[Numpy-discussion] Meta: help, devel and stackoverflow

[srean]

> I'm not on the python mailing lists, but my impression is that python
> is in a different space from numpy.  I mean, I have the impression

Indeed one could seek out philosphical differences between different
projects. No two projects are the same but they can and often do have
common issues. About the issues that Fernando mentioned I can say that
they are real, they do apply and this I say from a from the experience
of being on the numpy mailing list.

I think that many silent numpy users will thank the creation of a low
barrier, low noise (noise is context sensitive) forum where they can
ask for help with what they feel are simple questions with easy
answers.

I still do not have a tangible grasp of what your fears are. It seems
you are unhappy that this will split the community. It wont, its just
two lists for the same community where mails have been sorted into
different folders.

It also seems the notion of developers and users is disagreeable to
you and you are philosophically hesitant about accepting/recognizing
that such a difference exists. I may be wrong, I do not intend to
speak for you, I am only trying to understand your objections.

First let me assure you they are labels on (temporary) roles not on a
person (if that is what is making you uncomfortable). Different people
occupy different states for different amounts of time.

 A question about how to run length decode an array of integers is
very different from a question on which files to touch to add
reduceat( ) support to the numexpression engine and how.

It would be strange to take the position that there is no difference
between the nature of these questions. Or to take the position that
the person who is interest in the former is also keen to learn about
the former (note: some would be, example: yours sincerely. I know the
former ot the latter ) or at the least keen on receiving mails on
extended discussion on the topic of lesser interest.

 It seems to me, that sorting these mails into different bins only
improves the contextual signal to noise ratio, which the recipient can
use as he/she feels fit. The only issue is if there will be enough
volume for each of these bins. My perception is yes but this can
certainly be revisited.  In anycase it does not prevent nor hinder any
activity, but allows flexible organization of content should one want
it.

> So, it may not make sense to think in terms of a model that works for Python, or even, IPython.

I do not want to read too much into this, but this I do find kind of
odd and confusing:  to proactively solicit input from other related
projects but then say that do do not apply once the views expressed
werent in total agreement.

This thread is coming close to veer into the
non-technical/non-productive/argumentative zone. The type that I am
fearful off, so I will stop here. But I would encourage you to churn
these views in your mind, impersonally, to see if the idea of
different lists have any merit and to seek out what are the tangible
harm that can come out of it.

I think this request has come before (hasten to add not initiated by
me) and the response had been largely been in favor, but nothing has
happened. So I would welcome information on: if indeed two lists are
to be made, who gets to create those lists

Best,
  srean