Lauren@tgr.UUCP (12/04/84)
The problem of supporting software adquately is, in my opinion, one that is far too frequently just glossed over. Support should really start BEFORE the first copy of a package is sold. That is, if something doesn't work well, it shouldn't be sold at all. As far as my versions of UUCP/mail/netnews are concerned, the main reason I've held off sales is because I, personally, was not satisfied that the functionality I desired was present until very recently. I realize that there are some people that would like to get hold of the software even with less functionality, but I really want to be proud of what I sell, and not have to make excuses about problems that were known in advance. I don't think it's fair to turn customers into unknowing experimental subjects. The issue of documentation is more complex. The package is fairly well self-documenting after installation (at least for normal applications). I still feel that good documentation is very important, but, as I said before, I will be willing to release some copies without fancy docs since I am now pretty happy with the operational aspects of the software. I'm trying to tighten up a few loose ends and then release of the UUCP package on that basis should proceed. I appreciate the words of support from those of you who have expressed interest in my UUCP efforts. You shouldn't have to wait too much longer. Thanks again. --Lauren--