Treveri posted this over in scream at simu (er, talk to simu). It is on posting in general, not on a specific issue - but definately worth reading.

Category: Suggestions and Improvements
Topic: Talk to Simutronics
Author: DR-TREVERI
Posted: May 09, 1998 11:22:00


Guys, this is off subject, but then it's not.

I'd like to talk about posting please...I can't speak for the other GMs but
I can speak for myself.

When you post, you are obviously trying to get a point across. If you want
people (in particular, me) to read that post then the are things you need
to do. I know this not only as a GM, a person who reads the boards
constantly, but as an ex-player who has done more than his fair share
torpedo launches against Simu.

First of all, you have to realize that Simutronics IS interested in your
opinions. We are. If we weren't we'd do just like so many other companies
out there and just isolate ourselves from you, not read your posts, and not
respond.

Secondly you have to realize that we are in the business of creating
entertainment. That translates to providing "enjoyment/fun". That does
not translate into "easy", "unchallenging", or "simple minded" (no
comments on foraging please! We're working on that! :) ).

Third, we are not "out to screw" the player. That would just be stupid. We
are obligated to maintain balance and game integrity...which means there
are times we have to make decisions that are not popular.

Fourth, there are going to be times when we make decisions, or we introduce
something that is the "first phase" of something bigger that we can't talk
about.

And lastly, there are things we just can't talk about. I am not going to
spend space here explaining why, that should be obvious.

So now, with all that said, when you post here, if you want to get my
attention (again, I'm just speaking for me)...write clearly and concisely.

A good outline is;

A) What the problem is.

B) How it is effecting you. (including detailed examples)

C) Why you think it needs to be changed.

Make sure your posts use paragraphs. My eyes just glaze over when I see
three screens full of a single paragraph...in fact, there are enough posts
here on a given topic, I usually just hit the "NEXT MESSAGE" button when I
see one of those messages.

Don't post in IC. I will try to read the first few lines, but if I find it
too difficult to read, "NEXT MESSAGE" button.

If your message wants my attention, don't go off for four pages on how
Simutronics has done it again, and how we don't know what we're doing and
how we're just out to screw everyone. The instant I see that, I realize
the message isn't directed at me, it's directed at the other players. I am
certainly not telling you that you shouldn't or can't post those types of
posts...Simutronics has always invited criticism and I see no indication
they are going to change their position. But I decide, as the reader, if
the post is directed at Simu or if it is posted for the player's benefit
and move on accordingly. :)

Also, there is a point in time where there are enough posts about the same
problem or issue. An "I agree." post is all that is necessary from that
point on. You can be sure we've got the point and are looking at it.

:P

Treveri