>What I really do know is with VFP spokespeople like you on our side who needs >enemies? Don't you think you have a slight pessimistic attitude!

What, the fact that I think the UT and CIS, and the community at large is pretty strong already? Me saying that is a bad thing? If anything, I am very optimistic about the community. All I am asking is for more fact about how the group would work in light of the fact that $'s are being solicited....

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>UT and FoxForum are technical forums to provide technical assistance to developers of FoxPro. A Professional Organization provides accreditation to the Users and Tools/Services of the subject. Surely someone of your standing understands this simple issue.
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The VFPDA being an accredited body.....by whom. It can't be accredited by itself. Are you saying the VFPDA would be on par with the AICPA, the AMA, etc? I think you may be expecting a bit too much from things. And, if it were an accredited body, it would need some type of exam to gain entry.


>To clarify, no one needs M$'s permission to sell the strengths of providing solutions with commercially available tools.
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True, but to place ads, you need MS permission to to use the VFP name and associated trademarks. With regard to selling the strengths of VFP, can't you do that today? Why do you need a VFPDA to do that? What would a VFPDA provide that you don't have today? This is the question that nobody is answering....

>The real goal here of course it to enlighten the Customer/Corporate base as to reasons why Providers using this product can add value. The goal is not to advertise to get additional Developers using FoxPro. If item one is accomplished then the second occurs automatically.
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Once again, how would you go about doing this, in light of the fact that MS is not pushing VFP as a strategic tool?

>Finally, programs like the Excellence Awards, case studies, and technical strengths should be packaged and distributed via mailings. This same information should be sent to publications for their review. This would definitely help more than to pay for advertising in their publications.
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Have you suggested this??? Once again, why would you need a VFPDA to do that???