Purple Dragon's current post got me thinking about aides memoirs new and old.

I gave up on Microsoft Outlook, reminder pings and yellow 'animated' yellow post notes, because my computer isn't where I spend most of my functioning day. It is not on from the first point of my waking day. Some days it is not switched on at all. I don't find computer diarising in a domestic setting too useful. I am much better off with a paper based diary and a monthly 'to do' list.

The portable electronic personal organisers were good, though a bit heavy and bulky. I still have one functioning with all the birthdays and associated information. I add to the electronic list as new people appear and occasionally delete a few. Though portable, the organiser does not now move out of the house and only appears when I need to check on some third party personal detail or other fact.

While I can see how a programme like Outlook can be supportive in a commercial environment when computers are on from the minute you arrive at a desk, when the system can advise others of possible availability and so on, I feel the way such a programme is structured is not too useful in a family household. It is not geared up for domestic life.

Many people I know both in business and not, use microfile style old-fashioned handwritten organisers. I say old fashioned but are they? The refills for these paper organisers are readily available in stationery stores.

I feel there is a commitment putting things into writing. Typing doesn't have the same feel about it and on a computer or electronic organiser whatever is 'noted' may stare back at you but it does not seem personal, it is disconnected. Its effectiveness is reduced, even negated.

Sure, you can dabble with the the computer diary system and work it, in a fashion, but it puts you back to the requirement to have a computer on all day and everyday from your waking moments, pinging, till you close your eyes at night.