[wlug_org] Second draft of WellyLUG guidelines

[Tony Wills]

At 17:13 10/05/04 +1200, Damon wrote:
>On Mon, 2004-05-10 at 13:25, Tony Wills wrote:
>
> > Can someone post a full copy of the current version of this proposal?  So
> > that we can all decide whether we're done.
>
>Seems like you've just volunteered yourself Tony :)

:-(

Ok you asked for it (ummm, ok, well I asked for it!) :
(I haven't proof read it, just cobbled together above suggested changes 
plus editors license :)

User Group Aims:
=============

a) To exchange Linux and Open Source Software knowledge and experience.

b) To encourage the use of Linux and Open Source Software

Mailing list Rules:
=============

      1. No advertising on the list. If you must, then please take it
          offlist. This is a strict requirement, and is requested by our
          current mailing list service provider. It is done principally to 
prevent
          unsolicted commercial advertising. Please respect this.

Mailing list Guidelines:
================

The purpose behind these guidelines is to clarify what you
need to do to help WellyLUG create an effective and enjoyable atmosphere
that will foster a sense of community.

They are by their nature optional but are designed to help facilitate
smoother interpersonal relations. These are not rules. They are simply
some common sense practical tips to help keep our LUG humming.
Humming is good :-)

        1. Try to keep all commentary civil, and be courteous.
            Try to refrain from using coarse or insulting language.
           [Constructive criticism in the spirit of genuine dialogue
            is welcome, but insults directed towards other
            members will not be well received.]

        2. Some people are interested in the political aspects of free and
           open source software. Others are more interested from a hobbyist
           perspective. The LUG embraces both.

        3. If you are in serious conflict with someone by e-mail, take a deep
            breath and wait an hour or sleep on it before replying!
            And if it still winds you up, then take it off list.


  Keep in mind the following

         * It's a much better feeling to resolve a conflict in a way that
           improves the relationship you have with your fellow members,
           which benefits everyone including yourself.
         * Look beyond short term frustrations to the longer term future of
           the group.
         * Sometimes people might have a bad day. Forgive them,
           no one is immune to a visit from Mr Grumpy.
         * Clarify individual perceptions involved in the conflict. You
           can't solve a problem if you don't know what it is about. Sort
           the parts of the conflict - ask what it is about. Avoid ghost*
           conflicts - get to the heart of the matter and avoid side
           issues. Clarify what, if any, values are involved. If you pause
           to think about it, you may recognise that the parties involved
           need each other to be most effective in forming a healthy LUG
           community. Additionally, clarify your perceptions of the other
           party. Avoid stereotyping. Try to listen carefully. Recognise the
           other's needs and values. Try to Empathise - ask why they feel 
the way
           they do. Clear up misconceptions you may have of them.


*ghost conflicts?
Conflicts where the heart of the problems are not being dealt with
directly, and instead minor or side matters are given all the
attention.  Can happen when people are upset or irritable with each
other, or when the real conflict is deemed too sensitive.