John,

>snip<

>Sure... I get PO'd I just don't burden other people with it. And sure, within reason, I let other people vent. That said, it is an emotional topic, not germane to a technical discussion...
>

I think this is the "nub" of the differences I'm seeing here between what you are saying and what those who disagree with you are saying.

It is entirely unrealistic for you or I to expect others to react to the world the way we do! Not only that, it's downright stupid and, quite frankly I'm amazed that someone with your intelligence would even suggest that. Don't misunderstand me here.... I have several strongly held beliefs (ask Tamar *g*) that I think if people neglect they are is DIRE trouble but I also recognize that I simply cannot, by the sheer force of will or my desire, change their minds. I won't back down from these positions whatsoever and I will not hesitate to stand up for them either but I'm not going to presume that because I hold them stongly that others will also; even though it breaks my heart that they will not. I have to be mature about how I present my side, and so do you. And everyone else for that matter.

Whether YOU "get PO'd" about how users react to software is entirely germaine to the discussion whereas your emotional reaction is the one without value. Neither my users nor yours could care less what we think or feel, only what they think and feel. I think this isn't the way life should be, but it is the way life is.

Look.. The user who is upset (frustrated) with any particular UI isn't having a logical experience. *g* They are having an emotional one and logic does a pretty poor job of resolving emotional issues. You need both.

I'll presume you're married. When your wife is upset do you solve her troubles with logic or by being sympathetic (translate:emotionally understanding) to her?

Case closed. *bg*

A successful UI (defined as more easy rather than less easy to use) takes this not only into consideration but IMO it is one THE primary issues of a successful programming experience.

Best,

DD

>snip<