Further Facebook Thoughts

"The human mind thrives on change and being exposed to new things."

So said my Bowen Systems Theory teacher, Doug Hester.

And as per my last post on change, I agree.  However, there is a corollary to such a thing:

"Systems like homeostasis and are resentful to change."  --Doug Hester

That dynamic is at play wherever you go.--especially on the internet where websites constantly change and update.  Yet, I have come to see that the anxiety that goes along with change can be diminished significantly.

I my time of browsing and engaging the world wide web, I know of only one website that hasn't changed its format: the Drudge Report.  Most others change on a regular basis, but there is something that sets those websites apart compared to Facebook.

For instance, every time Yahoo! has changed its format, it warns its browsers weeks, sometimes months in advance.  There is a link which will pop up that says, "Check out our new format!"

Browsers have plenty of time to grow accustomed to the look in advance.  And even if they don't check out the changes, they are warned such change is coming.  It makes a world of difference.  Other websites will even ask for input before making the change ensuring folks have an opportunity to engage the process before it happens.  Generally, when the change finally occurs, there is a seamless transition with little or no fussiness.

Compare this to the random nature and imposition of change which occurs on Facebook. 

Which is a more mature way of handling it?

Change is necessary.

But if you are aware of human nature and how it works, you will administer change in such a way that does not incite or infuriate.

Not likely the folks at Facebook really care or would take such things under advisement.  But maybe if they spent a little less time with their computers and a little more time with people, things would be different.