On Mar 2, 2009, at 6:31 PM, sam averitt wrote:
A simple suggestion on the name - that VCL be "transferred" to
Apache.org
and become the official project name. Current users of VCL already
wrap
their own identity around VCL. NC State would/could still use the
qualified
name NCSU VCL or NC State's VCL and others would/could do likewise.
For
example the Virginia group already calls their initiative Virginia
VCL.
Unfortunately that's all the more reason for the ASF project to change
its name.
I believe there are no specific acknowledgement requirements for use
of
apache.org software? Meaning that anyone could add a personalized
qualifier
or not and a root linkage statement (like powered by Apache.org's
VCL) or
not.
Project attribution should not be confused with with the department.
To be sure NCSU could use Apache VCL, install it, use it, and provide
attribution. However, having the progenitor keep its name, VCL,
causes a conflict that needs to be resolved. This issue can easily be
solved by having this project choose a new name.
Seems to me that providing a combined personal identifier and default
root linkage mechanism would help, not hurt the Apache brand.
Attribution is always appreciated but it's a not very convincing
argument for the ASF keeping a name that is at odds with its
progenitor's and now other universities' project names, VCL.
What I can say
is that this assessment is consistent with and supported by our
experience
to date.
NCSU VCL and its developers have a lot to be proud of. It's only
natural that both, NCSU VCL and its developers at ASF VCL, would want
to keep their association with the brand. That brand is only
strengthened as departments from other universities join in and have
their initiatives participate in the VCL brand. Unfortunately the ASF
must remain independent this branding effort.
Regards,
Alan
