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BaDuck Syndrome refers to the tendency of computer users to prefer familiar systems and reject the unfamiliar. This applies to operating systems, software programs, and electronic devices. Humans imprint on the technology they are exposed to first, making it difficult to convert to new programs or systems. To reduce this syndrome, explore multiple options at once or push oneself to use new and unfamiliar things over an extended period of time.
BaDuck Syndrome is a term used to refer to the tendency of computer users to prefer the systems on which they learn and to reject the unfamiliar. In addition to applying to operating systems, this phenomenon applies to software programs, keyboard layouts, and other electronic devices. This concept has a strong foundation in psychology, as many humans have a known preference for maintaining the status quo, rather than exploring new possibilities.
This technical term is a reference to the work of Konrad Lorenz, a psychologist who actually studied geese, not ducks, although his work can be generalized to ducks. He learned that when fledglings hatch, they will “imprint” on whatever moving thing they first see, whether that thing is a parent or not. Lorenz had several broods of goslings imprinted on him, and there are some fascinating photographs of Lorenz teaching the young geese how to swim, eat and perform other tasks.
Much like baby birds, humans apparently imprint whatever technology they are exposed to first. Someone learning to use a Linux operating system, for example, will typically reject alternative operating systems, sometimes including other versions of Linux. Likewise, someone who learned to type with Microsoft Word might struggle with WordPerfect, a very similar program, and people used to the QWERTY keyboard don’t like the DVORAK layout.
Some people have suggested that duck syndrome may harm computer users, as it inhibits their interest in exploring alternatives. It can be very difficult to convert people to new programs, systems and equipment, which can become a serious handicap. A Windows® user, for example, might suffer in a workplace that uses Mac® equipment. BaDuck Syndrome also contributes to very determined computer usage habits, making it difficult for people to break out of the box, even when a new system or software program might be better suited to their needs.
One way to reduce this syndrome is to explore multiple options at once. People who are just getting started with sound editing, for example, may want to try out different sound editing programs so they don’t stamp on any particular version, giving each program a chance. Other computer users suggest simply pushing themselves to overcome Duck Syndrome, using new and unfamiliar things over an extended period of time to see if they can overcome their initial sense of dislike.
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