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Here's a solution that permits "important"
anonymous postings while excluding irrelevant
ones: post the message through an intermediary.
For example, let's say that you really have a
serious problem with your boss (e.g., sexual
harassment) and need advice from the list, but you
don't want to post your plea with your name or
your employer's name attached. Solution: Contact a
friendly list member (there are many) by e-mail
or, if you prefer to avoid any electronic audit
trail whatsoever, by voice. I'll volunteer in this
capacity (e-mail address below) and I'm in the
phonebook; furthermore, if you can't find me in
the book, send me a message requesting my phone
number. Most people who you've corresponded with
privately (off list) are likely to help, so by all
means stick with a friend if that's more
comfortable.
Said volunteer can then summarize the posting and
submit it to the list with the traditional "I have
a friend (really!) with a problem" preface. Sit
back and wait for help. Sound like a plausible
approach? Can we "edit" my proposal to make it
workable?
--Geoff Hart @8^{)}
geoff-h -at- mtl -dot- feric -dot- ca
Disclaimer: If I didn't commit it in print in one
of our reports, it don't represent FERIC's
opinion.
