We live in a microwave culture. I use this phrase often when discussing business needs with clients, especially in the context of leveraging technology to address those needs. Sometimes I will get a puzzled look, other times I will get some head nods in agreement and understanding. When I use this phrase, I’m talking about how the microwave has affected our culture from an end-user expectation perspective. There is an expectation of getting what I want when I want it, and an immediacy built into that expectation. The microwave turned hours into minutes, and minutes into seconds. There tends to be very little patience for waiting for something, whether it be food, service, or technology. When discussing business needs and the underlying technologies supporting those needs, end-user expectations and perceptions must be taken into account.