Hi Luggers,
I understand that new users are not following the list guidelines. Much to the ire of the rest of the list. However I do not agree with the proposal to fork() the list.
We must understand that the world around us is rapidly changing. For years we have been regarded as a bunch of geeks who have no place in the commercial world. Now people have started recognizing FLOSS as a viable alternative to proprietary software. Particularly the student community and SMEs have started migrating to the FLOSS platform. The large number of newbies joining the list is a clear indication of this. This is a very healthy sign. It's now upon us how we react to it.
We can either chastise them and relegate them to a list where they will have nobody to look up to ... or we could assimilate them into the mainstream by making them understand our paradigm. The first option is easy ... however it is the second option that will make a difference.
I suggest that we have this discussion at the next GLUG meet. There we can listen to all the different viewpoints that we have and reach a consensus. So make sure that you don't miss the next GLUG meet. If you miss the GLUG meet then don't crib that your viewpoint was not taken into consideration. The next GLUG meet is to be held at HBCSE, Mankhurd on 13th April 2003 at 1600 hours. Agenda for the meeting and the directions for HBCSE will be posted on the list and the GLUG site soon.
Happy hacking !! Kapil Karekar - the lonely webmaster of the GLUG site :)) Mail me at: kapil {at} libretech {dot} com