Is this because most list-members (on LBO or PEN-L) are already involved in using such tools in other forums? Or other sources exist for the same sort of information? (Why a separate "left" Wiki when you can just contribute to Wikipedia?)
Or are these mostly toys that will not serve any productive need?
Is it a steep learning curve or lack of time?
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Some list members - such as yours truly - are, as you suggest, already involved with these tools in other forums.
But my intuition tells me this is true for only a small minority.
As you know, even the best designed, most 'user friendly' software tools tend to eat a lot of time and require a knack for working through the inevitable idiosyncrasies. Not everyone has the time or the patience (not to mention the inclination) to wrestle with an interface.
And as Chuck points out, success tends to be built upon the tireless efforts of a cadre of super dedicated and ultra competent volunteers (which is the case, again, per Chuck, with the ever-better Wikipedia).
I don't think these platforms are "toys" - or at least, they're not always toys. They can be very useful if smartly used. What's an example of a smart use? The already mentioned Wikipedia is one, the System Annoyances wikis I've created for a few clients might be considered another - that is, gathering accurate (and evolving) descriptions and explanations of various subjects.
I suspect an LBO wiki, blog, social networking site, etc would attract tech-head list members, at least for a while, but put off many others and also, I don't think it would work as an almost real-time info sharing/debating tool the way a listserv can.
Echoing Jordan, I think simple is best for what we're (ideally) trying to do here - exchange ideas and rally energies. And by "simple" I mean plain text emailing to a list with a searchable archive.
.d.
I never liked you Rusty...you were always a smart alec, a sass mouth and a bit of a giggle puss.
Dr. Impossible
...................... http://monroelab.net/blog/