There’s an insane amount of acronyms used in the IT world, from Networking to Security to Software Development, but some lesser-known ones are used in the world of IT Support. After all, these guys are the ones on the front lines, often dealing with a range of issues, and a range of users to support.
As such, it’s unsurprising that there’s a language that’s used among them, often disguised within a casual conversation, or on support ticket systems.
Useful? Sometimes
Mildly Unprofessional? Also Sometimes
But it gets the point across in a fast fashion, as support teams are often under pressure.
Here are some examples of acronyms that might be used:
- PEBCAK – Problem Exists Between Chair and Keyboard, often said as “PEBCAK Error”
- I-D-10-T – When said, this wouldn’t be clocked quickly, but written, you can tell, a disguised user issue.
- Code 18 – In a similar vein, the problem exists 18 inches from the screen
- PICNIC – Problem In Chair, Not In Computer
- RTFM – Read The F_____ Manual, a sarcastic way to refer to documentation
- FUBAR – Fouled Up Beyond All Recognition, usually when something has gone catastrophically wrong
- CYA – Cover Your Arse (or Ass), commonly used in email and documentation to protect yourself before doing something impactful, or when someone has asked you to do something you don’t agree with.
- KISS – Keep It Simple Stupid, usually used when someone over-engineers a solution, which is more common than you might think
- YMMV – Your Mileage May Vary, often used when expectations are to be managed
- WFM – Works for Me, often a 50/50 flip from someone between being actually useful or a dismissive shrug
Do you work in IT Support or another department? Are there any acronyms that you use?
What do you think?