Re: [xml-dev] Re: Abuse of this list

[Jonathan Robie <jonathan.robie@redhat.com>]

Michael Kay wrote:
> Well, if you Google for Saxon you will find my pages listed alongside
> advertisements linking to my competitors. In fact, even SourceForge do that,
> as do my publishers, Wiley. I don't like it much, but I can live with it. 
> I'm not saying it's good, I'm just saying it's a game that everyone plays.
>   

I don't think the gripes on this list are primarily about search engine 
optimization in general, I think everyone understands that's part of 
everyday business. And when you think about what terms people might 
search for, the names of your competitors are fair game, IMHO.

I'm less comfortable with a web site massively appropriating data 
created by others for the purpose of improving search engine ratings, 
and without the permission or prior knowledge of the content creators.  
Is that really a game everyone plays? I think many companies would be 
very uncomfortable doing that. I also don't think it's good for users of 
the Internet. When I search for a resource, I'd like to be able to find 
the original, not some modified copy that's covered with proprietary 
advertisements, or an outdated copy. Can you give me some examples of 
web sites by other reputable companies who are doing similar things on a 
similar scale?

> I agree that adding links to the text feels worse than putting ads in the
> margin, but it's just a matter of degree. Everyone is shouting ever louder
> to be heard above the noise. And you never know, the seller in the fruit
> market who shouts his wares the loudest might actually have some good
> tomatoes on offer.
>   

I think Progress / DataDirect / Stylus have excellent tomatoes.

Most people who have contributed to this thread seem to think that the 
approach they are taking to making noise violates at least common 
courtesy, especially when they alter our messages.

Jonathan