[odf-discuss] GNOME Foundation Statement on ECMA TC45-M Participation

[Lars Noodén]

That one shouldn't have gotten through but it did...

Jeff Waugh wrote:
> ...
> Here's what we didn't say: We didn't say that OOXML should be voted down
> because "there should only be one standard". OOXML should be voted down for
> all kinds of reasons, *but not that one*. 

Actually it is rather a bizarre oversight, given the established
practice in computer standards and, especially, ISO's own policy of "One
standard, one test - Accepted everywhere"

> ... We're not going to take an extreme
> ...

Watch the name calling, please, if you wish to continue here.

> ...

Given that GNOME's "position" appears to be backing the MS "two
specifications" tactic, it is a legitimate criticism.

Please note that ISO itself has a policy of one standard per area and it
is GNOME that appears in that regard to have the unreasonable position.

Given that the primary (perhaps even sole) opponent to open standards is
the only other one pushing that line, it at the least, looks suspicious
for GNOME to

The 5th item in the GNOME press release really does leave a lot of room
for misinterpretation.  The followup responses from the GNOME
representatives to seem to clarify GNOME's position, and it appears that
it is the intent to cause misinterpretation and to work to dividing the
market.

I have been steering folks towards other solutions for the technical
advantages, but now there are tactical reasons as well.  Now I know to
step up the emphasis and include steering folks away from GNOME as big a
reason.

Regards
-Lars