Re: Regarding Asmiov (was: GS Icon file Verifier released)

[rubywand@aol.com (RUBYWAND)]

In article <4t65j3$3k@news.bconnex.net>, jefbla@bconnex.net (Jeff
Blakeney) writes:

rder@pro-palmtree.cts.com (Richard Der) wrote:

>>.... I agree with what you said later in your post about how it would
>>take a lot of effort to contact some of the publishers/authors.
>>It is true that an ftp site does not have the same resources as
>>an online service. They should at least try, however. There is
>>a big difference between not being able to contact the copyright
>>holder and not bother asking.
>
>Agreed, the effort should be made but it will definitely take
>volunteers.  The asimov site is run by one person at present and I'm
>pretty sure he has a full time job that has nothing to do with asimov.
>

     Which means that, at present, Asimov is maintained by a webmaster and
supported by users for _fun_. This is a very efficient arrangement.
Imposing all sorts of constraints = Lots of extra work for someone. People
expect to be paid for _work_. Who will pay? 


>>I also agree that Asimov is in a position to do a useful service
>>for those who have copy protected or dead disks. Consider this,
>>however. If Asimov follows either of the suggestions already
>>proposed: (1) require proof of ownership before giving the user
>>a copy or (2) try their best to contact the author/publisher,
>>they would be legitimized. They would no longer have to hide and
>>their service and could be publicized here in csa2, in magazines,
>>etc. They could thus help more people.

     Admittedly, it is tempting to dream up neat reforms and projects for
_someone else_ to implement.


>
>Okay, I hate to do this but the point has to be raised.  How would you
>go about checking proof of ownership?   Someone mentioned sending in
>your original disk but, and here is the nasty bit, what is to stop
>people from sending in other peoples disks? ....


     More complications.

     If the idea is to create some kind of old software
archive/clearing-house, it may be best to just do it and forget about
messing with the Asimov. Asimov falls short of perfection; but, it remains
the one successful Apple II 'archiving project'. 


Rubywand