W. Daniel Hillis's statement incisively captures a fundamental aspect of technology: its state of evolution. The quote suggests that technology is defined not by the tools and systems that function seamlessly, but by those that are in a stage of imperfection or development. This perspective emphasizes the iterative nature of technological progress. It highlights that what we regard as mature, reliable technology today was once a flawed idea, a prototype, or a concept shy of practical application.

This understanding encourages a mindset of patience and continuous improvement. It reminds us that innovation involves experimentation, failures, and refinements before reaching maturity. The process where "technology doesn't work yet" is where creativity and problem-solving skills become crucial. Challenges and errors are inherent to this journey and serve as catalysts rather than obstacles.

Furthermore, this quote implicitly celebrates the future. Since technology embodies anything that doesn't yet work, there is always something new on the horizon promising to revolutionize our realities. This outlook fosters optimism and curiosity, inspiring creators and users alike to engage with emerging technologies with a spirit of exploration.

From a societal perspective, the adage also encourages a healthy skepticism about existing technologies, urging us to question and reimagine how things could work better before prematurely labeling them as functional or obsolete. It is a powerful reminder that technology is not static but a dynamic continuum of what is yet to be perfected or realized.