#making things talk

[whichlights]

If you want reliable, clear communications (in love or networking), there are a few simple things you have to do. Listen more than you speak. Never assume that what you said is what they heard. Agree on how you're going to say things in advance. Ask politely for clarification when messages aren't clear.

Making Things Talk, by Tom Igoe

[whichlights]

Networking objects is a bit like love. The fundamental problem in both is that when you're sending a message, you never really know whether the receiver understands what you're saying, and there are a thousand ways for your message to get lost or garbled in transmission.

Making Things Talk, by Tom Igoe