Word Processors and Spell Check

Computers and technology have spoiled us.  Tasks that used to take hours can now be done in minutes and we have all grown to rely on this benefit.  However, our dependency on modern technology has created a habit of carelessness.  Simple mistakes are made more often because we do not always spend as much time reviewing and rereading our work as we should.

Spell Check

When word processors started to become mainstream and take over the role of typewriters, software companies developed the spell check feature.  This was a huge game changer for the professional world.  Simple typo mistakes would be pointed out to us automatically and allowed us to correct them without having to retype a document.  Additionally, if we were unsure as to how to spell a word, we could make an educated guess and more often then not the computer would figure out what word we were trying to spell.  We no longer needed to reference a dictionary to ensure we spelled large and complex words properly.  However, this amazing program feature that we have grown to rely on has a few downsides.  First, although modern word processors have some sort of grammar check feature as well, they are not perfect and relying on them too much can lead to sentences not making sense.  Next, auto correct features do not always get it right and if we are not diligent, we can input the wrong word in the wrong place.  Finally, the convince of a computer has spoiled us and as a result most people’s spelling skills have declined do to lack of practice.

Time Saving

Before the days of computers, people had to hand write or type everything on a typewriter.  If a single mistake was made, the entire page would have to be rewritten.  As a result, simple letters and memos could take much longer to draft then they do today.  Additionally, companies were forced to have employees on staff whose main job was to type out formal letters.  The ability to type fast and type without making errors was a huge benefit to any administrative assistant who was looking for employment.  How many words per minute they could type was a major factor on their resume.  Today, the speed at which an employee types is important; however, an individual can afford to type a bit slower.  Mistakes are not as devastating to production as they used to be.   Furthermore, we can save old document digitally and simply alter them for future use.  We no longer need to retype an entire document if we want to change something.  We simply open the saved digital copy, make the necessary changes, and send it out.  Technology has drastically changed how we send out and spread information and this change has saved businesses countless payroll hours.

 Copy and Paper Industry

There was a time when the type of copy machines an office had, and the quality of paper used was important. Companies that wanted to be noticed needed high quality print materials to provide to customers and prospective clients.  People looking for a job needed a high-quality resume on high quality paper to stand out and get noticed.  Technology, more specifically e-mail, has changed this.  Companies and individuals rarely use print documents, memos, or letters today.  Instead, most businesses focus on e-mails and digital pdfs to spread information.  This not only drastically cuts costs but make access easier.  However, as a result the dependency on photocopy machines and high-end paper products has greatly decreased.  Most businesses still have a commercial printer and copy machine; however, it is used far less.  Additionally, businesses still print documents, but the emphasis on the paper quality has declined.  Most companies now try to use as little paper as possible and often use the cheapest option available.  Next time you go into an office supply store look at the paper section.  They have been greatly reducing available in stock options continuously over the last several decades as demand for the product has decreased.  Finally, most businesses are trying to reduce carbon their footprint and a simple way to do this is print less material and use less paper.

Technology has come a long was, but it is important we do not become to depend on it.  It is important for us to know how to spell and to check our own grammar.  If we rely solely on technology, we will make mistakes.  That being said, modern technology has saved countless hours of work and has helped reduced a business expenses and carbon footprint.  We just need to ensure we do our due diligence and do not rely too much on features like spell check.  It is still important to proofread and reread all our work.  Failing to do so will only result in careless mistakes.