought in 1978, mastering the latest breed of gadgets has been relatively easy. I remember struggling for weeks to master the technology of Sinclair Z80. On the contrary, it took me just a day to master the Apple iPhone.
Do you usually end up helping people master their gadgets?
Yes, I do. I’m, in fact, the official technology expert for my family and many friends. From installing Wi-Fi networks, to helping them understand their gizmos, I do it all.
What would be a perfect gizmo gift to give to a friend?
I have recently taken to giving my family and friends a camera and microphone to mount on their computers/laptops. Considering many of my friends live in different countries, it’s a great way to stay connected.
Have you had any embarrassing moments while exhibiting your gadgets?
Being of British origin and living in the US, I have to fake an American accent while using any speak-recognition software. This invariably leads to embarrassing situations when other Americans are in the car with me.
Do you find it easy to part with old gadgets?
No. In fact, I keep all my old gadgets much to my wife’s displeasure. I still have my four-decade-old computer. I continue to strut my Casio PDA around. I have not parted with my Apple Newton and trust me, these gizmos can now only be found in museums.
What’s the next ultra-expensive gadget that you wish to buy?
I am tempted to buy a top-of-the-line digital SLR camera. It’s a high-end gadget with great picture speed and a powerful zoom that makes it very appealing. I’m also investing in a gadget that can help me connect my computer to my television set.
