3D ARK : Zero's Mailing List Guide



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ZERO'S MAILING LIST GUIDE

1. Please know the general rules for the list you're on before posting

This means you should know about such things as mandatory subject header keys and if they apply to the list you're on (Hint: This rule applies to the 3D ARK Mailing list).

2. Please follow the general rules for the list you're on when posting

This means that just knowing the rules isn't enough. You need to remember, understand, and abide by them so that the system runs smoothly for everyone. This does not imply a dictatorship. As moderator, I am always open to new ideas or suggestions as to how any of my lists could be improved. Send these suggestions to: zero@3dark.com

3. Please think about and _read_ what you've written before sending

People often write something, hit SEND, and _then_ go back and read it... only to realize something they wrote was unclear or that their message was full of typos. Even when I do follow this policy, I still find mistakes slip by. So, it's not a foolproof system, but it helps.

4. Please be aware of general netiquette before posting or replying

This includes (but is not limited to) such things as:

A) Trimming the text you reply to so that it only includes what you need to make sense.
B) No attachments
C) No flaming
D) DO NOT TYPE IN ALL CAPS
E) If you are someone just starting out and new to a list and you are about to post something that has likely been posted or inquired about before, please contact the moderator about whether there is a list archive or web site where a Frequently Asked Questions list is kept. One of the problems on many mailing lists is the clutter of commonly asked questions and basic issues.

5. Quality of posts is more important than quantity

Please put some thought into your posts before sending them off to the list. If what you have to say isn't really going to benefit someone in some way on this list, you should seriously consider not sending it or rewrite it so that it does.

6. Please be positive

It is so easy to complain about various products or someone else's ideas. If you find yourself with a conflicting opinion, try to say what you have to say in a positive fashion. I'm not suggesting that you should be an "angel". Logical observation and criticism is ok, so long as your intention is to inform people and your goal is an overall positive result. Complaining for the sake of complaining won't do anyone any good.

My point here is that there are ways of getting your point across without bitching or being entirely negative. (There's enough negativity in the world).

And one thing you should never do is criticize something you know nothing about or have any significant experience with. This is important when thinking about criticizing someone's choice of 3D software or operating system.

Each of my lists was created to be a positive force in the 3D community. Following this guideline will help keep them that way.

7. Please keep an open mind

Please remember that E-mail can easily be misinterpreted. If you are unfamiliar with the personality or writing style of someone posting a message, be aware that your perception of this person's "tone" may be quite different than what was intended by the original author.

I have seen a number of people inaccurately accuse some of the nicest and most considerate people of being "arrogant", "conceited", etc., when it was simply a matter of misinterpretation and forgone conclusions. This also strikes a personal chord, as my own writing style and tone has been misinterpreted from time to time.

To immediately judge people based on your interpretation of what they've written or how they come across when they say it is not keeping an open mind.

8. Please be tolerant

Not every message on a given list may be of interest to you. Please be tolerant of the others to whom it is. Please do not attempt to moderate a list by posting your own message saying "End this thread", "Go away", etc. Instead, write to the moderator (my address is: zero@3dark.com) and they will evaluate your case for discontinuing a thread.

If you are concerned about the direction or quality of messages on the list (should they suddenly hold no significance or interested to you), you are always in the position to direct you own discussions. Don't just complain to the list's moderator about it. Take action and lead the way as a good example. You don't have to wait for the odd chance that someone will eventually talk about something that interests you.

9. Never forget, and respect your audience

You're not speaking to only a few people. You're putting your words up in front of 100, 200, 500 people or more who, and despite having an open mind, will begin to form judgements about you. And in most cases, you have no idea who might be listening. This could be a potential employer or someone else important. While it may seem easier to say something in cyber space that you wouldn't be able to say in person, you should still feel accountable for it.

10. Your help and participation on a list makes a difference

Whether you're someone who asks questions or someone who answers them, you deserve a pat on the back for contributing. The information exchanged on these lists really does have an impact on people's lives. While that may seem a bit extreme, I've seen enough folks helped out in a significant way on my lists to know it's true.

I want my lists to stand out among the other resources like them. I think by following some general guidelines as well as with your continued support and input (please feel free to send me list suggestions any time), it can.

Thanks and best regards,

Zero Dean


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