In the Trenches with Google

At work, we decided to use a Google Search Appliance for internal and external use.  I am amazed by the simplicity (and subsequent complexity) that Google was able to achieve with the tool.  It provides fast, robust search with all the advanced features we expect (thanks again, Google)–especially for search that costs my company at least $10k.  We can even do some really cool metadata gymnastics, too, but I digress…

So, my dream machine was rockin’, right?

Google Screen of Death

Like a rockstar stolen from us in their prime (rumored electricty overdose), our GSA went out in a Blaze of Glory that would make Jon Bon Jovi jealous.  Segfault!  Tech support to the rescue… The Big Goog confirmed the unit was dead and shipped us another.  Fast forward two days, we have a shiny new blue box.  Plug it in–Pfffft! DOA.

I wonder briefly if Google actually shipped us a dead machine. Again the dude from Tech Support with the thick accent confirms it is dead.  But not until after asking me a series of insulting questions–”Have you tried plugging the system in?”

No, I only type computer programs. They’re sooo cute.

Asinine.  I do expect more than this from the G.  I mean this search isn’t free.

It seems, Google, you assume everyone has infinitely deep pockets and can replace hardware as if breathing.  That’s not the real world, Google.  That’s only in happy-go-lucky-let’s-print-some-more-cash Googleville.

What is an enterprise to do?  Us?  We shelled out more cash–for a redundant GSA.  And guess what?

It’s dead now.

Big G, you screwed up again–and all I got was this lousy T-shirt?