Replying on the net vs. replying by mail
u1100a!sdo
the-answer" in various newsgroups. In particular, I had to wade through
ten of the same reply to a question in net.rec.photo, which I had
already replied to by mail. I know everyone needs to prove that they
are smart and know the answers, but if the proper procedures are followed,
you will get your recognition, and I will be spared reading the same thing
over and over.
Isn't it proper netiquette to mail answers to the originator who then
posts a collection of responses? This person can include the names
of all those who responded so that they get their credit.
I'm only talking about the narrow case of a specific question being
asked, such as "What were the words to that theme song for that TV show
in 1962?" or "How do I kill a Troll with just an dart?"
Anything which doesn't have a clear answer or needs some discussion
or presents some safety issue should remain public.
Since this may need some discussion, please use net.followup for
non-trivial, non-defamatory, flameless replies. The rest you can
mail to me. (And, yes, I thought this was important enough for
net.general.)
Scott Orshan
Bell Labs Piscataway
201-981-3064
houxm!u1100a!sdo