Project leads must make sure that specifications are made before coding starts.
Test should primarily (but not entirely) be concerned with how the systems should work -- and they need to verify that the specifications are complete and usable. This means bringing test (tester/VV&T) on before coding starts.
Developers must develop to those specifications.
If something changes, the PM should OK a specification change. No unilatteral code changes. Keep in mind that this does not eliminate creativity, it does mean that if some new feature is added it gets doccumented and tested. A bad PM will not be flexible on this point. A bad developer will ignore the process. One can lead to the other.
Initially, developers will not like it -- and some parts they will never like (the extra paper work, someone finding stupid errors constantly...). In the end, few will hate the idea and most will like the benifits...even if it is annoying at times.
Can there be exceptions to any of this? There will be -- but keep the exceptions rare. A good ballence is important.
Also check the how well specialized applications under wine. Don't just read the ranking in the codewearvers database: actually use it.
Very good point. While it is less true then it used to be, Wine versions should be thought of as vintages; one revision might work better with a specific app. If it doesn't work with one revision, try another. Also, quite a few problems can be solved by using/not using desktop or managed modes, and checking your fonts. The FAQ-o-matic available on the main winehq.org site is invaluable for common and not so common problems.
If you have quite a few client machines that use a specific custom application, consider using Winelib to port it. One company even turned a Windows-based custom sign editor into a web-based one -- something that's not available under Windows itself.
Finally, I can't help but give a plug to Codeweavers. Crossover plugin (browsers) and Crossover Office are your friends. If you need help with some custom app conversion, Codeweavers and other Wine gurus might just have the time to help you out.
Re:Slashdot - Welcome To The New Age Of Adverticle
on
The Indie Game Jam
·
· Score: 1
1 of 5 people are assholes at any given time. Often it's the same people. Get more people together you'll notice more of them since they stand out and make themselves known.
Frankly, I really hope that two people can have this same conversation about countries based on religious fundamentalism in XX years. Those never make much sense to me either.
Agreed. As soon as one religion becomes dominate they'll be able to have a non-hostile conversation. Then, it'll start all over again. The positive thing about having no one global religion is that it keeps the radicals in check. Also, I've found that people tend to get most upset with those who almost agree with them...but not quite.
In all seriousness, did communism (as a social/economic system) ever make sense to you? Well before the Soviet Block fell, reading about it in high school -- let alone college -- left me wondering...why? How? It's kind of like the underwear gnomes on South Park: 1. Get underwear. 2. ??????? 3. Profit!.
I'll grant only one exception: kabutz (sp?) and other small-scale commune systems with unforced and willing participants. On a larger scale, where the members aren't as willing (or are forced to be willing), it never made sense to me. Where's the personal motivation?
Capitalism isn't perfect, and often nasty, but it does have some major built-in personal motivators.
Did you even bother to read the article? He wasn't being investigated becuase he was against nuclear weapons. And they just didn't "assume" he was a communist. He, in all actuality, was a communist. If you read the article, you would know that he was affiliated with 34 communist front groups between 1937-1954, and was a chairman in three of those groups. The government had every right to be suspicious about him. Read the article before you rant about something you have no clue about.
Yeah, Communism is so obviously an effective threat against Capitalism that it was...erm...never mind.
Re:RealNames founder sez M$ will roll out their ow
on
RealNames Closing Shop
·
· Score: 2
Why am I not surprised at this?
Agreed. MS has integrated much more complex ideas in the past. This one is trivial if MS wants to do it themselves -- and MS doesn't need to muck with any kind of expensive and awkward transition by buying RealNames.
The first time I've seen Compuserve written like that is by you - mind you I don't often see the word Compuserve at all!
I remember Compuserve was often referred to as Compu$erve -- when it was the dominate losed online service~. They and AOL made insane amounts of money off of some people. Often hundreads and sometimes thousands a month.
So, calling the $ as in M$ old is right on target. It's accurate, but still old.
~. Before Internet became what people refer to as online.
If you type a word into (spit) IE6 it redirects you to msn search for the terms. *Really* annoying when you just misspelt something, and it doesn't give you a chance to correct it, destroying the URL.
Does IE6 give you an option to change the search engine it points to? (I don't use Windows, so I'm curious.)
So, what would I do? I would go to Google and type in cookies there. That's it.
Mozilla/NS6.2+ almost has this;
Click in Location field.
Type in cookies.
Below the Location field, this string appears;
Search Google for "Cookies"
Press down arrow and press enter to search.
(Q. Is the default Google now, or still Netscape's search? It's been so long.)
Personally I like the default behavior; typing in cookies sends you to "cookies.com". If it used a search engine instead, you'd have to click another link to get to the site you wanted...or you'd have to type the whole URL (no biggie, but why bother?).
:) On that note...running ldd under Linux against a compiled app will show what libs it needs. There's got to be a dozen similar ways to find the same information under Windows.
Because of that, it's not necessary to include all of glibc but it's probably smart to include some other libs to cover the case that the customer doesn't have the more specialized libs you expect. So, to cut down on the bundled libs, it's simple: Compile dynamic, and before shipping check to see if any libs need to be compiled in.
So how do you educate your user? Make it an active part of the installation process.
The user downloads the WidgetMeister app to view their favorite widgets. During the install of the app, it notifies the user that WidgetMeister is ad supported software and is sponsored by several software packages. List the packages. Explain their use. Give the user a chance to not install specific components, or abort completely.
Agreed. Specifically, show all parts that will be installed and allow the user to uncheck any of them. Briefly describe each part if highlighted.
Just like any other program, if the user unchecks a part that is "necessary", warn them about what will/will not work and why. If there's an ad-free version, this is the time to promote it or offer the option to upgrade on the spot.
The public source version of Virtual U is now available and provides access to the very source code and source elements (i.e. graphics, sound, etc.) that comprise the actual Virtual U program. This source code is available for free for non-commercial purposes. Licensing of the source code will be made available to commercial interests (be they commercialized interests on behalf of public/private institutions, or industrial entities). All interested licensees of the source code can contact Ben Sawyer at bsawyer@virtual-u.org for more information.
...
Why isn't there a Macintosh version of Virtual U?
Our development team was skilled with Windows programming and thus Virtual U was originally developed for Microsoft Windows. Due to some of the proprietary graphics features and programming used to create Virtual U's unique graphical interface, it wasn't possible during the development of the first version to do a Macintosh version of the software. However, hope to eventually port Virtual U to the Macintosh. We are actively looking for volunteers who wish to port the core simulation kernal to the Macintosh and create a graphical interface suitable to the Macintosh. If you are interested in working with us on this, please contact Ben Sawyer at bsawyer@virtual-u.org.
Why doesn't Virtual U run on Windows NT?
In order to display its graphics, Virtual U uses a special graphical programming API (application programming interface) known as DirectX. Windows NT is only compatible with DirectX 3.0 while Virtual U requires DirectX 6.1 or higher. Because Microsoft never updated DirectX for the NT platform, Virtual U doesn't work with Windows NT. Windows 2000, the upgrade to Windows NT, supports DirectX 7 and higher and thus is compatible with Virtual U.
Rep's first name is [XXXXX]'ed out. Otherwise, this is untouched;
----------
Thank you for contacting Best Buy about this store shopping experience. I'm [XXXX] with Customer Care.
We understand that hearing a statement like this can be difficult.
To accurately respond to your e-mail, we have forwarded your message to the Best Buy Consumer Relations department. Our Consumer Relations Representatives are specially trained to resolve any questions or concerns you may have about shopping at a Best Buy retail store along with many of the services Best Buy offers. You may expect to receive a response from your Consumer Relations Representative shortly.
Thank you for sharing your comments with Best Buy. Please do not hesitate to contact us with additional questions or concerns.
Best wishes from Best Buy, [xxxx] and the Customer Care Team
I sent BB.com & BB stores email...
on
Worst Buy
·
· Score: 2
...asking if what I heard was true.
Want to do the same?
Vast quantities of PCs are sold wither with bullshit "recovery disks" or no backup media AT ALL. In the Win95 days they actually asked you to supply 35 or so floppies to back up the copy of Win95 that was on the HD! So it makes zero sense to ask recipients to ask for original media.
Logically, I agree with you. OTOH, MS might be trying to discourage reuse of donated machines -- knowing that Windows pre-loaded systems don't usually ship with media. By doing so, they are more likely to get a new sale, either in the form of a boxed copy of Windows or on a new machine.
Anyway, who cares? If the OS license is somehow wrong or expired, then wouldn't this be an opportunity for the linux horde to march in? I don't see why this is bad.
Agreed. I'd like to see more native educational software -- like GCompris and others for young kids through teens. Baring that, Codeweavers and Transgaming should consider support for Windows programs under Wine. There are ways Windows programs can be installed using Wine that just aren't available or are prohibitive using Windows.
"David Hawkes of Cadlink technologies made the next presentation, "A unique application for wine". His company, Signtopia, has a product called Signlab, which is a windows application for designing signs. They wanted to make it available to their customers over the web. They looked into many other solutions such as terminal server, Citrix, Graphon, and a rewrite in Java. Due to licensing concerns, they decided to use Wine and VNC. Some of the limitations were Wine's slow startup and some visual glitches. To get around this, they use a number of pre-started wine sessions and they removed the UI and made the application work from a web form. To improve the performance, they moved to Tight VNC and provided some sponsorship for the development.
Since they are going to be using thier MS certifications in an MS environment, it might be good to introduce some Unix-style tools available for Windows like those in Cygwin.
The only downside to this is that those unfamiliar with modern Unix-like systems might see Cygwin as all that Unix is. I've had some Cygwin users insist to me that Linux really should have a GUI, for example.
so where's my fix?Right in front of you. It's called the Enter key:o)
Seriously, though, you can use the entire Windows UI without touching the mouse (which is useful when my hamster's batteries die). Learn to love the keyboard.
I'd like to know the answer too (as using the keyboard isn't an answer).
While I agree that they should be given some slack. Since I'm not a copyright holder or a Lindows beta tester what I say means jack, ofcourse.
They have distributed a binary that came from GPLed source. The GPL requires that those who recieve the binaries must be given the source if they request it.
I don't think that they should be hounded and harrased, but they should also make a good faith gesture to show that Lindows inc. is not (as one person has said) a leach. With this being an issue now, they should do something more positive to show that they respect these licences.
But this begs the question... has any individual who spent the $99 asked Lindows for the source to the programs they received? I realize the FSF is asking for it, but did they purchase the product? The GPL does not require that you give away your code for free to anyone who asks for it, only to those who you distributed the binary.
Exactly. I have yet to see anyone else mention this...
Slashdot Mirror
Project leads must make sure that specifications are made before coding starts.
Test should primarily (but not entirely) be concerned with how the systems should work -- and they need to verify that the specifications are complete and usable. This means bringing test (tester/VV&T) on before coding starts.
Developers must develop to those specifications.
If something changes, the PM should OK a specification change. No unilatteral code changes. Keep in mind that this does not eliminate creativity, it does mean that if some new feature is added it gets doccumented and tested. A bad PM will not be flexible on this point. A bad developer will ignore the process. One can lead to the other.
Initially, developers will not like it -- and some parts they will never like (the extra paper work, someone finding stupid errors constantly...). In the end, few will hate the idea and most will like the benifits...even if it is annoying at times.
Can there be exceptions to any of this? There will be -- but keep the exceptions rare. A good ballence is important.
Very good point. While it is less true then it used to be, Wine versions should be thought of as vintages ; one revision might work better with a specific app. If it doesn't work with one revision, try another. Also, quite a few problems can be solved by using/not using desktop or managed modes, and checking your fonts. The FAQ-o-matic available on the main winehq.org site is invaluable for common and not so common problems.
If you have quite a few client machines that use a specific custom application, consider using Winelib to port it. One company even turned a Windows-based custom sign editor into a web-based one -- something that's not available under Windows itself.
Finally, I can't help but give a plug to Codeweavers. Crossover plugin (browsers) and Crossover Office are your friends. If you need help with some custom app conversion, Codeweavers and other Wine gurus might just have the time to help you out.
1 of 5 people are assholes at any given time. Often it's the same people. Get more people together you'll notice more of them since they stand out and make themselves known.
Agreed. As soon as one religion becomes dominate they'll be able to have a non-hostile conversation. Then, it'll start all over again. The positive thing about having no one global religion is that it keeps the radicals in check. Also, I've found that people tend to get most upset with those who almost agree with them...but not quite.
In all seriousness, did communism (as a social/economic system) ever make sense to you? Well before the Soviet Block fell, reading about it in high school -- let alone college -- left me wondering...why? How? It's kind of like the underwear gnomes on South Park: 1. Get underwear. 2. ??????? 3. Profit!.
I'll grant only one exception: kabutz (sp?) and other small-scale commune systems with unforced and willing participants. On a larger scale, where the members aren't as willing (or are forced to be willing), it never made sense to me. Where's the personal motivation?
Capitalism isn't perfect, and often nasty, but it does have some major built-in personal motivators.
Yeah, Communism is so obviously an effective threat against Capitalism that it was...erm...never mind.
Agreed. MS has integrated much more complex ideas in the past. This one is trivial if MS wants to do it themselves -- and MS doesn't need to muck with any kind of expensive and awkward transition by buying RealNames.
I remember Compuserve was often referred to as Compu$erve -- when it was the dominate losed online service~ . They and AOL made insane amounts of money off of some people. Often hundreads and sometimes thousands a month.
So, calling the $ as in M$ old is right on target. It's accurate, but still old.
~. Before Internet became what people refer to as online.
Does IE6 give you an option to change the search engine it points to? (I don't use Windows, so I'm curious.)
Mozilla/NS6.2+ almost has this;
Click in Location field.
Type in cookies.
Below the Location field, this string appears;
Search Google for "Cookies"
Press down arrow and press enter to search.
(Q. Is the default Google now, or still Netscape's search? It's been so long.)
Personally I like the default behavior; typing in cookies sends you to "cookies.com". If it used a search engine instead, you'd have to click another link to get to the site you wanted...or you'd have to type the whole URL (no biggie, but why bother?).
The more sunshine management spreads around, the more likely rain is in the forcast.
:) On that note...running ldd under Linux against a compiled app will show what libs it needs. There's got to be a dozen similar ways to find the same information under Windows.
Because of that, it's not necessary to include all of glibc but it's probably smart to include some other libs to cover the case that the customer doesn't have the more specialized libs you expect. So, to cut down on the bundled libs, it's simple: Compile dynamic, and before shipping check to see if any libs need to be compiled in.
ldd output;
The user downloads the WidgetMeister app to view their favorite widgets. During the install of the app, it notifies the user that WidgetMeister is ad supported software and is sponsored by several software packages. List the packages. Explain their use. Give the user a chance to not install specific components, or abort completely.
Agreed. Specifically, show all parts that will be installed and allow the user to uncheck any of them. Briefly describe each part if highlighted.
Just like any other program, if the user unchecks a part that is "necessary", warn them about what will/will not work and why. If there's an ad-free version, this is the time to promote it or offer the option to upgrade on the spot.
What is the public source version of Virtual U?
The public source version of Virtual U is now available and provides access to the very source code and source elements (i.e. graphics, sound, etc.) that comprise the actual Virtual U program. This source code is available for free for non-commercial purposes. Licensing of the source code will be made available to commercial interests (be they commercialized interests on behalf of public/private institutions, or industrial entities). All interested licensees of the source code can contact Ben Sawyer at bsawyer@virtual-u.org for more information.
...
Why isn't there a Macintosh version of Virtual U?
Our development team was skilled with Windows programming and thus Virtual U was originally developed for Microsoft Windows. Due to some of the proprietary graphics features and programming used to create Virtual U's unique graphical interface, it wasn't possible during the development of the first version to do a Macintosh version of the software. However, hope to eventually port Virtual U to the Macintosh. We are actively looking for volunteers who wish to port the core simulation kernal to the Macintosh and create a graphical interface suitable to the Macintosh. If you are interested in working with us on this, please contact Ben Sawyer at bsawyer@virtual-u.org.
Why doesn't Virtual U run on Windows NT?
In order to display its graphics, Virtual U uses a special graphical programming API (application programming interface) known as DirectX. Windows NT is only compatible with DirectX 3.0 while Virtual U requires DirectX 6.1 or higher. Because Microsoft never updated DirectX for the NT platform, Virtual U doesn't work with Windows NT. Windows 2000, the upgrade to Windows NT, supports DirectX 7 and higher and thus is compatible with Virtual U.
Would a program removing Ad-Aware would be circumvention device too? The only thing we are missing now are Spock, Kirk, and some androids.
Rep's first name is [XXXXX]'ed out. Otherwise, this is untouched;
----------
Thank you for contacting Best Buy about this store shopping experience. I'm
[XXXX] with Customer Care.
We understand that hearing a statement like this can be difficult.
To accurately respond to your e-mail, we have forwarded your message to the
Best Buy Consumer Relations department. Our Consumer Relations
Representatives are specially trained to resolve any questions or concerns
you may have about shopping at a Best Buy retail store along with many of
the services Best Buy offers. You may expect to receive a response from your
Consumer Relations Representative shortly.
Thank you for sharing your comments with Best Buy. Please do not hesitate to
contact us with additional questions or concerns.
Best wishes from Best Buy,
[xxxx] and the Customer Care Team
Go here to send a note to Best Buy .com.
Go here to send a note to Best Buy stores.
Adding a link or a sample of the stories told here might not be a bad idea.
Well, sadly, that explains laws like the DMCA.
Logically, I agree with you. OTOH, MS might be trying to discourage reuse of donated machines -- knowing that Windows pre-loaded systems don't usually ship with media. By doing so, they are more likely to get a new sale, either in the form of a boxed copy of Windows or on a new machine.
Anyway, who cares? If the OS license is somehow wrong or expired, then wouldn't this be an opportunity for the linux horde to march in? I don't see why this is bad.
Agreed. I'd like to see more native educational software -- like GCompris and others for young kids through teens. Baring that, Codeweavers and Transgaming should consider support for Windows programs under Wine. There are ways Windows programs can be installed using Wine that just aren't available or are prohibitive using Windows.
Example: Creating a VNC-style applet to embed in a web page -- webifying an existing Windows program: Signtopia's use of Wine to embed thier Windows app in a web page. Here's an excerpt;
The only downside to this is that those unfamiliar with modern Unix-like systems might see Cygwin as all that Unix is. I've had some Cygwin users insist to me that Linux really should have a GUI, for example.
Seriously, though, you can use the entire Windows UI without touching the mouse (which is useful when my hamster's batteries die). Learn to love the keyboard.
I'd like to know the answer too (as using the keyboard isn't an answer).
There are other gaming libraries available. If DirectX went away, it wouldn't matter one nit.
They have distributed a binary that came from GPLed source. The GPL requires that those who recieve the binaries must be given the source if they request it.
I don't think that they should be hounded and harrased, but they should also make a good faith gesture to show that Lindows inc. is not (as one person has said) a leach. With this being an issue now, they should do something more positive to show that they respect these licences.
That is interesting. While I think the renaming they're doing is at a minimum tacky, it's not against the GPL.
Exactly. I have yet to see anyone else mention this...