Go ahead, ask!

Who Is That Nice Man?


			He began teaching his fellow high school students how to have fun with computers back in 1968, back when they used punch cards. Now he works full-time as an IS Manager, but in the evenings and on weekends he answers questions, provides training, and solves problems regarding home computers, Windows, and the Internet.
	What Can That Nice Man Do For Me?
			He can help advise you on planned purchases. He can set up and configure your computer and modem, and install programs. He can resolve hardware conflicts and software problems. He can provide customized executive-level training in a wide range of topics, including: Safe and Simple Computer Use, Using Windows (version 98, NT, 2000, XP and beyond) Microsoftware (Word, Office, IE, etc.), Using the Internet (via LAN, ISP or America Online) Networking Your Home Building and Maintaining a Web Site, etc. He can provide ongoing support, and answer questions and solve problems as they arise.
	Can The Nice Man Get Me Connected To The Internet?
			Yes! He can help you select Internet Service Providers to meet your needs and budget. He can install and configure your Internet connection software, and teach you how to use your Internet tools -- mail, Web, news, file, and chat -- to make the most of your time online. If desired, he can also provide consultation on the use of the Internet for personal, adult, recreational purposes.
	Does The Nice Man Always Talk About Himself In The Third Person?
			No. Sorry. Sometimes having a Web Page does that to a person. I'm all right now.
	How Much Does The Nice Man Charge?
			Initial conversation, and answers to easy questions, are free. Basic consulting is $100 per hour, by phone or in-person, regardless of topic. There is no charge for travel within San Francisco. Troubleshooting by phone usually costs $25 to $50, but if the problem is not solved, there is no charge. Ask about special fixed-price packages, and discounts for computer User Group members, and for people with a special need for Internet access.
	Why Do You Call Yourself That Nice Man?
			Because the phone company offered me 642-xxxx when I asked for an ISDN-ready number, and NIC-EMAN was the best number-word I could think of that wasn't taken. And because I remembered the old Robert Benchley essay, "Ask That Man" (It's a fable, sexist but charming, where She always tells Him to Ask That Nice Man for directions, until He takes Her on a trip through Hell following That Man's advice, after which She never again suggests asking for directions... but He finds himself constantly asking for them.) Of course, on reflection, it's a dreadful business name, hardly one to inspire trust. In point of fact, I have an extremely naughty mind, and will also reply to e-mail addressed to NastyMan@nman.com. But, when all is said and done, yes, you will find me polite, easy to deal with, a good listener and a patient teacher. So someday, when you are so frustrated with your computer that you'd actually pay to have someone to talk to about it, maybe you will remember that silly little San Francisco phone number.
	But Who Is That Nice Man Really?
			My name is David Hyman. Happy now?
	How Can I Contact That Nice Man?
			For best results, please call 415/NICEMAN (415/642-3626). I am often at home between 7:00 and 11:00 p.m. Pacific Time on weekdays, and all day on weekends. But if I am out, please leave voice-mail; I will get back to you as soon as possible. If you prefer using e-mail, just click here or use your favorite e-mail program. Address your e-mail to "niceman@nman.com" and — to make your message stand out from all the spam — please include the word "question" in the Subject of your first e-mail message to me.
		Ask That Nice Man 415/NICEMAN (415/642-3626) 584 Castro Street #386 San Francisco, CA 94114 http://www.nman.com niceman@nman.com