This list really works for me!

10 things that won't survive the recession | Computerworld | News | December 23, 2008 | By Mike Elgan

Here in Germany, there is hardly any free tech support left. Usually, you have to call a toll-laden number, around €1,50/min, to get support. I was outraged by that at first. In the end I realized that the cost of the service to no longer spread by some magic across all customers but charged to the few that actually cause it. And That Is Good. When I listen to some of the call we got, I have to say that I am relieved that I no longer pay through a surcharge for such waste of time.

Not sure that I agree with the Free WiFi. No business model there, so why would anybody do it?

Also not sure about landlines. In case of an emergency, e.g. when power is out, a simply analog phone will still work. Your cell phone will run out of charge quickly. Since the infrastructure is there, I guess this boils down to a question of service level. I can easily see a product that put an emergency phone into your house, at minimum cost, that costs a lot to call from unless to police, fire brigade etc. Since the lines are laid, the real cost of maintaining this one would be low (unless major repairs are necessary).

Am STUNNED by the PALM Investment. Really, really stupid. Like investing into horse-drawn buggies in the 1920’s.