Bob Braden wrote:
> Mark Adam wrote:
>> Ok... So I'm being a little idealistic, but this is different that just
>> saying "Me too" to the "We ain't makin' widgets" responses. Optimally we
>> should judge the work of a WG based on how well its output is accepted by
>> the world at large, but that's a little late in the process.
> I think this leaves out a very, very important issue -- when you make
> the judgment. A successful IETF output is one that continues to be
> relevant and useful for a long time, and that enables the continued
> flexibility and adaptability of the Internet to the requirements 10
> years down the road. We got where we are today by taking a long
> view... we need to push back against those who would let short-term
> optimizations produce long-term ossification.
I agree, however I wonder if that is still possible now, in this time
where short-term imperatives dominate decision making (particularly where
networking technology is concerned). The IETF was born in a time when
not only was it possible, it was encouraged to take the long-term view.
--gregbo