In 1978 there were no commercial computer programs on the market. No Word Perfect or Microsoft Word. In fact, when you flipped the computer’s “on” switch, nothing happened. You had to load BASIC, the programming language before the computer would do anything at all. BASIC was fed in by magnetic tape from a cassette player. That took at least ten minutes, and if there was a speck of dirt on the tape, it would crash and you had to start all over again. A far cry from modern computers.
One of the first computer geeks, my husband bought a Polymorphs 8080 bus in an ugly bright orange metal box to play math games. He soon began trying to win me over by extolling the virtues of some wonderful new thing the computer could do called “word processing.” I didn’t even want to hear about it. My thinking began to change when my husband offered to write a handwriting analysis program for me. By then I had been studying handwriting for about ten years, and the idea of automating the process, at least to some degree, was intriguing. I came up with a list of important characteristics and definitions, and he wrote the program.
We called it Bionetix. The idea was to link the human element (‘bio) with the machine (‘netix'). Now it sounds more like the name of a science fiction movie. The Bionetix program was pretty limited in what it could do, but the people who ordered analyses seemed to like the novel dot matrix printed output. I have had several offers to computerize handwriting analysis over the years, but the people making the suggestions didn’t impress me; handwriting analysis is very complex. I’ve always believed-and still do-that the best analysis needs the human touch. I didn’t think a computer could do handwriting justice. The computer can’t see the fine nuances in handwriting that a well-trained analyst can. Yet, while software can never replace the human analyst, it’s a great help in speeding up the analysis process and writing the report.
One day I got a phone call from someone who said he’d seen an article about me that had run in the L.A. Times a couple of months before. He was with RI Software, a computer development company interested in graphology. The partners at RI Software are at the top of their field, and consult to companies like Microsoft. They were researching the possibility of creating a computer program to analyze handwriting. He had interviewed some other graphologists, but hadn’t yet found a good fit for the project.
Thanks to my early introduction to computers and desktop publishing software I was very comfortable at the keyboard. Then, of course, there were the thousand or so handwriting analyses I did each year. The computer was now my friend. But, computer literacy notwithstanding, I gave the gentleman on the phone my standard response: "there are just too many variables for a computer to be able to give an accurate analysis, and I wouldn't want to be associated with something that comes out looking like a canned report."
The guy from RI Software was undeterred. "I don't care how many variables there are,” he told me firmly. “If they can be defined, we can computerize them." He must have been prepared for an argument, as he immediately had a couple of persuasive selling points ready: the software would have my name on it, and I would have full control over what went into it. More importantly, if it worked well, it could help validate graphology as a science. As RI’s head programmer pointed out, if something is scientific it must be able to be replicated. In other words, it must mean the same thing, every time. If the software did what it was intended to do, the results would be replicable.
Under those terms, I agreed to become involved in the project. After wading through pages of research material, I finally decided on 4000 handwriting characteristics. These would be the variables. I assigned each one a personality characteristic and a score (value). The scores assigned to each of those 4000+ variables are carefully weighted, with the most important handwriting characteristics (gestalt aspects of space, form, movement) having greater weight than the lesser ones (i.e., individual letters or strokes). The computer performs a series of checks and balances and algorithms to generate the final analysis. Then, I wrote nearly 200 pages of text for the reports over a period of two years. Finally, I scanned and edited more than 400 samples of handwriting for the illustrations. RI Software was responsible for designing the “look,” and the extremely complicated programming to make the whole thing work properly. They called it, Sheila Lowe’s Handwriting Analyzer.
The program is easy to use, it’s a matter of comparing the sample you want to analyze to on-screen illustrations. Once you enter the Analyzer, you’ll find a list of 48 categories of handwriting elements, such as "Organization," "Writing Style," "Rhythm," etc. Each category shows a series of pictures of handwriting on the screen. When the user selects the category “Slant.” seven types of slant are illustrated, from "Upright" to "Variable." It is then a case of clicking the mouse on the picture where the slant looks most like the handwriting sample under examination. Descriptions on the illustrations and “Que Cards” explain what to look for. No report or graph is available before at least ten choices have been made, so the most important categories are marked. The more categories inspected, the greater the accuracy of the report. After the user has inspected the handwriting for at least ten categories the user can generate a report, simply by clicking on the “Report” button.
Figure 1 Inspecting the handwriting
Besides several types of written reports, bar graphs are used as a visual aid. The graphs show a list of personality traits weighted on a scale of five, from low to extreme. There is also a circular chart called the Lowe Interest Indicator, it is reminiscent of Klara Roman's Psychogram. (see Roman 1952). The Interest Indicator graphically illustrates how the writer’s energy is distributed in various areas of personality functioning. Finally, there is the Job Profile Manager and Job Ranking Graph.
Figure 2 Interest Indicator
The Handwriting Analyzer is set up with 14 generic job profiles, but of course every company has its own individual needs and requirements. The Job Profile Manager allows the business user to create his own profiles, based on a specific job description, so he can most closely match the candidate to the job requirements. To create a new job profile, the Profile Manager gives the user a list of about 40 general statements about jobs. For instance, "Works well in a quiet, harmonious environment," or "Makes major decisions independently." The user ranks each statement on a scale of five, in relation to how important that statement is to the particular job under consideration. The computer uses the scores to create the job profile.
Figure 3 Job Profile Manager
All jobs are different, sometimes even when it’s the same position. For instance, there are many different types of sales positions. A car salesman might not be required to work in a quiet, harmonious environment, so that statement on the job profile manager would receive a low score. A diamond salesman probably would, so the job profile score in that category would be higher.
After a job profile has been selected, the computer compares the scores from the handwriting analysis already done to the scores required for the job. The resulting graph shows how close the candidate comes to a perfect match.
Figure 5 Job Matching Comparative Analysis
For the narrative report, you can choose from up to eleven categories, including Social Styles, Intellectual Preferences, and Management Styles, depending on what you need to know. The reports range from 1-3 pages, depending on how many categories are selected. If you don’t want to spend a lot of time reading, you can choose the Key Phrases report, which is a bulleted list of statements, rather than a narrative; or the Success Potential Indicator, a short version of the bar graph.
Job Ranking was added in version 4.0. It allows you to compare multiple candidates, side-by-side, to determine whose scores come closest to the job requirements in each category.
There are two versions of the Handwriting Analyzer. One is for business reports and the other for personal reports. The Professional Analyzer includes both versions, or the Personal version is available as a stand-alone. The Personal version of the Handwriting Analyzer is not licensed for business applications, as some of the more personal material covered would not be appropriate in a business report. Also, the Personal version doesn’t have the charts and graphs that the Professional version has. Another popular feature of the Professional version is the ability to export the report to any word processor for editing.
To give an idea of the style of a report, the following is an excerpt using the handwriting of President Bush.
Restrictions of any type leave him chafing at the bit. He must be free to do what he wants to do, when he wants to do it, with no confining ties that bind. Self-sufficient and emotionally independent, he prefers to make his own choices and does not leave himself open to influence by others. Neither does he rely on getting a lot of feedback about his performance. Getting ahead is a top priority for him. He puts his whole focus on attaining his objectives. And, he has a way of drawing others along with him. An easygoing, casual sort of person, when conflict is brewing, he immediately seeks ways to affect a compromise.
He has a flexible attitude and is ready to make adjustments as they are needed. Nothing is too big or too difficult for George to adapt to if he feels that is what is called for. Unwilling to let stress get to him, he simply goes with the flow. He can normally be expected to see a project all the way through to completion unless it begins to drag on too long. When that happens he tends to lose his patience. The job may get completed, but with some irritability. His outlook is fairly reasonable and rational and he approaches problems with a combination of tangible facts, personal feelings, and common sense, balancing all the factors when making a decision.
His strong sense of pride makes him unwilling to accept failure without trying and trying again, even when it would be better to move on to the next level. Although he may not brag openly about his accomplishments, he has the self-confidence to blow his own horn when it is appropriate. When it comes to asking for what he wants, he has little reluctance. His strong self-esteem tells him when it is appropriate to focus on getting his own needs met. His sense of honor is based on the norms and expectations of his social group. When he recognizes that his behavior does not live up to expectations, he is willing to reconsider his position. Since his willpower is only just average, there are times when he might waver if temptation comes along and tries to sway him from his original intentions. Keeping his objectives fairly short-term might be helpful.
George often rushes headlong into situations where he does not belong. He acts on impulse, leaving the impression that he has little emotional restraint or self-discipline. Owning material things give him a sense of security, but not as a matter of accumulating wealth for its own sake. Feeling that his needs are well cared for is much more important. George has some concern about the way things look, but is not interested in devoting vast amounts of time and energy trying to make everything perfect. He knows when to quit.
George's mind is constantly filling with one idea after another. It may be too challenging for him to sort through them and come up with something workable, time after time. It may be easier for him to analyze data than emotions. As an objective observer he is able to examine the facts, logically and rationally. Despite a tendency to debate every issue, he is open-minded and willing to listen to and consider the views of others. He gets a quick grasp on new ideas that give him the creative edge. Because he doesn't feel bound to do things in conventional ways, a whole realm of possibilities exists. Typically, he is satisfied to accept current operational philosophy, rather than spending a lot of time investigating further on his own. Although he may not fully understand the need of some people to minutely analyze each fact, when analysis is called for, he has the capacity to make the necessary evaluation.
His sense of humor and natural timing win him many points. Too many people in too close proximity leave him feeling emotionally overextended. When that happens he may just close his eyes and take a "ten-minute vacation," or, he may need a longer break. The ability to retreat and recoup allows him to cope when he is feeling intruded upon. Although he is diplomatic and tactful in most situations, if he feels strongly about a matter, you can expect him to come right out and say what's on his mind. In conversation, he can maneuver around without giving a direct answer if he feels it is necessary to equivocate. However, he would probably rather just say what he thinks when it does not put him in a defensive position.
In some respects he is susceptible both to flattery and criticism, and he puts himself at the mercy of anyone who happens to make a personal remark. He will show good grace and keep smiling in the face of negative commentary, but inside he is anguished and questions his self-worth. When meeting someone new, making the first move and offering the hand of friendship may not be quite as easy for him as it is for some. After a little while, he is able to loosen up and become a bit more congenial. There is a fine balance between expression and self-control, and he seems to have achieved it. He is responsive in emotional situations, but only demonstrates what he feels when the time is appropriate for it.
Attracted to a fast-paced environment where everyone is busy, he has no patience for clock-watchers or whiners. It's hard for him to just relax and do nothing. Some people feel the need of strong, supportive teammates to encourage them when the going gets rough. Not George. He is self-sustaining and autonomous, looking to himself for those pats on the back, rather than going outside for a boost. He rejects bureaucracy and mindless routine in the workplace. His forward-looking attitude promises the kind of progress that opens the way for evolution and development. He has a strong desire to accomplish tangible success. He carefully sets a goal, and then makes sure that he has all the necessary resources at his disposal to reach it. He does not want to be forced stop along the way to replenish supplies or fall short at the finish line.
He is the type who will first ask for the group's feelings, and then try to work out a settlement that will make everyone feel good. He uses his intuition to get a "feel" for the underlying issues and applies that knowledge to proceed in finding a resolution. George is able to weigh all the facts and reach a conclusion without allowing personal interest to enter in. He looks at the big picture and makes a decision based on the benefit to all concerned.
His determination to be the master of his fate inspires him to seek ways of being his own boss. He has the temperament to handle the freedom and the responsibility that comes with being an entrepreneur. Looking ahead to see what he needs to meet his objectives lets him know that his resources compare favorably with what he needs to obtain. His energy and enthusiasm are contagious. As a leader he has the ability to inspire and motivate and bring out the best in others. Yet, he is probably happier when everyone is doing their own thing and he doesn't have to feel responsible for anyone else.
Some graphologists may fear that the Handwriting Analyzer software will take business away from them. In fact, the opposite is true, software can take much of the drudgery out of analyzing handwriting. People who aren’t comfortable with their grammar or writing skills can relax, as the computer writes the report for them. Many who have bought the software have developed such an interest in graphology that they have gone on to study it for themselves. The truth is, the more people know about handwriting analysis, the more popular and credible it will become.
Computers have become as ubiquitous as the telephone - an integral part of our daily lives. Change doesn’t come easy, I know. I was one of those who was dragged, kicking and screaming, from DOS to Windows. But even I will admit, albeit grudgingly, that my computing life is easier because of making that change. Once those reluctant graphologists give the software a try, I believe they’ll see the benefits. No software will ever give a perfect report, but then, I don’t think any human can either. People are just too complex and multi-faceted for us to be fully correct in our assumptions about them.
Besides handwriting professionals, police departments, psychologists, human resource managers, just plain folks have tried the Handwriting Analyzer software. Businesses using it include every type and size you can imagine, from insurance companies, www developers, marketing and computer companies, and even a race track! Some small companies would like to use graphology to help them select employees, but don’t feel they can afford to pay for several analyses, which could run into hundreds of dollars. Rather than forego the analysis entirely, they do the report themselves, using the software, and get the answers they need. Individuals who are interested in analyzing handwriting only for themselves and their family, not as a career, often order the Personal version. They might never order an analysis from a human graphologist, but enjoy using the software themselves.
The software can be a helpful teaching tool for people studying graphology. Students prepare an analysis and compare their results to those produced by the computer. They test themselves by trying to find where in the handwriting the various statements come from in the computer-generated report.
Numerous graphologists in the U.S. have bought the Handwriting Analyzer. Even those who are not trained graphologists who are using the software have reported satisfaction with its accuracy. One analyst, Sharon Johnson, said that her business tripled since she started using the SLHA when it was first released. She is able to do so many more analyses because the process is so quick and easy; her clients have told her that they really enjoy the graphs too. Sheila Lowe’s Handwriting Analyzer won the Ziff-Davis Five Star Editor’s Pick Award, and has been featured in Entrepreneur magazine, PC World, and other prestigious places.
Version 5 of Sheila Lowe’s Handwriting Analyzer included a relationship compatibility module for the Personal version. Similar to the Job Manager, the handwritings of two people can be compared to discover their strengths and weaknesses as a couple. Version 5.0 gave the user the choice of producing a first-person or second person report, depending on who the client is. New illustrations to choose from were added. Version 6 in 2001 saw the addition of over 30 new items from which the user can choose so there are now 50 handwriting options and more than 7000 handwriting characteristics. Numerous items were re-arranged. Re-wording of reports took place so 12 major categories make up the reports and there was some re-scoring of the features. Two more graphs were also added.
In the future, we plan to work with a psychologist to create a special module for mental health professionals. It is based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual IV and will feature some of the major personality disorders that can be identified in handwriting. After that, there’s the Criminal Profiling module for law enforcement and other investigators.
In conclusion it must be said that computers are here to stay. Furthermore software is available to analyze handwriting accurately.
She is often seen in the media, and publishes The Vanguard, a periodical. Ms. Lowe has authored numerous monographs and trains those interested in pursuing a career in graphology. She sponsors the nationally acclaimed Vanguard Conferences, designed to elevate the standards of handwriting professionals. Her company serves a broad spectrum of clients in fields extending from staffing services to real estate, financial services, psychologists, private investigation, medical, construction, hospitality, manufacturing, automotive, and others.
Lowe S (1999). The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Handwriting Analysis. New York. Alpha Books
Roman. K (1952) Handwriting: A Key to Personality. New York, Pantheon
Roman K (1968) Encyclopedia of the Written Word. New York Ungar
Last updated 16 November 2001. Please report any corrections to me at this email address bradlen@graphology.ws
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16 November 2001
