| Unfortunately, this is the case. I missed the base note completely,
and I see that the poster has deleted the note now that the rule has
been brought to their attention. It is easy to infract the rules so
no one should feel embarrased if they have done so accidentally or
unknowingly. This note on my part is not meant to be scolding,
therefore, but only to make the rule clear for others.
DEC is in a rather tricky position in regard to not directly business
oriented use of its network (by which I mean, of course, DEC's
business). The network belongs to it and it is legally responsible for
what it allows to be done with it. Businesses without access to the
network could legitimately complain that DEC is promoting some businesses
(i.e., ones owned, associated with, or otherwise actively supported for
personal reasons by DEC employees) at the cost of others with its
networks therefore hurting their business. DEC has therefore granted
permission to its employees to use the network for conferences like
this one *conditional* on there being no solicitation.
There is some vagueness in the rules. When does "solicitation" stop
and simple information to interested people start? Hard to say, and
so many cases have to be decided on quite subjective grounds having to
do with wording etc. But what is quite clear is that employees cannot
directly solicit for an ongoing business in which they have a personal
or financial stake. (But note, even if your note doesn't fit that
criterion it may not pass muster -- us moderators just have to use
our judgement).
Its unfortunate, since frequently the information would be of interest
to the members of the conference. But the alternative would be that
DEC would not be able to allow this conference at all.
Topher
|