[SEEK-Taxon] RE: GBIF and TCS-LC for data exchange

[Richard Pyle]

> Rich wrote:
> > However, if Wiki it is to be, I think it
> > would be tremendously more efficient for making progress if we could
> > designate ONE Wiki as the location where the LC/TCS integration
> issues are
> > discussed.
>
> Well, one Wiki would contain many similar pages, each contains the
> same dicrussion.

True -- but I was referring mostly to the two (or more?) entirely different
Wiki sites on which disccussions of LC and its connection with TCS have
historically occurred.

> Following Wiki is also harder than reading e-mail especially over
> time difference, in my experience.

Emboldened by Paul's and James' comments, perhaps I could suggest
establishing an email list dedicated to LC, including its relationship with
TCS.  The seek-taxon list could be a forum for this sort of discussion, but
I have a hunch that it might represent too much clutter for that list
(SEEKers? Your thoughts?)  The ICZN list is hosted here at Bishop Museum --
if nobody else has a convenient way to establish an email discussion list, I
could inquire about setting up one here for LC.

Of course, the email lists and Wikis are not mutually exclusive mechanisms
for discussion.  They can complement each other rather nicely, I think. I
understand the theoretically improved efficiency and archivability and
flexibility offered by a Wiki over a straightforward email list; and the
"Wiki-Warriors" could take it upon themselves to transfer significant email
list posts over to the Wiki (I would be willing to serve in this capacity).
The Wiki could also serve as a repository for downloadable files.  However,
if the absence of an email list means a significant reduction in discussion
input from certain highly insightful folks (like Paul), then I think it
would be a mistake not to establish such an email list.

Also, there's nothing like an email message in an indbox (especially one
that includes content, rather than simple links to updated Wiki pages) to
keep a discussion moving forward.

Aloha,
Rich

Richard L. Pyle, PhD
Database Coordinator for Natural Sciences
Department of Natural Sciences, Bishop Museum
1525 Bernice St., Honolulu, HI 96817
Ph: (808)848-4115, Fax: (808)847-8252
email: deepreef at bishopmuseum.org
http://www.bishopmuseum.org/bishop/HBS/pylerichard.html