Date : Tue, 06 Aug 1996 12:20:40 +0200
From : Robert Schmidt <rsc@...>
Subject: Re: Suggestion: comp.sys.acorn group for 8-bit micros [Was: Re: BBC-B doesn't work anymore.]
P. Emery wrote:
> I was trying to say that more groups means more crossposts. An 8-bit group
> will probably have a small readership and anyone with a big problem will
> crosspost it to one of the other acorn groups to increase the chances of
> getting a reply.
That's what people have to do now, since there's no 8-bit forum, so I think that
the level of 8-bit crossposts will go down, and single posts about 8-bit Acorns
are more likely to end up in a right place, with the right crowd. In addition,
the traffic on the existing mailing lists can be centralized in a more readily
available way, both serious questions and smalltalk.
> > What is the point of having a .misc group anyway? (Except discussions like
> > these...)
>
> Creating a single newsgroup for 8-bit computers is akin to creating a .misc
> group, but for a smaller readership, because all types of 8-bit postings
> will go there. Eventually, people get tired of sifting through all the
> various different subjects. Where does it stop? c.s.a.8-bit.apps?
> c.s.a.8-bit.hardware?
There is a limit to how many subjects you need to sift before you "get tired".
I don't think anyone expects .8bit to reach "tireing" volumes. It's a special
interests group for hackers who still have their Electrons, BBCs or Masters
alive, and for nostalgic people playing around with emulators. 10 years ago,
.8bit.apps and .8bit.hardware would have bee a matter of course, because of the
greater interest.
Now we are experiencing a boost in interest, because of the release of several
decent emulators. I'm experiencing it myself, as the maintainer of set of web
pages on the BBC. I think this warrants the creation of the group. Maybe I'm
wrong - there's hardly been any other serious supporters visible yet except me -
but I'd at least like to see this through a voting period sometime this autumn.
> > The people who post wrongly, or crosspost to .misc, are usually new to the
> > hierarchy. After some time, those who stick around will become regulars and
> > post to the proper newsgroup.
>
> This is true, but new people are subscribing all the time so the problem
> never goes away.
Also true. This problem does, however, apply to any and all group creations.
> .misc is the main forum of the c.s.a. groups. A hell of a lot of very
> useful information (and some very amusing flame wars) pass through it. To
> imply it has no purpose is, IMHO, just plain wrong.
OK, I take that back. I do maintain my position that more groups in such a
clear hierarchy can only add order, not disorder. Of course, there has to be
enough support for the new group(s) to warrant the creation, but that's for the
voting - not for us individuals - to decide.
> P.S. Don't take any of this personally, Robert! I'm just arguing my corner.
Heh... how can one take this personally? It's just a group...
We have plenty of time, and if I feel the demand for the group is not in
majority, I have no problem with resting the case. In the last few days, you're
the sole opposer, while several have said something like "cool idea". I prefer
an opponent with arguments, to supportive, but silent pats on the back... :)
--
Robert Schmidt <rsc@... >
Software Developer / Vingmed Sound tel +47 67124237 fax +47 67124355
Private tel +47 22352293 WWW http://www.nvg.unit.no/~rsc
It is easier to get forgiveness than permission.