The QWERTY Keyboard: A Sociotechnical Analysis

This lecture delves into the history and impact of the QWERTY keyboard layout, exploring its resilience in the tech industry despite attempts to change it. It discusses the socio-technical aspects of its design, the influence of historical events and trends, and the consequences of its adoption. The presentation covers the development of typing speed, the influence of newspaper publishers and telegraph operators, and the societal implications of the keyboard's design. It also examines the effects of the QWERTY layout on word meanings, baby names, and online interactions. Additionally, it analyzes the keyboard's effects on materiality, maintenance, durability, and infrastructure, shedding light on the keyboard's lasting impact on technology and society.