Walt Mossberg, personal-technology columnist for "The Wall Street Journal," highlighted technology trends in his speech to a group of college presidents and other administrators. Mr. Mossberg touched a nerve when he called information-technology departments of large organizations, including colleges, "the most regressive and poisonous force in technology today." They make decisions based on keeping technology centralized, he said. Although lesser-known software may be better, he asserted that technology departments are likely to use big-name products for their own convenience. Sometimes that may be necessary to keep costs down and to secure the organization's network, he said. However, it puts consistency above customization, preventing individuals from exploring what technology products are best suited to their own needs. After the speech, he elaborated in an interview, saying that big departments act as impediments to the adoption of new technology. Reactions of several college officials to Mr. Mossberg's remarks are presented.