Dear Community Members,
Over the last few years, Simple Machines has grown significantly, and with growth come new challenges to overcome. Our commitment and dedication to ensuring a professional, high quality, and stable release requires us to occasionally take a step back and look at what is and is not working. In order to address those challenges and improve our workflow, we are restructuring our team to better prepare for our future endeavors and place people within the organization where they are best suited to achieve our goals.
We aim to make this transition as efficient as possible to the general public; however as with any reorganization, we expect a few speed bumps along the way and we ask for your patience and understanding. This move will allow us to improve our development process and get back on track for releasing the Gold Release of SMF 2.0 as soon as possible, as well as allow our core developers to concentrate on the future of Simple Machines and producing quality products beyond a bulletin board system.
2010 is going to be a great year for Simple Machines, SMF and this community. Already with some changes in place, we have many exciting announcements to be made, and a lot of impressive work to show. We have positioned ourselves to ensure the continuation of the Simple Machines project against personal advancement and individual gain, ensuring we are protecting the very foundation of what we are, a team driven project.
We know some of you may have some questions, so below is a quick Q&A.
Question: Will SMF go paid, or is it in the works?
Answer: No, SMF will ALWAYS be FREE (http://www.simplemachines.org/community/index.php?topic=16971.msg140624#msg140624).
Question: Why are Simple Machines not embracing the free software movement, with licenses and an open structure?
Answer: We are always looking to improve our operation. Part of the recent proceedings have been to put the appropriate people in place to properly research and evaluate moves to less restrictive licensing, and more open structuring. We hope to post our findings and evaluate later on.
Thank you,
The Simple Machines Team
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conspiracy_of_silence_(expression) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conspiracy_of_silence_(expression))
QuoteAvoidance of recognition of some problem - for example Gulf War syndrome or the like - in order to officially bury (hide) a possible problem and thus avoid accusations, investigations or liability.
Have a nice day. :)
This is a very general thread about this.
Is there a more in depth thread somewere about the Simple Machines Restructuring.
Frank
Quote from: tumbleweed on January 19, 2010, 01:25:46 PM
Is there a more in depth thread somewere about the Simple Machines Restructuring.
More details about the restructuring will be released as we move forward with progress. This thread is to address the many rumors already around that SMF is on its way down.
Edit: Clarity
will be watching this thread..
Good luck
btw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QHFK1yKfiGo
great song :)
Simple Machines Restructuring ??
inside or outside ?
Inside.
Good luck.
Good luck. Anything for the community :)
Good luck.
Good luck!
Good luck to the team, and most of all the community.
Good luck SMF! Still remain the best forum package out there today!
Good Luck smf ;)
Neat!!
maybe more positions opening up and new opportunities for all!!! ;)
Congrats O:)
Good luck! ;)
Regards,
-=[Vyorel]=-
Good luck ....
I'm always will be a SMF lover! best forum package ever!
Good luck to the Community, i hope you survive. We all love the software.
Luck will have nothing to do with it.
This is going to need blood, sweat and a few tears.
Do we ALL have the fortitude?
Yeah, I think so.
Best of luck, SMF. :)
We're all behind of you guys at SMF. I thank all who contributed to make what SMF is now known as. Good luck within the future. :)
Simple Machines Restructuring
Team Based? or Software Based? :P
still gonna support it anyway ;D
team based
Wow
Great news.
isn't it ?
Why are these good lucks !!!
Good luck from me too :D
Personally, I still have no idea what the purpose of this thread is.
I get that you're restructuring the team, and don't see how that is a relevant discussion to bring forth to the public.
The team is forever evolving, and have never had to have any change publicly announced before.
Your first and last points in the Q&A come as a random thing to me, and quite a strange thing to address.
Which pushes this post and others into the light.
Quote from: Orstio on January 19, 2010, 01:25:10 PM
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conspiracy_of_silence_(expression) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conspiracy_of_silence_(expression))
QuoteAvoidance of recognition of some problem - for example Gulf War syndrome or the like - in order to officially bury (hide) a possible problem and thus avoid accusations, investigations or liability.
Have a nice day. :)
In house issues are, In house, and should remain there to cease further burning/fanning of flames, but if you feel you need to take a stand or confront a situation publicly, then cryptic messages focused toward individuals or groups needs to be left out, and a proper explanation of what you're trying to convey to those 'outside your circle(s)' should be introduced.
Yaay smf is moving forward, it always has hasn't it?
Yaay new ideas are coming, it always has hasn't it?
Oh noo, here goes Sabre again...
Call me a nOOb or whatever, take a guess at how much it'd offend me :), but if you're going to throw your dirty laundry in amongst the clean, then prepare to have it given back
Quote from: CoreISP on January 19, 2010, 01:12:18 PM
We have positioned ourselves to ensure the continuation of the Simple Machines project against personal advancement and individual gain, ensuring we are protecting the very foundation of what we are, a team driven project.
I wont say good luck, as it isn't needed, the product and support is what we're here for, and for as long as I've known, it has always been 1st class!
Cheers :)
*looks at the ole skool members, and sees the tension
/me will sit on the side lines waiting for a new announcement ;)
not sure what is up, but hey Sabre, long time no see.. yes this is a pondering thread.. not sure why the announcement myself, but hey its always good to see things like this, isnt it?
Well helloo there Smoky :wave:
It sure has been awhile.
To not take this thread too far off topic, I'll forgo all the catchup chat, and say that it's good to see you're still alive n kickin :)
Best of luck to all involved and I'm sure it will go pretty well.
Good luck all! Just remember, cutting off the feet that have walked you miles, may not make the most sense. But hell, that's just my stupid opinion.
Quote from: CoreISP on January 19, 2010, 01:12:18 PM
...ensuring we are protecting the very foundation of what we are, a team driven project.
I thought SMF was a
community Project...
Team was interchangable with community in this respect.
The context was team changes, it felt appropriate for that to be reflected that the team drive the project.
Quote from: hadesflames on January 19, 2010, 08:21:34 PM
Quote from: CoreISP on January 19, 2010, 01:12:18 PM
...ensuring we are protecting the very foundation of what we are, a team driven project.
I thought SMF was a community Project...
I wouldn't delve too far in, we are a community project :)
You'll probably notice some of my writing style in that post :P so put it down to my little muckup :P
what the heck is this about?? I certainly hope 2.0 is coming out. Community, team, whatever... SMF folks have the right to call themselves what they want as far as I am concerned.
-d
Thanks for the clarification Trekkie.
Quote from: dugbug on January 19, 2010, 08:28:58 PM
what the heck is this about?? I certainly hope 2.0 is coming out. Community, team, whatever... SMF folks have the right to call themselves what they want as far as I am concerned.
-d
Sure they can call themselves what ever they want. They could also go from free to paid. But not one would like that now would they ;)
Quote from: dugbug on January 19, 2010, 08:28:58 PM
what the heck is this about?? I certainly hope 2.0 is coming out. Community, team, whatever... SMF folks have the right to call themselves what they want as far as I am concerned.
-d
SMF 2.0 will certainly come :)
Quote from: hadesflames on January 19, 2010, 08:31:28 PM
Sure they can call themselves what ever they want. They could also go from free to paid. But not one would like that now would they ;)
But that wont happen :P SMF has always been free to use and will always remain so. :)
I think everyone, be it team members, community, whoever, need to all just join in a big group hug, then move forward to continue providing an awesome software for an awesome community.
I agree with Sabre.
As a non-regular here I only feel fear when reading the announcement.
The extreme vagueness adds to the fear because we fear the unknown.
It's hard to even understand what you're talking about fully.
A lot of it is also that most of us are accustomed to seeing announcements like this just before a big fall (Enron, Lehman Brothers, etc). When they have an announcement saying "Everything's OK!!" it often means the opposite.
The Q&A is really weird... what is this, an April 1st joke preparation? I'd say, a bit early ;)
Well said Sabre. The annoucement is fine as such, but when you read the Q&A a little WTF pops out and waves at ya.
Quote from: CoreISP on January 19, 2010, 08:52:05 PM
SMF 2.0 will certainly come :)
Which basically means 3.0 will not ;)
Quote from: sessus on January 20, 2010, 12:26:20 AM
Which basically means 3.0 will not ;)
And why would that be? :)
First things first :P
We can't get to 3.0 without stopping at 2.0, so don't be so negative.
Will that mean more recruitments? Will it change, and how does it work?
Well, SMF is always looking for promising community members to invite to the team, so quality work in support, modifications, or themes will get noticed. Likewise for helping with bug reports.
I'm in the middle of packing for work tomorrow. I'll post in a little bit a bit more straightforward post about why this topic was created and some of what was involved, from my perspective.
LOL
Sorry. Why pick those questions? I mean, I've had 4 emails pointing me to this topic asking what the deal is....now they think SMF is struggling to live :(.
It's like me posting on my site with hypothetical questions like "have we been hacked? Is your information being sold on eBay?".....It's kinda PROMOTING the thoughts you're trying to extinguish...
Re-structuring is quite normal and I know at the end of the day, SMF will be better than ever. There will be a lot of sweat and tears, but as long as the team is united to achieve the common goal, the future is bright.
* waves to Smoky *
Quote from: william777 on January 20, 2010, 03:42:56 AM
Re-structuring is quite normal and I know at the end of the day, SMF will be better than ever. There will be a lot of sweat and tears, but as long as the team is united to achieve the common goal, the future is bright.
* waves to Smoky *
restructuring is good ya'll.. and its not just the team, its the community as well.. things are defiantly changing ;)
Quote from: hadesflames on January 19, 2010, 08:21:34 PM
Quote from: CoreISP on January 19, 2010, 01:12:18 PM
...ensuring we are protecting the very foundation of what we are, a team driven project.
I thought SMF was a community Project...
,hmm, it is a community project.. without a community, where would ones site become? good to know trekkie cleared that bit up.. ;)
Quote from: poolhall on January 20, 2010, 12:04:26 AM
The Q&A is really weird... what is this, an April 1st joke preparation? I'd say, a bit early ;)
hmm q&a?? ok im needing more coffee and guess i better re read this thing.. i didnt see any questions and answers.. O:)
/me says mornin william :)
mmmm those questions.. sorry im not awake..
but i am curious..
QuoteQuestion: Has someone stolen control of Simple Machines?
Answer: Simple Machines LLC is owned and operated by the same team that has operated the project for the last 3 years. The leadership team that was elected during this course is still in control, and has merely asserted a few measures to ensure successful continuation of the project.
why say that is has been stolen? and i thought that the team is picked and either it rotates or people walk away from the team.. idk ima stop for the moment, and find my coffee. :)
Few more points on the restructuring, hopefully this removes some of the vagueness.
We like any good organization look at different things, three major things for us are:
- Corporate Structure: Which one? LLC, or NPO, or other? (Currently we pay a lot in tax that we wish we didn't have to).
- Team Structure: The team, friends, charters all vary in size year to year, a "chain of command" or "hierarchy" needs formed that works. With shifts in size this can be difficult to pick right.
- Redistribution: Currently as most know, we don't allow redistribution of SMF without prior consent, which we do grant in a lot of cases where its to benefit the end user, and not soley a profit line.
One of our Senior Support Specialists, Kindred is a project manager in real life, and will be taking on the role of Operations Manager over here, he will be looking into these problems, identifying avenues of support, asking for direct experienced help from within the team, the friends of the site and legal opinions.
The QA section probably isn't the best, it was originally different but since I figured QA should be about questions we were asked rather than ones we werent :).
Double post, removed those sections, they don't fit :P
Sorry Trekkie101, but editing the announcement multiple times after releasing it doesn't really look good either...
LOL, it gets smaller every time :D
Quote from: CoreISP on January 19, 2010, 01:12:18 PM
(...) allow our core developers to concentrate on the future of Simple Machines and producing quality products beyond a bulletin board system.
(...)
Now that's something new that I'm looking forward to. ;D
Farce.
Good luck SMF Team!
I know that all the changes that you are going to do will be for the benefit of all the community and obviouslly of the project
Ok its like SMF folks don't understand the confusion. Most (well, ALL) businesses restructure AFTER the big product they are working on is out the door. Doing this on the eve of 2.0 RC3 or 2.0 gold or whatever casts a long shadow.
How about post some news on the 2.0 effort?
I'm a bit confused so I'm just gonna post a thought bubble
(http://nickpoint.files.wordpress.com/2008/06/citizensmith.jpg)
Power to the people!
Quote from: Kat on January 20, 2010, 11:22:37 AM
Power to the people!
I know you are kidding, but thats true :D
This is really scaring me!
I totally abandoned MyBB and started messing with RC2 test forums so I'd be ready to upgrade my active forums from 1.11 to 2.0 stable but now I'm reading a few posts suggesting doomsday for SMF or at least some serious problems.
I realize that most SMF staff that have posted in this thread have assured us that all is fine but the few naysayers still worry me a bit.
Good luck in the restructuring, may it be as smooth as possible.
Quote from: Owdy on January 20, 2010, 11:23:57 AMI know you are kidding, but thats true :D
That's the caption that goes with the pic that Amanda posted.
It's from an old-ish UK TV programme, called "Citizen Smith"..
Quote from: Kat on January 20, 2010, 11:32:07 AM
That's the caption that goes with the pic that Amanda posted.
Yep, i understood that
I thought people from outside of civilisation might not, though. ;)
LOL, true
/me didn't initially get it, assumed it was just appropriate. And I am from "civilisation" ;)
dont see what people are so worried about, SMF have made an announcement that there will be restructuring, and some how thats been turned into the day the world ends...... erm WTF, the idea from that, that people have gotten that SMF is about to shut down and close up shop..... bemuses and amuses me
as far as i can see SMF have announced there will be changes and some people are throwing in a few sniping comments (sour grapes perhaps) but other than that its just SMF stating there will be changes made to try push smf forwards and onwards -
new software + new theme + new year + new changes = progression in my eyes
and untill there is announcement stating SMF is shutting down then i dont see how folks are claiming the end is nigh
Thanks for letting us know. I hope everything goes smoothly.
Best of luck :)
- trebul
P.S. It's very interesting to see how different people react to the same message.
Quote from: stikkki on January 20, 2010, 11:51:50 AM
dont see what people are so worried about, SMF have made an announcement that there will be restructuring, and some how thats been turned into the day the world ends...... erm WTF, the idea from that, that people have gotten that SMF is about to shut down and close up shop..... bemuses and amuses me
as far as i can see SMF have announced there will be changes and some people are throwing in a few sniping comments (sour grapes perhaps) but other than that its just SMF stating there will be changes made to try push smf forwards and onwards -
new software + new theme + new year + new changes = progression in my eyes
and untill there is announcement stating SMF is shutting down then i dont see how folks are claiming the end is nigh
People''s perceptivities are relative. (We all read different things through the lines of the announcement.)
Personally I really hope that things will take a turn for the better as I still care a lot about Smf.
Quote from: trebul on January 20, 2010, 11:55:55 AM
P.S. It's very interesting to see how different people react to the same message.
Some read it like it is meant, some read between the lines, some try to read between the lines but fail,
some hope this is something, and others know this is something. Everyone has their own point of view,
and their own way of thinking. On top of that, the announcement was pretty vague, and strangely put together -
so you can pretty much expect confusion...
We all love the software. I'v been using it since first beta.
In this instance, anything negative is most likely to be wrong. I want to know how people found SMF going down.
..Apologetics for SMF... lol
I've been using it since 1.1 RC2, and not once looked back at other software. I'd also hate to have to try integrating a SimpleDesk-like package into anything else...
Interesting topic.
I find it concerning to see so many people concerned.
Quote from: ryanhellyer on January 20, 2010, 12:42:15 PM
Interesting topic.
I find it concerning to see so many people concerned.
^ what he said.
Reading this does make people like myself wonder what the heck is happening. I really like using SMF but when you read all of this and hear some rumors it does make you wonder. IMHO
I guess the question is
1) why is their a need for restructuring
2) if their is a need, why does it need to be made public
3) what does jerm know that we don't that made him run away
jerm hasnt run away. What makes you think that?
Quote from: Jakki on January 20, 2010, 01:48:42 PM
Reading this does make people like myself wonder what the heck is happening. I really like using SMF but when you read all of this and hear some rumors it does make you wonder. IMHO
Don't believe everything you have heard/read unless it's from the official SMF Team or Founder.
As long as the software works, does it, really, matter?
Quote from: Dismal Shadow on January 20, 2010, 01:58:10 PM
Quote from: Jakki on January 20, 2010, 01:48:42 PM
Reading this does make people like myself wonder what the heck is happening. I really like using SMF but when you read all of this and hear some rumors it does make you wonder. IMHO
Don't believe everything you have heard/read unless it's from the official SMF Team or Founder.
"Believe none of what you hear and half of what you see." - Benjamin Franklin
Quote from: Kat on January 20, 2010, 02:02:10 PM
As long as the software works, does it, really, matter?
Yes. If the team dies who's going to keep the software secure and safe?
Er... Bonus point to Lizzy. :)
Quote from: Jade Elizabeth on January 20, 2010, 02:04:20 PM
Quote from: Kat on January 20, 2010, 02:02:10 PM
As long as the software works, does it, really, matter?
Yes. If the team dies who's going to keep the software secure and safe?
Why shall the team die ? Why wasn't it even a matter of discussion so far, but now it is ?
Good luck SMF =)
This announcement needs either clarification or a lock
Quote from: live627 on January 20, 2010, 02:35:51 PM
This announcement needs either clarification or a lock
Indeed, before I post a pic of Private Fraser from Dad's Army...
Just keep a eye on this page:
http://www.simplemachines.org/about/team.php
Drink some water chillax and enjoy :)
Frank
Quote from: tumbleweed on January 20, 2010, 02:54:53 PM
Just keep a eye on this page:
http://www.simplemachines.org/about/team.php
That page is outdated. Maybe someone should make bug report about it...
All the best SMF.... I am a SMF fan and do not look to any other software....
smf is even better than most paid softwares out in market, and best is its free....
SMF 2.0 has beaten other popular forum scripts, as it has most of the premium features...
Good luck for the Restructuring
Sorry for the post about nothing.
I am sorry guys but I would be surprised, if anything good come of this. If you weren't around for the Mambo restructuring , then the Joomla restructuring (which I might add the SMF community themselves had trouble with, remember the nice Joomla-SMF bridge we used to have) then you will know that community driven projects take a major hit after "restructuring"
The reason is that people outside of the "management" put in countless hours of mostly free work to make something better and then their opinions aren't listened to when the restructuring begins.
People of good common sense see how the people who worked tirelessly were treated and the community splits, usually,with many good coders leaving to go in another direction.
God I love SMF. I have used it for years. But I am worried. I would have felt better if a more descriptive public statement was given.
The sad part of all this is that I was planning on actually becoming a charter member when I started reading all this mumbo jumbo
Thank you for all your support guys, its appreciated :)
Of course as with any change, some people won't be happy. Now to tease a little, I've seen a little of the coming plans for SMF, and wow. ;)
Stop smoking that grass Trekkie
Quote from: Owdy on January 20, 2010, 04:31:17 PM
Stop smoking that grass Trekkie
ooh, soo baad lol :D
Quote from: Owdy on January 20, 2010, 02:57:48 PM
Quote from: tumbleweed on January 20, 2010, 02:54:53 PM
Just keep a eye on this page:
http://www.simplemachines.org/about/team.php (http://www.simplemachines.org/about/team.php)
That page is outdated. Maybe someone should make bug report about it...
http://www.simplemachines.org/about/values.php (http://www.simplemachines.org/community/../about/team.php)
This page is also outdated
Ok folks (and kiddies :P)
I am the new Operations Manager (i.e. Project Manager with a snazzy title) for the SimpleMachines Forum Project.
What does that mean, you ask?
I am in charge of whipping the current teams into shape. Of spearheading the tasks which need to be done in order to move the project forward.
Why was this post made? some of you have asked...
Well, there was recently a bit of a to-do over some internal restructuring and reorganization. It made some people unhappy, it made some people distraught... and the fallout from that unhappiness has made its way into the public, even outside of the simplemachines.org or the smf-friends.org forums. So, in order to set straight any rumors or put paid to any suggestions that SMF is going to die, go away or otherwise fold... this post was made. The Q&A specifically addressed some of the rumors that we saw. If you were confused, it was probably because you didn't see the original rumor.
might I also remind people that Mambo and Joomla are still around... :)
And the problems with the joomla-smf bridge had absolutely nothing to do with Joomla's reorganization, but was based around problems with the GPL.
Let me assure you that I am working on driving the project forward. I am working on various internal tasks including meeting with the various teams and developers to build an actual roadmap for the SimpleMachines Forum project. I am working with knowledgeable people on the team, in the friends group and outside sources to move our corporate structure to something more friendly than an LLC and also to adjust our license to become OSI compliant.
One outcome of this will be a better organization which hopefully, once everything is straightened out and ship-shape, will lead to other projects under the SimpleMachines umbrella.
if you'd like to help, then just keep on doing what you have been doing. Support the SMF community. Help those users of SMF who have questions. Build mods and themes. If you'd really like to help further, then show yourself knowledgeable and helpful... We're always looking for new team members in support and development as well as documentation and marketing folks.
So... to use a few mis-appropriated (mis)quotes:
pay no attention to that man behind the curtain.
Rumors of our death are greatly exaggerated.
... and the band continues to play on....
Thanks Kindred - and congratulations on your promotion.
"keep on doing what you have been doing" is what I will do, developing a nice big juicy steak, er, mod. :D
Is this good news?
Thank you Kindred finally logical explanation on the subject
It certainly makes more sense
Quote from: Kindred on January 20, 2010, 05:27:20 PM
Ok folks (and kiddies :P)
I am the new Operations Manager (i.e. Project Manager with a snazzy title) for the SimpleMachines Forum Project.
What does that mean, you ask?
I am in charge of whipping the current teams into shape. Of spearheading the tasks which need to be done in order to move the project forward.
Why was this post made? some of you have asked...
Well, there was recently a bit of a to-do over some internal restructuring and reorganization. It made some people unhappy, it made some people distraught... and the fallout from that unhappiness has made its way into the public, even outside of the simplemachines.org or the smf-friends.org forums. So, in order to set straight any rumors or put paid to any suggestions that SMF is going to die, go away or otherwise fold... this post was made. The Q&A specifically addressed some of the rumors that we saw. If you were confused, it was probably because you didn't see the original rumor.
might I also remind people that Mambo and Joomla are still around... :)
And the problems with the joomla-smf bridge had absolutely nothing to do with Joomla's reorganization, but was based around problems with the GPL.
Let me assure you that I am working on driving the project forward. I am working on various internal tasks including meeting with the various teams and developers to build an actual roadmap for the SimpleMachines Forum project. I am working with knowledgeable people on the team, in the friends group and outside sources to move our corporate structure to something more friendly than an LLC and also to adjust our license to become OSI compliant.
One outcome of this will be a better organization which hopefully, once everything is straightened out and ship-shape, will lead to other projects under the SimpleMachines umbrella.
if you'd like to help, then just keep on doing what you have been doing. Support the SMF community. Help those users of SMF who have questions. Build mods and themes. If you'd really like to help further, then show yourself knowledgeable and helpful... We're always looking for new team members in support and development as well as documentation and marketing folks.
So... to use a few mis-appropriated (mis)quotes:
pay no attention to that man behind the curtain.
Rumors of our death are greatly exaggerated.
... and the band continues to play on....
Finally a clear post, Thanks Kindred
the team itself making these changes intentionally or this change is a decision forced by outside the team? I'm not clearly understand that.
I guess it just one of those "you had to be there" to understand the full circle of what is going on. NM it'll either go or it won't.
All of the changes were done internally. No outside entity has control over smf or team actions.
Quote from: Kindred on January 20, 2010, 06:41:06 PM
All of the changes were done internally. No outside entity has control over smf or team actions.
To be More clear, maybe Daydreamer wants to learn this, inside or outside, who is the boss? Which power can eliminate so many team members?
There have been several of us grizzled veteran (and ardent supporters) of SMF that have remained quiet about this, publicly. At least, for me, I will continue my policy on that.
What I can say is that (Speaking only for myself) I will support Kindred's efforts in this reorganization. He's good people, and I trust him that he has the commnity's best interest at heart.
For those that do not know me, I'm a former Support Specialist and former Marketing Team Leader. I'm also one of THE biggest supporters of the SMF software. I've been around longer than most (I helped Alpha test SMF on live sites), and I'm Co-tech admin for three million + post SMF based/driven sites.
Quote from: Daydreamer on January 20, 2010, 06:12:30 PM
the team itself making these changes intentionally or this change is a decision forced by outside the team? I'm not clearly understand that.
Change was forced on the team :(.
Well if theres gonna be Restructuring i say Try and get Unknown Back here on the SMF Dev Team.
-Unknown
The Never Forgotten 1
(Psst, Unknown is technically number 2... ;) Number 1 is SMF Customization Team ;))
But yeah, it would be awesome to see Mr Brackets back around here.
According to the Book, Unknown still logs in everyday but hasn't posted for a long time
Quote from: live627 on January 20, 2010, 10:07:16 PM
According to the Book, Unknown still logs in everyday but hasn't posted for a long time
What book? You mean the Book of Unknown?
http://custom.simplemachines.org/mods/index.php?mod=2290
Quote from: Dismal Shadow on January 20, 2010, 10:33:29 PM
Quote from: live627 on January 20, 2010, 10:07:16 PM
According to the Book, Unknown still logs in everyday but hasn't posted for a long time
What book? You mean the Book of Unknown?
http://custom.simplemachines.org/mods/index.php?mod=2290
The book of unknown is in by default, along with others on this site :)
Trekkie - that particular mod adds an interesting twist on the Book, however ;)
I don't see the option anywhere...? (I might have overlooked ::) )
Anyway...I don't know who Unknown is. Sounds like he's a legendary around here...
Unknown, aka Unknown W. Brackets is user id 2, the #1 poster here, and former lead dev of SMF...
Quote from: Arantor on January 20, 2010, 10:56:59 PM
Unknown, aka Unknown W. Brackets is user id 2, the #1 poster here, and former lead dev of SMF...
Yep I was right, ha. What make him quit the team? Does it have something to do relating to this restructuring?
He left a while ago - back in 2005, I believe. I don't know why he left though, long before my time.
Quote from: Arantor on January 20, 2010, 11:06:30 PM
He left a while ago - back in 2005, I believe. I don't know why he left though, long before my time.
Damn, last post was September 23, 2005, last active...
today. What in the world....?!?!
Haven't posted in nearly 5 years and still logs in today.
Actually last post was October 20, 2009 and Arantor isn't far away from catching up to [Unkown] in posts
Quote from: smp420 on January 20, 2010, 11:16:43 PM
Actually last post was October 20, 2009 and Arantor isn't far away from catching up to [Unkown] in posts
POSTWHORE!!! :P
Especially when you consider my first post was April 9th, 2009 - yes, that means I've been posting for just under 10 months.
Quote from: smp420 on January 20, 2010, 11:16:43 PM
Actually last post was October 20, 2009 and Arantor isn't far away from catching up to [Unkown] in posts
Yeah, but Arantor wasn't writing SMF 1.0 while making all of his posts. ;)
I remember when I converted my IPB forum to SMF and joined this community, [Unknown] was one of the first people to reply to my support requests. Another one I remember is Oldiesman.
Considering how long I've been a member of this community (Date Registered:December 06, 2004) and my post count, I guess I'm the opposite of a "POSTWHORE". I'm still trying to get past Junior Member status.(http://catfished.com/emoticons/roflmao.gif)
True enough, though in that 9 months I did also release 45 (small) mods.
And my posting has slowed down while I write SimpleDesk.
I think it's great Kindred got promoted to Project Manager. My mind is actually a bit at ease now that I know someone who is, IMO, trustworthy, is now PM.
Congratulations Kindred! ^_^
Its nice to know that whatever happens, in the end SMF will strive to continue to be the best and then to be even better.
hem, i hope for the best. ;D
stick to this thread... ;)
Quote from: hadesflames on January 20, 2010, 11:37:15 PM
I think it's great Kindred got promoted to Project Manager. My mind is actually a bit at ease now that I know someone who is, IMO, trustworthy, is now PM.
Congratulations Kindred! ^_^
Indeed, lets hope he's not alone in wanting to get changes done. A team after all, are only the sum of its parts - not just one person.
Quote from: Kindred on January 20, 2010, 05:27:20 PM
One outcome of this [...] will lead to other projects under the SimpleMachines umbrella.
Congratulations.
Will this mean there is a chance to build a better base for the contact between Simple Machines LLC and local support forums for SMF?
Quote from: Orstio on January 19, 2010, 01:25:10 PM
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conspiracy_of_silence_(expression) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conspiracy_of_silence_(expression))
QuoteAvoidance of recognition of some problem - for example Gulf War syndrome or the like - in order to officially bury (hide) a possible problem and thus avoid accusations, investigations or liability.
Have a nice day. :)
Is Echelon working on SMF?
I am not sure what you mean Jorin... There is only one official SMF support site, and that is simplemachines.org. There may be other sites which run SMF and know about programming in PHP and/or support SMF mods and themes. However, all official SMF support comes from this site.
CultureGlue, Echelon?
I quoted the first reply in this topic.. And the topicstarter tried to explain why smf is not open source. If you look at the first reply you can see he is suspicious about that fact.
Echelon is a project to monitor us all! Cellphones, creditcardinfo, surfing, surveillance camera, what we buy
Big Brothers real name
And it is real!
Quote from: Kindred on January 21, 2010, 08:28:01 AM
There may be other sites which run SMF and know about programming in PHP and/or support SMF mods and themes. However, all official SMF support comes from this site.
Yeah, I know that. I only wish there could be more than just a friendly ignorating of these sites. Maybe a list in the admin control center with links to the best known sites for portals, themes and such. Or a list here at your site. Or any possible kind of working together, sharing (personal) ressources and ideas for coming releases.
That's what I meant. Not really necessary, but would be nice to have and could give a feeling of community without borders. ;)
Generally the best known sites for portals, themes and such would be here at SMF itself. There are support threads for every 3rd party modification that has been officially submitted to, tested by, and deemed stable by SMF. There should be no need to go anyplace else for support and no way for SMF to monitor it.
That said if a developer is providing support for something they have created on another site for sometimes valid reasons they will provide a link within their profile, the support page, and or in the distribution package itself.
Sure, you're right. Maybe really the best way, as all modifications are here in the download sector and also have their own support thread.
Quote from: Dismal Shadow on January 20, 2010, 10:54:54 PM
Anyway...I don't know who Unknown is. Sounds like he's a legendary around here...
He is the God of Smf.
Quote from: babjusi on January 21, 2010, 10:29:29 AM
Quote from: Dismal Shadow on January 20, 2010, 10:54:54 PM
Anyway...I don't know who Unknown is. Sounds like he's a legendary around here...
He is the God of Smf.
Because...? He post alot, he's from the dev team, he help people?
Quote from: Dismal Shadow on January 21, 2010, 11:34:58 AM
Quote from: babjusi on January 21, 2010, 10:29:29 AM
Quote from: Dismal Shadow on January 20, 2010, 10:54:54 PM
Anyway...I don't know who Unknown is. Sounds like he's a legendary around here...
He is the God of Smf.
Because...? He post alot, he's from the dev team, he help people?
No. He is the chosen one. (just kidding). :)
Look at : http://www.simplemachines.org/community/index.php?topic=208875.20
Quote from: Jade Elizabeth on January 20, 2010, 07:38:59 PM
Quote from: Daydreamer on January 20, 2010, 06:12:30 PM
the team itself making these changes intentionally or this change is a decision forced by outside the team? I'm not clearly understand that.
Change was forced on the team :( .
Joke?
Quote from: godboko on January 21, 2010, 11:38:13 AM
Quote from: Jade Elizabeth on January 20, 2010, 07:38:59 PM
Quote from: Daydreamer on January 20, 2010, 06:12:30 PM
the team itself making these changes intentionally or this change is a decision forced by outside the team? I'm not clearly understand that.
Change was forced on the team :( .
Joke?
No.
Quote from: Dismal Shadow on January 21, 2010, 11:34:58 AM
Because...? He post alot, he's from the dev team, he help people?
He started this whole project. This is his "Baby"
Quote from: Owdy on January 21, 2010, 11:46:29 AM
Quote from: Dismal Shadow on January 21, 2010, 11:34:58 AM
Because...? He post alot, he's from the dev team, he help people?
He started this whole project. This is his "Baby"
The founder, i see...why didn't they said so in the first place instead of saying he's on developer team.
He was main developer first years. Big part of SMF code is his.
Quote from: godboko on January 21, 2010, 12:10:06 PM
Then who is doing the forcing?
Darth Vader. Don't underestimate the power of the darkside.
(http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/9945/17865248132272934714827.jpg)
reads all 8 pages of thread, downloads another copy of phpbb3*
(now that I have two copies, I can stuff my bra! Now, I'm off to the prom! :kiss )
QuoteThen who is doing the forcing?
not who, (or whom) but
what. Circumstances demand that officials speak out when muttering rumor overwhelms decision making and action. Of course, indecisive and vague speech only makes matters worse. :P
this:
(http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/9945/17865248132272934714827.jpg)
is a dead give away of who....
I don't understand why doesn't someone who knows everything tell us the whole story, especially after this point? :D
Anyway best wishes for SMF, WE love SMF
After several years using other forum softwares I decided to migrate my people to SMF.
I didn't take this decision lightly, and have spent a while making sure everything is just the way we want it.
So far I really like the whole package, not just the software but the people here too (I'll resist the temptation of comparing this place with another, pretty anal, setup that I know of).
Joking aside, I really hope SMF continues to thrive and that the people on the team and helpers here etc sort it all out in a mutually acceptable way.
*Puts serious head back in the attic and goes back to curry making*
Quote from: Minare on January 21, 2010, 12:50:54 PM
I don't understand why doesn't someone who knows everything tell us the whole story, especially after this point? :D
Anyway best wishes for SMF, WE love SMF
Well, some people say that it all started off in a hot, dense state, which rapidly expanded. Over billions of years gravity caused matter to form stars, which eventually exploded releasing enough energy to create heavier atoms, which also came together in different forms.
Let me know if you really want to read the rest. ;)
Quote from: Amanda. on January 21, 2010, 01:04:18 PM
I really hope SMF continues to thrive and that the people on the team and helpers here etc sort it all out in a mutually acceptable way.
This is what I believe everyone here would like to see come out of this :) So you are not alone.
Quote from: LexArma on January 21, 2010, 01:06:01 PM
Quote from: Amanda. on January 21, 2010, 01:04:18 PM
I really hope SMF continues to thrive and that the people on the team and helpers here etc sort it all out in a mutually acceptable way.
This is what I believe everyone here would like to see come out of this :) So you are not alone.
+1
Quote from: LexArma on January 21, 2010, 01:06:01 PM
Quote from: Amanda. on January 21, 2010, 01:04:18 PM
I really hope SMF continues to thrive and that the people on the team and helpers here etc sort it all out in a mutually acceptable way.
This is what I believe everyone here would like to see come out of this :) So you are not alone.
SMF has quite a strong community behind it. I'm sure even if the dev team were to tear themselves astray, there will always be the community which will allow this project to continue on. Though, I doubt the dev team would die out. They seem to have their minds set on what they want to do ^^.
Quote from: Dismal Shadow on January 20, 2010, 01:58:10 PM
Quote from: Jakki on January 20, 2010, 01:48:42 PM
Reading this does make people like myself wonder what the heck is happening. I really like using SMF but when you read all of this and hear some rumors it does make you wonder. IMHO
Don't believe everything you have heard/read unless it's from the official SMF Team or Founder.
What about Jeff? He is Co-founder, right??
Quote from: LexArma on January 21, 2010, 01:06:01 PM
Quote from: Amanda. on January 21, 2010, 01:04:18 PM
I really hope SMF continues to thrive and that the people on the team and helpers here etc sort it all out in a mutually acceptable way.
This is what I believe everyone here would like to see come out of this :) So you are not alone.
Indeed.
ffs why doesnt the powers that be lock this thread and start a new 1 to make a full and frank announcement explaining the situation instead of everyone playing silly buggers with half arsed explanations and the snidey comments that have been posted -
the situation with this thread and the way it was started just instills confusion amongst members and goes to fuel the rumours that the powers that be are killing SMF
its been mentioned that SMF staff and structure is being restructered and theres big things in stall with SMF........ give us facts and details instead of rumour and cryptic clues....... or are we as members not deemed fit to be given full details as we are just members and not part of smf infastructure
members and not just staff give help here, we give our time, support other members create free mods and themes and some help SMF financially so how about keeping us in the loop as SMF is as much, if not more about the members than it is the staff as without members there would be nothing for the staff an owners to do
@stikkki, you could not have said it any better.
I would like to see a full and frank, honest announcement explaining this all as well.
Probably stepping out of my bounds, but what the heck. Why are there so many "inside jokes" here by the regulars? What's with the hinting toward some super secret transformation that lies somewhere behind the scenes and only viewable by the "in" crowd? Why not stop all the BS and either end (lock) the thread, or just fess up? I know I'm not the only one here that feels there's something fishy here. And no, I am certainly not a nay sayer. SMF is absolutely fantastic and will continue to be such. The community as a whole isn't so naive as is portrayed. These types of replies just hurt the whole process further, which I am beginning to suspect is the sole reason for some of the comments. Let's not forget the IMs and emails going around. Let's get beyond the nonsense and get back to making superior software.
[shakes his head and walks away...]
EDIT: ^^^ stikkki beat me to it......
Quote from: stikkki on January 21, 2010, 01:54:58 PM
ffs why doesnt the powers that be lock this thread and start a new 1 to make a full and frank announcement explaining the situation instead of everyone playing silly buggers with half arsed explanations and the snidey comments that have been posted -
the situation with this thread and the way it was started just instills confusion amongst members and goes to fuel the rumours that the powers that be are killing SMF
its been mentioned that SMF staff and structure is being restructered and theres big things in stall with SMF........ give us facts and details instead of rumour and cryptic clues....... or are we as members not deemed fit to be given full details as we are just members and not part of smf infastructure
members and not just staff give help here, we give our time, support other members create free mods and themes and some help SMF financially so how about keeping us in the loop as SMF is as much, if not more about the members than it is the staff as without members there would be nothing for the staff an owners to do
Very well said stikki. I feel exactly the same.
The Truth Is Out There
(http://www.sondrak.com/archive/skpics2/i_want_to_belive.jpg)
see its dumbass underhand comments like that Owdy that aren't really helping anyone.....
if you cant be constructive then why insist on making urselves look like idiots
Exactly.
Some of us are destined to always be on the outside looking in while others on the inside pass comment with cryptic meaning only making sense to the insiders. 8 pages ive read of rumours and comments but not yet has SMF simply put a proper lid on it all and made a sensible post or locked this chinese whisper.
The 2 random FAQ questions are they some kind of clue to whats gone on since they directly relate to smf being paid for and licencing.The post is so vague it is almost pointless to be posted and is only fueling a lot of speculation.
Has the team had some kind of power struggle behind the scenes with this thread making it out to us members ?
Are we going to see other smf sites spring up out of nowhere with team from here now going solo ?
Somebody wants to see $$$ for smf development?
Is this thread really a croc of crap and nothing bad has happened?
Is the team going to address this post or lock it as suggested and give a real explanation?
Are we supposed to just ignore this thread started by a team member?
In all the time ive used smf ive never seen a post along this line with such a wierd OP followed by another half hearted explanation only after everyones guesses and ideas to whats going on.Ive had a lot of thoughts over smf since seeing this thread and hope this is all a storm in a teacup but somone from the team needs to step up to the plate and take real responsibility and post a clear enough post so were not all second guessing from random cryptic comments..
Quote from: stikkki on January 21, 2010, 02:26:35 PM
see its dumbass underhand comments like that Owdy that aren't really helping anyone.....
if you cant be constructive then why insist on making urselves look like idiots
This was so un-called for. Have you ever heard of freedom of speech? Posts like yours, make you look like an idiot and ass kisser. And Smf right now doesn''t need those (ass-kissers)
P.s. I found Owdy''s post funny btw. As they say, a picture is worth 1000 words ;)
@ nightbre
That's exactly right.
@babjusi
I think stikkki just demonstrated his freedom of speech. The wording of it may have left a bit to be desired, but the point is still the same. There is no clause that says freedom of speech "only when I agree with it".
actually it wasnt un-called for - people want proper discussion and direction to the thread to get clear understanding and not people having little snipes and making comments about people and posting stuff about the "truth is out there" based on personal greivances...... how is it helping the situation posting more cryptic comments and images that are clearly ment to have meaning and are directed at certain quarters without stepping up and saying what you mean and being direct about the situation at hand
im sorry but people need to grow up and stop acting like kids - if there are legitamate greivances and people have something to say then say it, ive seen the snidey comments around, ive seen the backstabbing, had the spam emails...... enough is enough lets just get things out in the open and deal with this situation, this is as much the SMF bigwigs fault as anyone elses, bring in the top brass and let them give us the heads up on whats happening, what plans are and where all this is leading to
ok folks. Since this has gotten seriously off topic and is quickly degenerating, I am going to lock the thread. I made a post, which got buried, about 3 pages back with as clear an explanation as you are currently going to get.
The original post (which has since been modified) was created to address some rumors.
We have done so. There are still things happening in the background, but nothing that need concern any SMF supporters at this time.
If there is any cause for concern, I will make sure you hear about it.
So... on about your business you... move along, move along...