Journal of Internet Disasters

Mon Nov 16 12:08:02 UTC 1998

Kind of like an OEM for the Internet? 8) (office of emergency management)
I actually had an idea like this some time ago and went ahead and
registered oem-i.org, maybe it needs to be re-instated?

On Fri, 13 Nov 1998, Eric M. Carroll wrote:

> I think this is an operationally relevant thread, so let me continue to tilt
> at windmills here. I like your ideas (as usual) and I think there is a
> executable idea here. I firmly believe something in this area is much, much
> better than nothing, which is what we have now.
> 
> So, here's three communal options:
> 
> - constitute a mailing list for failure analysis, everyone pitches in with
> or without assistance. The simple act of analyzing the options and possible
> failure modes is of value (note the reaction from Paul to your mail
> message - thus value is demonstrated!)
> - constitute a closed mailing list, by invitation only. Ask vendors for
> cooperation, and publish the results with the names removed to protect the
> guilty and ensure their cooperation. Publish their names if cooperation is
> refused.
> - created a moderated digest list, IFAIL-D, and take input from anywhere,
> but vet it through a panel of experts for analysis and publication. That's
> basically your newsletter.
> - create a real working group that meets and travels, and visits the vendors
> in person. Perhaps they get badges eventually, or cool NTSB like jackets ;-)
> 
> So, I will jump into the pool if you will. Let's pick a model and try... The
> point is, there is alot of expertise available. I think starting small,
> involving experts, being professional, using volunteers and growing as
> required is a model that has worked many times in Internet Land for some big
> pieces of infrastructure. In other words, we need to prove the value before
> people will pay for it. Have we acquired so much operational grey hair we
> have forgotten our roots? (sorry for the pun).
> 
> Regards,
> 
> Eric Carroll
> 