Medical Diagnosis: None
Tom is the assistant to the president of a computer training firm. In the course of his work continually seeks out and evaluates new business technologies.

He first saw the Kinesis keyboard at a computer trade show and placed an advanced order. "We received a Kinesis keyboard shortly after they began rolling off the production line. Within a few days of beginning to use it, I was a believer. The key is comfortable and easy to use. I appreciate the careful research and thoughtful consideration that went into the design and production of the keyboard. It appears to me that the needs and concerns of end users were listened to, incorporated in Kinesis' design process, and effectively translated into a finished product. Even the aesthetics are well done; around our office, the space-age look of the keyboard grabs people's attention and makes it a unique conversation piece."

Although he isn't injured, Tom can feel that there is a difference in the amount of muscular effort required to use the Kinesis keyboard. "When type, I can comfortably reach all of the keys. My fingers go naturally to the Home Row keys. And since they have much less traveling to do, my fingers don't tire as quickly - even if I'm working on a major project at the keyboard. It definitely requires less effort to use the Kinesis."

Tom adapted quickly to the columnar key layout and the new key locations. "In the beginning, the Typing Tutor software helped me with the transition. But, in only a few days, I was completely comfortable with the keyboard. I also regained most of my original typing speed within the same period of time. Given how automatic it is for most of us to work a traditional keyboard, it's great that you have to modify these instinctive skills so little in order to use Kinesis' new technology."

He thinks Kinesis' thumb keys "are a terrific idea because they're so natural to use. My thumbs are just resting right there and it's logical to assign more keys to them."

Tom appreciates the availability of advanced features. "It's nice that Kinesis includes the ability to remap keys. But because I've found the existing layout already makes sense, I haven't remapped any keys. I did, however, remap the optional foot pedal to Escape - something that's more appropriate to my needs."

While Tom has high praise for the keyboard itself, he is also satisfied with other aspects of his experience with Kinesis. "I tip my hat to Kinesis fir their attention to customer service. Their documentation is clear and easy to follow. By including Typing Tutor with the keyboard, they have actually anticipated their customers needs. Calling to find out how I like the keyboard also speaks well for them. I give both the Kinesis keyboard and the Kinesis organization two thumbs up."