http://www.w3.org/TR/2001/WD-patent-policy-20010816/

Dear W3C:

In regards to: http://www.w3.org/TR/2001/WD-patent-policy-20010816/

I just found out about this to my dismay.  I'll be reading the draft very 
closely.  My first read of it was like reading a steven king book.

What I really don't understand is why do these companies need the W3C for 
this?  Go about and embrace and extend and let us opt to use them or not.  I 
don't understand why they should go through the W3C.

Ironically in its current form this could very well end the W3C.  Who will 
want to make something compliant to a W3C standard if it involves liscensing 
a bunch of other software?

A W3C spokeperson was quoted saying:

"we really want your feedback, but it's
no good sending us e-mail that just says 'DON'T!'.  that doesn't give
us anything to work with in terms of constructive critisism."

For my feedback I'll recommend removing every reference and clause related 
to RAND liscened material and only permitting RFE (royalty free).  Add "Only 
royalty-free liscensed submissions are permitted".  Next as the Q & A part 
suggests the IETEF allows patented submissions.  Direct those who wish to 
submit them to the IETEF as the more appropriate body.

The little patronizing Q & A seemed to say "You're welcome to comment but 
we're going to do this anyhow" and that "We'll keep the old RFE side around 
too".  This is nothing short of a coup de tat with some poor propeganda 
attached.  And we let you know, how shocking no one found out...  I find 
that very suspect.  How is it I find out about submissions before they're 
drafts for things that I don't even care about but no one knew about this?  
I find the behavior of the W3C very deplorable in the handling of this.

I find it really unlikely the consortium will survive should this be 
approved or at least as a respected standards body.

Regards,

Andrew C. Oliver
SuperLink Software, Inc.
www.superlinksoftware.com

_________________________________________________________________
Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com/intl.asp

Received on Tuesday, 2 October 2001 15:34:19 UTC