Internetworkers: http://www.ibiblio.org/internetworkers/

[David R.Matusiak <dave AT matusiak.org>]

Steve --

     I think many of us got the sarcasm, but we all know how hard it is 
to
     emote such things via email.  ;)

     Regardless, I see a fantastic opportunity arising out of this 
relatively
     young database discussion.  Namely, an article for the 
InterNetWorkers
     website -- written from the two distinct perspectives that must 
work
     well together in order for any site (database-driven or not) to be 
a
     success.  Basically, a Database Architect and a DHTML GUI expert 
taking
     the time to explain what each needs "on their end" to make sure a 
site
     is functional, reliable and secure.

     I think a document of this nature would be a fantastic resource on 
the
     INW website that many could refer to (both those within the tech 
community
     and those not so well-versed in the techie lingo).  I would guess 
many
     have the same questions and apprehensions as Alan, but not so many 
are
     brave enough to ask in a tech forum of knowledgeable veterans.

     So, let me know if I can do anything to help with this idea.  I'm 
always
     happy to do some proof-reading or help get the ball rolling with
     initial ideas and questions.  We could call on many within our list
     and community to offer their expertise (I know we have at least one
     professional Tech Writer on here!).  The further discussion of this
     topic stands to benefit a great number of people - both here in the
     Triangle and abroad.

     Thanks for your input!
     dave m.

On Monday, October 13, 2003, at 11:50  AM, Steven Champeon wrote:

> on Sun, Oct 12, 2003 at 09:24:25PM -0400, Michael D. Thomas wrote:
> [quoting me]:
> > > Technical inaccuracies in a string of metaphors? Wow. That's pretty
> > > impressive, Michael. Can you also find abuses of poetic license in a
> > > hex dump? ;)
> >
> > Well, since you asked, I'll tell you.
>
> Actually, that was sarcasm intended to make you think about whether or 
> not
> you understood the previous post. Apparently, you missed that, too.
>
> > Don't kid yourself. Metaphors about technologies /can/ be inaccurate 
> > and
> > misleading. Promoting poor technology metaphors is, at best, naive, 
> > and,
> > at worst, irresponsible, dangerous and destructive. Belittling this
> > reality won't change it.
>
> Urm, again, you're missing the point and being needlessly combative and
> literal. I agree with you that good metaphors are vital - if the point
> is to understand the reality they represent more clearly.
>
> The claim at issue here is, however, as you refuse to see, "the mindset
> one may adopt when approaching learning how to use databases has much 
> in
> common with the mindset that one might take towards learning how to 
> play
> guitar - specifically, that you shouldn't fear it, that you can achieve
> basic competence for very simple things rapidly with a little practice,
> and that the basic building blocks you can learn in a day or so will 
> make
> it possible to do many relatively simple things."
>
> That's all.
>
> But I'm terribly sorry to have prompted you to waste so much time 
> trying
> to decapitate this straw man you've built.
>
> Alan, don't let Michael scare you. Have fun, play around a bit, learn
> something. You don't need a license.
>
> Steve