grg (04/15/83)
It seems that there are (at least) two problems with current network usage;
1) people don't know when to post things to net.sources, that is, when
to share things with the world. It is hard (or impossible) to tell
a-priori what utility or reception a submission will have.
2) The network is memory-less. Someone may post a new CP/M-Unix program,
or smallc, or xlisp this month while I am on vacation, and then
next month I continue watching for it, but it is gone...
So... How about a similar concept to the old IBM SHARE group, where
people submitted abstracts and archives of files, and one could
then shop anytime for anything, anytime. The network can help by providing
shop-at-home service, as well as publishing abstracts as things are added.
I think USENIX is the logical organization to provide the library storage, a
and access. perhaps ultimately an 800 dial in number for members??
Anyway, I think that in 90% of the cases I see what someone wants already
exists, and is available, but there is no link or communication. Perhaps this
would help prevent re-invention of the wheel, and allow the desired
"standing on shoulders, .. not toes".
Comments?
Greg Guthrie
Bell Labs
Internet: grg@ihuxp.UUCP
UUCP: {research,ihnss}!ihuxp!grg
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Naperville, Ill 60566
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