QWERTY vs. Dvorak

[Moe Fugga]

Has anyone here ever tried using the Dvorak Simplified Keyboard? I trained myself how to use it back in 2003, and it totally rocks. Here's a link for more info: http://www.mwbrooks.com/dvorak/

[UrbanBingo]

Years ago, I only used a Dvorak keyboard and tried desperately to get others to appreciate it's benefits.

[The Rat in the Hat]

Has anyone here ever tried using the Dvorak Simplified Keyboard? I trained myself how to use it back in 2003, and it totally rocks. Here's a link for more info: http://www.mwbrooks.com/dvorak/

It took me almost 10 years on the job to get halfway proficient with QWERTY. At my age, I don't think I have enough time to learn DVORAK

[103rapesAday]

The other major benefit to a Dvorak keyboard is ergonomics, it's far less strain on the hands over a longer period of time. Studies have shown it's easier to learn, people tend to type much faster (25% gains are common), and it's more accurate once it's learned. I think the unavailability of finding the keyboard and price of it will keep people from even trying it though it should be the standard from this point on (this is what they should be teaching children on) since computers are becoming an everyday appliance for everyone. I think like the metric system at least US will shun it though it would be much greater to everyone's benefit.

[BananaTreeClimber]

Can't say I get it either. I learned to type qwerty probably about 16 years ago now. Only about a year or two to be proficient with it, typing without looking etc.. Can thank Internet Relay Chat for that. Even did some part time data entry work looking for jobs early on. You're either a good typist, or you aren't. I don't see how a keyboard layout is going to change it by that much. I would have no interest whatsoever learning a new layout now. When I was doing data entry 80 WPM was pretty standard. 60 WPM isn't that hard either. Depends on what you're typing, copying something, writing an email, formatting, etc..

And not trying to say the studies are wrong, but I've been on a keyboard 20 years straight. Have worked in the computer field since I got out of school and am on the internet practically every night chatting away. Work on and am using them 8+ hours a day. I can't say I've ever had cramps, hand problems, arthritis, carpel tunnel, no vision problems either. So the whole thing being ergonomics never did anything for me either. Those damned ergonomic keyboards are a pain in the ass if you ask me. Might be fine if that's the only keyboard you ever use, but damn I'm on multiple computers, servers, every day I like em nice and simple.

Will wait til I can just type using my brainwaves to upgrade.

[Moe Fugga]

I've been thinking about this for a while, and I have some questions. Okay--qwerty is a bit difficult, but we all worked hard and learned it, right? This dvorak system seems to me to be something aimed at lazy people--people who just don't want to learn about how the quick brown fox jumped over the lazy brown dog. This isn't some sort of nigger system designed to get around The Man's qwerty system, is it? I'm getting suspicious here--I'm starting to wonder if Popeye's is going to start passing out dvorak keyboards with their buckets soon.

Doubt it. Dvorak is an engineering masterpiece. QWERTY looks like it was thrown together by drunken niggers. Dvorak is much better from an ergonomic standpoint.