[gfsd]Re: Directory preamble

[Janet Casey]

   Janet Casey <address@hidden> wrote:

   > This Directory is meant to consist of reasonably complete packages
   > only. We want to present the best of free software with a high degree
   > of usability. If you consider your package to be an alpha or beta
   > release, please think carefully before entering it in our Directory.
   > We realize that there are some programs that although technically not
   > stable releases, still work quite well. We would certainly take these.
   > However, if your package is not complete, we would ask that you either
   > hold off entering it in the Directory until it is complete or that you
   > consider merging it with an existing free software package to
   > strengthen both packages.

   Is there a way we can accept write ups of alpha and beta code, and put it
   in, say, a subdirectory.

   I am worried that some developer might have a beta program, come to enter
   it our Free Software Directory, and then say: "Oh, I can't enter it now",
   but then forget to ever come back.

   Can we somehow collect entries, keep them seperate, and then include them
   later (maybe even allowing people to keep their beta entry updated as they
   move from beta to full release).

1. The original purpose of the Directory was to have completed
   packages. Do we want to change this? 

   I want to have only good quality, currently maintained packages. My
   concern is the the subdirectory might become a graveyard for
   packages that someone starts but nevers finishes. I don't think that
   would look good for the FSF.

2. If we keep the Directory prominent on the Website, there will be
   less of a chance people will forget about it, although this is a
   legitimate concern.

3. If we do decide to have a place for alphas/betas, perhaps we should
   have guidelines about currency.

4. I don't think (from my extensive technical experience <g>) that it
   would be that hard to add a subdirectory for alphas/betas.



Janet Casey
Free Software Foundation
http://www.gnu.org
address@hidden