There’s a problem in our industry, even with all the cool technology advancements and amazing, fun stuff happening every day. It is sad to say, but new — and existing — products don’t always work well together and it’s an issue of interoperability. This eight-syllable mouthful is defined as “the ability of computer systems or software to exchange and make use of information between devices made by different manufacturers.” Interoperability has been a hot topic for more than 25 years, yet a viable solution hasn’t been found. Why can’t they all just get along?
Early in life — at home, at school and beyond — we are taught that everyone needs to play nicely together. Getting along makes for good times at home, at work and at play. It has to do with the 3 Cs: consistency, communication and collaboration. Rules for playgrounds are consistent; no throwing sand, no pushing, and remember to take turns. These guidelines are communicated by figures of authority. And when playing together, collaboration makes for a winning team. This is easy to understand, though execution is sometimes a challenge.