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Date:      Thu, 25 Mar 1999 10:17:47 -0500 (EST)
From:      "John S. Dyson" <toor@dyson.iquest.net>
To:        dwilde1@thuntek.net (Donald Wilde)
Cc:        dyson@iquest.net, advocacy@FreeBSD.ORG
Subject:   Re: FreeBSD emulation for linux
Message-ID:  <199903251517.KAA06977@dyson.iquest.net>
In-Reply-To: <36FA4F41.8D9FB5FF@thuntek.net> from Donald Wilde at "Mar 25, 99 07:59:13 am"

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>
> I'll make missteps, too, John, so feel free to criticize.
>
It is *easier* to criticise in hindsight.  It is harder to properly
plan ahead.  The key to any such adventure is to understand ones
own initial limitations, and not to *excessively* extend oneself.  A
careful strategy, with the understanding of where learning is needed
is key.

Some of the recent technical mistakes have been made because of people not
knowing their limitations, and fear of using existing resources (probably
due to ego problems.)  If resources are needed, then grab them!!!  FreeBSD
is far beyond where cowboy behavior is acceptable, both in technical and
marketing aspects.  Too many people have invested alot into the product for
it to be "frittered" away.  The codebase is a legacy, and those who take
responsibility for pieces of it should consider the control of that legacy
as solemn.  Hacking should be in the past, and cowboy marketing should also
be taken as a learning experience.

The technical base is pretty good (with bugfixes and minor restructuring
initially seriously being needed.)  Hacking it should require a deep
understanding, with NO exceptions.  The marketing position is much 
weaker (relative to the technical aspects), and that is a major
place for FreeBSD growth.  You are on the leading edge in that effort, and
is an ideal place for personal growth also.

>
> The support is about to grow. Stay tuned!
> 
Again, excellent.  NOT ONLY do I wish you and FreeBSD the best, but
have great interest and caring about it.  My disappointments have been
a result of experience, and understanding the history of FreeBSD and
many previous projects.  History continues to repeat itself, and breaking
that very vicious cycle is the key to FreeBSD's expanding (rather than
contracting.)  Learn from previous mistakes (both other projects, and
FreeBSD's own.)

I strongly feel that you have a great chance of success.

John


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