Re: [fetchmail-users] Fetchmail Socket error on asatellite connection

[Matthias A. <mat...@gm...>]

Rob MacGregor schrieb:

> I'd also say that the FAQ probably needs some updating to make it more
> friendly.  Right now some of the information isn't complete (for
> example, with reference to socket errors it only refers to PPP
> settings) and some is probably out of date (refers to RedHat 6.0 as
> "recent", released AFAIK in 1999).  The G3 section also refers to
> reporting a bug, which likely leads people to ignore it when reporting
> problems.  Finally, it is a single page document and a pretty big one
> at that.  Even I often get frustrated trying to work through it, so I
> may discuss with Matthias my attempting to make it more usable.

You're most welcome on this task - I haven't kept a close eye on what
part of the information is outdated and what not, and I've so far only
removed the most obvious stale stuff.

I'd like your view on this: Should we provide a short (1 - 2 pages if
printed) document on how to get support efficiently" - perhaps along
DJB's[1] lines of 'what did you do, what did the computer do, what did
you expect' - ESR's smart questions is right, but long-winding for
someone who is on the verge of panicking.

I also think if you want to take a stab at splitting the FAQ, we can
arrange for Subversion access with Graham - let's take this part
off-list or to -devel however.

[1] don't mistake that as an appreciation of his support style, I'm just
    quoting one of his frequently asked questions...

> I think however I will, like Matthias, end up having to take a
> somewhat harder line about helping people who don't/won't listen.  It
> would be a shame however - I've been that clueless newbie and know how
> much of a difference it makes to have somebody patiently lead you
> towards enlightenment :)

You'll see I worded carefully to give my *personal* view, without any
hints towards what my right hand of the support should do, and I'd say
do what pleases *you* most, unless it's treating people without dignity.

Being a newbie is one thing, and I'm happy to read questions of the "how
do you mean this and that" kind if my instructions are too terse. But
just ignoring my questions without any response is below the threshold
where I stop caring - generally speaking.

Happy fetching
MA