Hi, Bonnie Corwin wrote: > Simon Phipps wrote: >> We do have to take into account that trademark collisions still have >> to be avoided, even though we're only talking about projects here. >> Since OpenSolaris is hosted by Sun, Sun remains liable for any >> infringement of trademark law anywhere in the world. Since Sun is >> perceived as having deep pockets, that could well lead to unexpected >> lawsuits, which these days can come with substantial invoices >> attached to the cease & desist letter.
Heavily agree with Simon on this, and given that current association, it would be irresponsible to suggest otherwise. As a board, we also don't have directors insurance either. >> I believe Sara will be able to give more detailed guidelines, but in >> general, names should aim to be descriptive. If a "decorative" name >> is wanted, at least check on Google whether it's in use anywhere in a >> way that's connected with IT before suggesting it. > > Sara and I have been in ongoing discussions with Trademark people for > some time, but we have yet to figure out any kind of approval process. > > Your statement is the best advice: stick to descriptive names that use > common words and industry-wide common terms. > > Descriptive names are best from a trademark perspective. But also from > a perspective of inclusiveness. People on various OpenSolaris mail > aliases have commented in the past that descriptive names help people > understand what is happening in the community. 'Decorative' names are > hard to track and can obscure the technology they represent - to the > point of potentially being a barrier to entry. Apart from the trademark issues, I think Bonnie is spot on. Sure project names are geeky and fun to use, but generally are zero help to understanding what the project is about. I'm sure we all have examples that are near and dear to our own hearts ;) Glynn
