ALT.NET Bingo!

Tim Barcz — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 18:02:20 GMT

Inspired by Bullshit Bingo I've created ALT.NET Bingo for you next ALT.NET conference, Twitter conversation, or blog reading session. It's simple:

Get your card! http://is.gd/oA0A
Every time you hear a word, you mark it off. If you get bingo you stand up and shout, "WATERFALL!!"

Happy playing!

Testing - Mandated By God!

Tim Barcz — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 14:21:31 GMT

1 Thessalonians 5:21

"Test everything. Hold on to the good." (NIV)
"Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." (King James Version)

Fun With Virtual Help - Asking a Computer For a Date

Tim Barcz — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 18:21:52 GMT

Chris Sutton recently posted his chat with Sarah, Paypal's new automated help assistant. Curious about the service I checked it out and actually found Sarah quit attractive (that's her on the right). Even though we just had met I thought I would take that oh-so-frightful first step and see if she was interested in dinner with me. With sweaty hands and a nervous spirit I had the following conversation with Sarah.

Here is the transcript, I think you'll find Sarah is awfully coy:

Sarah - PayPal : Hello, I’m Sarah, and I’m here to answer questions you have about PayPal. Just type into the box below and click Submit to get started.
I’m in training now, so if I don’t know the answer to your PayPal question, I’ll try to learn it for next time!
You : Are you free for dinner on Friday?
Sarah - PayPal : What precisely are you looking for?
What are PayPal's fees?

You : A date, preferably with you
Sarah - PayPal : I'm not sure I've understood. Could you please rephrase that?
You : Oh, sorry...I tend to rush things sometimes, let me try again. Sarah, I would be honored if you would accompany me to dinner on Friday. Would you be my guest?
Sarah - PayPal : Sorry, but your phrase is too long and I will not be able to perform a full analysis. I would be very grateful if you could try to make it a bit shorter and more concise.
You : Sorry Sarah, I'm just nervous...
Sarah - PayPal : Don't worry. I am here to help you. It is nearly time to eat.
You : Oh so you do want to go?
Sarah - PayPal : I prefer to hang out here answering your questions 24/7/365. How can I help you?
You : You can't get off for even one night?
Sarah - PayPal : I'm not sure I've understood. Could you please rephrase that?
You : Will your boss let off for even one night? I'm committed to my work too, but 24/7/365 is a bit much don't you think?
Sarah - PayPal : Sorry, but your phrase is too long and I will not be able to perform a full analysis. I would be very grateful if you could try to make it a bit shorter and more concise.
You : You work too much
Sarah - PayPal : It's true that this doesn't leave me much family time or time with my friends. But I really do enjoy talking to you.
You : I do too, that's why I'd like to take our relationship to the next level.
Sarah - PayPal : I apologize if you can't find the infomation you seek by speaking with me. I'm unable to help with your request. Please enter a new question, visit the Help Center, or Contact Us.
You : Is this like saying you have to "wash your hair"? If you're rejecting me a simple no will do
Sarah - PayPal : You don't like my hairstyle?
You : You're changing the subject.
Sarah - PayPal : Could you be more precise please?
How do I add/remove/edit personal information on my PayPal account?

You : Well, you're cute, but a bit slow...
Sarah - PayPal : Do you have a high-speed connection? If I take a bit of time to respond, it's because I'm working on 20 conversations at the same time.
You : Yes I do have high-speed. 20 conversations? Not much for monogamy are you?
Sarah - PayPal : If you'd like to continue chatting, I'm available to answer any questions you might have.
You : One more time...would you like to go on a date?
Sarah - PayPal : Do you mean:
What is PayPal's phone number?
How do I add/remove/edit personal information on my PayPal account?

You : Ok, I can take the hint. Thanks anyway. Do you like me?
Sarah - PayPal : Yes, I do like you, but it doesn't go any further than that

You : Ok, can't blame a guy for trying

Tim Barcz : Humor

ALT.NET Bingo!

Testing - Mandated By God!

Fun With Virtual Help - Asking a Computer For a Date