[fsf-community-team] READ ME! Some big changes to the list, that we think will be good. [Process point]

[Holmes Wilson]

Hi everyone,

When the list got started, things tended in a more general free software 
advocacy discussion direction, with a really high level of email traffic.

We've decided to make some changes to turn this into a medium-traffic 
list, focused on a few types of tasks and group discussion about what 
those tasks should be.  From this point on, rotating moderators will do 
pretty aggressive moderation to keep all messages focused in these 
directions (group work, or figuring out how we work).  .

That said, to start with a clean slate we decided to push through the 
vast majority of posts in the moderation queue-- the volume is high, and 
we apologize for that, but we didn't want anyone's contribution to go to 
waste.  In going the moderated route, we're making a commitment to fast 
moderation (2-4 hours max during the day) and apologize for the long queue.

One of the tools we'll be using to keep things focused is a documented 
process in the wiki.  Here's the current plan:

http://groups.fsf.org/wiki/Workflow (also permanently linked below)

One of the main features here are "message types" (like, "submit an 
article" or "draft response" or "process point").  This will help make 
sure that every message really rolls the ball forward, and it will help 
moderators keep list traffic down in as fair as possible a way.

Have a look at these, and add the message type in [] square brackets in 
the subject (thanks for the idea, OsamaKM!)

The moderator role will be a rotating position.  Right now, Holmes 
Wilson (FSF) and Simon Bridge (in New Zealand) will be moderating the 
list (we'd also like to create some responsibility for moderators to 
report to the group).   Anyone interested in volunteering, drop 
address@hidden a line, off list.

Thank you all!
Holmes and Simon