Re: FW: Michael - Patent Infringement Notice

[Deke Kassabian <deke () ISC UPENN EDU>]

I agree completely. And rather than prune the quoted text I'm leaving it 
here to emphasize Sam's well written points.

An open list has real value. When a closed discussion on a particular 
point is needed, there are other approaches that may be suitable 
including things as simple as a conference call or an email message 
directed to a subset of list members, or as complex/sophisticated as a 
collaboration space with limited membership.

I believe that the open access Educause lists serve some very positive 
purposes and I'd "vote" for leaving them as they are.

One guy's opinion,
^Deke

On 12/8/11 11:06 AM, Sam Stelfox wrote:
> I know this can be a rough bit to swallow but this discussions seems to
> crop up every couple of years and I'd highly recommend everyone to find
> those threads before we start a new one. It can definitely be less than
> ideal to leave the lists open, but there are many people that are
> subscribed to this list legitimately from non-edu addresses.
>
> Personally, I think leaving it open so people from other industries can
> see our discussions is a huge benefit. The people on this list are
> intelligent, and thoughtful with their responses. These responses are
> indexed publicly and people with similar problems can see the points and
> counterpoints with each one.
>
> If a vendor violates the sanctity of that discussion, it's not because
> it's encouraged. More likely than not it was a thoughtless act by a
> vendor that chose not to read the rules, or if they have, chose not to
> abide by them. This is a disastrous decision on their part as it will
> cause them to lose more business than they gain as any respect they may
> have will be broken.
>
> There are also legitimate uses for vendor's being able to see these
> lists without harassing the members. By understanding what the current
> concerns and directions different organizations are heading in they can
> choose to adjust their products and provide better features for us all.
> This last point is small, and many may argue with it, but I personally
> consider it valid none-the-less.

--

Deke Kassabian,  Senior Technology Director
Information Systems and Computing, University of Pennsylvania