This is a story from 20 or so years ago. Back when our IT dept had only 4 or so people and we all did everything - solder crossover RS232 printer cables, support calls, wriiting code... and after hours support. We also had staggard shifts so we could cover from 7am through to 6pm on site.

One morning I arrived at 7am and received a call from a co-worker, not in IT. He said, and i'll never forget... "I can't get my email". I've remembered that phrase for two reasons: 1, the bard grammar and 2, the story i'm telling you now.

So for those of you experienced in tech support, what's the issue ? Go on, whilst you read the following paragraphs think of all the reasons why someone can;t get their email.

This user's name was Simon. He's passed now unfortunately. I thought i'd give him really good service and make a personal visit so early in morning. He was located in an adjoining building up a set of stairs.

So I make my way out of my building and over to his. Get to the stairwell and I notice... overhead lights are off.

Get to his floor and... all the lights are off.

There is a kitchen near the stairwell; fridge not running. I also can't hear the aircon either.

I get to Simon and... computer is not turned on. It has no power. Power to the floor is out.

I can't get my email ?????? Really, that's the error you give me when there is a power outage ??

I head to the kitchen where circuit breakers are; find the main breaker is off; turn it on and all comes to life. His computer boots and he gets his email.

Sigh......