xml-dev - Open Standards Processes (WAS Re: Nesting XML based languages and scri

[len bullard <cbullard@hiwaay.net>]

Don Park wrote:
> 
> What I am saying is this: closed WG like XSL WG should release interim specs
> more frequently (i.e. 3 months).  I believe I have some probability of
> competing with a small MS team even if they were given 3 months of lead time
> (after all I do have the strength of ten men and can leap over reasonably
> tall structures after a good meal ;-).  I do not believe I can if they have
> one year of lead time.

This is an old gripe of mine about the XML process as 
conducted by this effort.  It is not open.  That has 
troubled me from the beginning because it is an open 
effort to replace an open standard, SGML, with a closed 
standard, XML.  It is a horrible precedent even if a successful 
one.
 
Because as demonstrated amply by WWW projects, running code 
does indeed out-colonize standards efforts, no one can deny 
the need for standards bodies to work with consortiums.  It 
is now established practice.  Still:

o  Consortia are responsible to their members:  companies.  
o  ISO is responsible to its members:  countries.

IMO, ISO must be the party that insists on and ensures
openness because I do not think consortia can to the 
degree which will satisfy your real and legitimate 
complaint.  

VRML has a consortium, but the language standard is ISO. 

o  Consortia and list/volunteer labor.  Ensures systemic 
   applicability.

o  ISO processes for drafting and approving authoritative 
   language.  Ensures contractual stability.

o  All drafts posted to the web at all times.  Anyone can 
   read and anyone can contribute.  Only a few people edit 
   and ISO makes the rules for these people, not the consortia.
   Ensures openness and "a level playing field".

If people can't work inside that open a system, they should 
not be empowered to draft language, chair committees, or vote.

Len Bullard

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