They didn’t invent it, but the internet and specifically platforms like YouTube, provided a huge boost to the “Do-It-Yourself” movement. Instead of having to rely on hands-on training, word of mouth, books or walking back and forth between project and the VCR player, we can now bring up at least a dozen or more videos on just about any crafting, repairing, constructing, cooking, etc. endeavor we can imagine. I just watched a video on how to harvest and smelt iron from bacteria found in streams. It was detailed enough that I might have a reasonable chance at actually doing so, if I were so motivated. You never know if we might bomb ourselves back to the stone age and these types of skills might be important again. But at the point where this might actually become important, things like YouTube and smartphones aren’t going to be available. Perhaps a bad example, but damn if it wasn’t an interesting video.
Let’s assume the Apocalypse isn’t imminent
A less extreme example might be the myriad of repair and construction projects you can find on various household amenities. I also just watched a video on how to install a mini-split air conditioning unit, and assuming I have the tools and manual dexterity to not kill myself while operating them, I believe I have a reasonable chance at actually completing something like that. But what happens if things don’t go exactly as they are depicted in the video? What if I spend many thousands of dollars on equipment, dozens of hours of labor and the darn thing won’t turn on – or worse, it turns on but doesn’t actually work as expected? There are certain types of projects that make sense as a DIY project. Bookshelves from recycled materials? DIY. Three-D printed keychain rack? DIY. Mural for daughter’s bedroom? DIY! Email for your organization? DI-wait a second… Malware protection for your work PC’s? Uhhh…nope. Could you implement these solutions for your organization by yourself? Sure. There’s probably even videos on walking you through it. What most videos don’t contain are the instructions on when things go wrong, or how to make sure you’ve implemented the proper security measures that match your business requirements. YouTube videos and website FAQs can only provide the basics. Experience and training are what makes the difference between “hobby-grade” and “enterprise-grade” technology. Trust me when I say your organization deserves (and needs!) technology installed and serviced by experienced professionals. It may cost more up front, but will save you time, money and sanity in the long run.
Image by Peggy und Marco Lachmann-Anke from Pixabay
