The Web brings us closer to the ones we love, but it can also make us love the ones it brings us closer to. - Blake Ross (Firefox Creator on James Kim)

The death of James Kim has sparked a new debate about the reliability of Technology and gadgets. It is now believed that Questionable directions given by online mapping services could have contributed to the death of James Kim, who perished while trying to save his stranded family. During the hunt for the Kims, a number of computer users tested programs such as Google Maps and MapQuest to map the shortest route between the two towns. The programs reportedly listed Bear Camp Road, where the Kims got stuck, as the most efficient shortcut. The online mapping programs have apparently changed and as of December 7, 2006, show the drive along Interstate 5 and Oregon State Route 42 to U.S. Highway 101 as the preferred route between Roseburg and Gold Beach. (According to Wikipedia)

On the other hand Kati Kim and her two children were found alive by a private helicopter on December 4, 2006. Thanks to Cellphones. They were only successfully located because a signal transmitted from the family’s cell phone had been picked up by a cellular tower.The signal was emitted when the Kim family’s cell phone received a text message. Authorities credit an employee of Oregon cell provider Edge Wireless with creating computer models to triangulate the phone location.

Well this ordeal had truly gripped the geek world, and some real good lessons were learnt. First off Don’t rely on technology blindly for directions. get independent verification of every destination and carry a detailed road map. Secondly stay put, Don’t split up, an individual, on their own, might not see the way out of trouble, and each adult might lose half of their reasoning power. Families should always stay together. According to a wise gent named Aristotle, “When two upon a journey go, one sees before the other.” (notes from Tom Stienstra )

For the more information, you can go to the page set up by the Kim family, JamesandKati.com, or to CNET’s tribute page to James and his family.