Status Reports

[Jason Pincin <chardros@linuxkb.org>]

I've discussed this before with different people at different times on #seul.  We all
have different opinions, but I think it's time to say we need to start doing this.

It's pretty tough for me, as fearless leader of the project, to do any kind of
coordination of efforts with the severe lack of communication going on between our
developers.  This is not any one person's fault... it's just the way this project has
gone - we're all partly to blame, including myself.  When I get to doing something... I
usually don't talk about it until it's done.  

While that's a good marketing practice... and perhaps M$ could learn a thing or two from
us... it's really not a good practice for us as developers to get into.  Communication
between members of this team is crucial.

So to facilitate that, enough of us have agreed that we need some kind of formal reports
of status.  In no way is this meant to replace endless banter of issues on the list at
all times day and night... it is simply meant to facilitate it - as well as give me the
information I need on a regular basis, in a single email, to understand what each
developr is doing, and what they need to keep doing what they are doing.  

Popular opinion has deemed every two weeks would be good.  I think this is a great
idea... and we'll move towards that... but for the next month, I am pushing for weekly
status reports.  We've all expressed the desire to have something by year's end.  That
isn't too far off.  Weekly reports will get us moving... at least those of us serious
about this project.

If yopu haven't done anything, your status report will simply read: "I've done Nothing".
And then your welcome to provide some type of explanation if it will make yourself feel
better.  :).

Seriously though... I don't think it's too harsh to say that if we get too many of those
types of mails in a row, we will no longer consider you a serious developer... and will
be making important decisions with or without your input.

I'll be adament (sp) about getting my reports in at twice the normal rate.  It's gotta
happen.  Our sponsers and supporters will not go on forever seeing no results.  So lets
go.  Aaron and I are on IRC almost all the time, just waiting for questions to roll in.
I probe email on a VERY regular basis.  If something needs done, or you need a feature...
I WILL drop what I'm doing to fulfill your need if it warrants.

Let the banter begin. 

-- 
Jason
http://vodka.linuxkb.org/~chardros