🚀 go-pugleaf

kmcvay@oneb.wimsey.bc.ca (Ken Mcvay) writes:

> I don't know how long Tom honours upgrades, but I'll keep my fingers
> crossed - it isn't a _major_ problem, i.e. one I'd pay to fix, given
> the general "waffle avoidance" in this area, which is rich in
> colourful, easy to use, friendly dos-based fidotech bulletin boards.

[quite a bit deleted for no particular reason]

When debating Waffle's interface, I hear the same topics that are often
discussed in the never-ending DOS/Windows debate.  Speed, power,
flexibility, cosmetics, ease of use, user-friendliness.  Which are the
most important?  Well, that all depends on who you talk to.  But, just
as you can't fault DOS for not being Windows (it was never _meant_ to be
Windows!), I really don't think it's fair to fault Waffle for not being
GAP/PCBoard/Opus/RA/QBBS/name-your-fancy-ANSI-interface-BBS.

It reminds me of my 11th grade Engish teacher's rule: When critiquing 
someone else's writing, you can't rewrite.  You can express your opinion 
about what works and what doesn't work.  But, it's considered rude and
presumptuous to say, "Change the ending.  I don't think the dog should
die."

I ran a RemoteAccess BBS for a little over 2 years before switching to 
Waffle.  I lost a lot of users when I switched, but quite honestly I 
wasn't sorry to see most of them go.  And like you, I watch PCBoard 
aficionados log into my BBS and almost sprain their fingers trying to 
get off again as fast as they can.  But the two different BBS packages 
appeal to two very different audiences.  I knew this going into it, and 
I've never been sorry that I made the switch.

One last thought: If the interface is the thing, wouldn't it make more 
sense to spend your time and energy convincing the makers of [insert 
your favorite BBS package here] to add UUCP capabilities to their 
existing product, rather than asking Tom* to rewrite everything he's 
done.

* On re-reading this, I laughed.  I've fallen into the trap!  Have you 
noticed how people often write about "Tom" like he's their closest 
personal friend?  Sorry, Mr. Dell.  I didn't mean to presume... ;-)

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