Re: [Tools-discuss] Next steps: chat service trials

[Jim Fenton <[e-mail]>]

On 11 Dec 2020, at 11:17, Robert Sparks wrote:

> We are not aware of anyone trying to use the zulip or matrix servers 
> for ietf work outside the main meeting.
>
> If you've used the services, please take a few minutes to provide 
> feedback at [e-mail].

I have used them (both Matrix and Zulip, which my spell checker keeps 
changing to Tulip) a little. One problem I have is that they have 
different interaction models, and have different terminology for 
different things (like “streams” on Zulip). One instance of this is 
that when I first got myself set up on Zulip, I accidentally set up an 
“organization” for myself, which was a lonely place! I hadn’t 
understood whether organizations federated in a way analogous to Jabber 
servers or if one had to be part of the IETF organization. It didn’t 
cost anything and didn’t waste much time, so no problem there.

It might be nice to have a “cheat sheet” or wiki page or something 
to guide people who are familiar with some other mode of interaction 
(such as Jabber) on how that translates into this new service.

I have used Jabber for years with a variety of client software but 
continue to be just a little disappointed that some things don’t quite 
work smoothly. As an example, I have tried several times to subscribe to 
presence from Robert Sparks (and vice versa), we both think we’re 
approving everything, and it doesn’t quite happen. The spam problem on 
Jabber has been getting worse as well.

I find Matrix a bit hard to use as well. It seems like the distributed 
services, much as I like them conceptually, take a bit more effort to 
understand. That might be a barrier to entry for some.

-Jim