snip
The list is certainly a lot "friendlier." I can remember a couple of years ago when I was almost scared to ask a question, because inevitably it would provoke an RTFM or something along the lines of a contemptuous sneer. Down to one person especially, if I remember rightly..........(who is now gone).
Actually, I can't remember (but am willing to be corrected) a "contemptuous sneer" to a mail saying that in spite of trying the obvious sources the sender could not >work something out.
Oh yes, but I'm not going to say who the offender was. (maybe "contemptuous sneer" is little strong, but you get my drift). Anyway, they're no longer around (maybe they're lurking, though I doubt it).
Questions which state "I have this problem. I have checked a, b, c, and d, but can't >find the answer. Can anyone point me in the right direction?" will not only get a rapid >response but will also indicate to other list members where the initial checks may be >made, and also the way in which to ask for advice.
Agree that's exactly how it should be done.
snip
Perhaps lists like this will need to become tiered?
Well, maybe there is a case for doing it the Mandrake way, with "newbie" and "expert" lists. There's no reason why someone couldn't post certain questions to each list, depending on their level of expertise with that particular topic. The Linux world is definitely changing, with many more "newbies" around - people who more or less expect to be able to switch on their computer and have it work, who have never had to edit a configuration file or even use a tool like YaST. Now maybe Linux isn't actually ready for that - it's a whole new argument (is Linux ready for the desktop?)- but the fact is that these people are there and asking for help. I think we should encourage them, but where do you draw the line? One of the criticisms of Windows is the level of bloat which, in part, at least, is due to all these tools and wizards that are supposed to make configuration idiot-proof (but not Microsoft-proof!) There's a link in today's BBC news - http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/3601710.stm What's going to happen when all these people start running Linux? OK, there are sysadmins, but many of them will install it at home as well. I could go on and on, but better not! Just some of my thoughts first thing in the morning................... Have a good day, everyone. This is a great list. David