Root Cause / Episode 013 / PDF redaction
The Manager wants to share a staff list while keeping home addresses private. Brian checks what’s under the black boxes.
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Read the transcript
Panel 1. The Manager and Brian look at a PDF titled “STAFF LIST.” Manager: “Can we share this staff list without showing anyone’s home address?” Brian: “Let me check the PDF first.”
Panel 2. The Manager points to a version of the list with three black strips over the addresses. Manager: “I covered every address with a black box.”
Panel 3. Brian lifts a black strip from the document. The sample address “123 EXAMPLE ST” is still there and highlighted. Brian: “I can still copy the text underneath the boxes.”
Panel 4. Brian holds his mug, wearing safety glasses with a black strip across both lenses. The Manager holds the roll of tape. Manager: “Now try reading it.”
Meet the regulars
Brian
Solves infrastructure. Still waiting on requirements.
The Manager
Sees the possibility. Occasionally, the scope.
Patch
Helpful. Literal. Technically followed instructions.