I would like to announce the launch of brainwaves, a subsite of thought?horizon.  brainwaves is a repository of information on the use of “PersonalBrain” with a particular focus on patterns for use.  It is not a replacement, not is it intended to ever be, a replacement for the PersonalBrain discussion group.  Rather I see both co-existing over time.  The PersonalBrain discussion group is the place to generate ideas and discuss uses of the PersonalBrain software.  However discussion groups are not easy to navigate and glean information from.  But brainwaves will be; synthesizing ideas from the discussion group and making for easy access.

Pattern Library - Doing Real Work

“Each pattern describes a problem which occurs over and over again in our environment, and then describes the core of the solution to that problem, in such a way that you can use this solution a million times over, without ever doing it the same way twice.”
Chistopher Alexander

The pattern library steps beyond the question of “How do I open a file?” or “How to I export” to the more powerful questions of “How do I use the software in the real world to do real work?”.  I recommend you read the Pattern Library Introduction to become familiar with the ideas.  As of today, there are three documented patterns.  They are Brainstorm, ThinkTank and Happiness.  The others will come online over the coming weeks as I find time to complete them.
 

I will also create a brain that you can import into your own and use to navigate the site quickly.

Why do this - Altruism or money

There are a number of drivers behind the creation of brainwaves.

  1. Communities such as the PersonalBrain discussion group provide a great wealth of information that one MAY only derive after years of individual experiment.  I, as you, often rely on that information to be productive.  In this instance I am able to give something back.  I also believe that someone else out there, maybe you, will see this as a stepping stone to your own new ideas.  I hope you are willing to share them also.
  2. The act of formulating the patterns strengthens my own understanding.  I have to think else I will provide nothing of benefit.  That is why some patterns are complete and others not.  I don’t yet have the 100% understanding even though I recognise the pattern is there.
  3. I will not charge for the use of this material.  I will use this in my own consulting and work endeavours as may you subject to the Creative Commons License under which it is provided.

Help Wanted - How you can help

If you would like to help I would welcome:

  • any assistance with sample plexs
  • comment (to be held in the PersonalBrain discussion group)
  • if you are a Radio Userland user I can forward an opml template for you to complete if you wish
  • documented tips and tricks