Re: Confusion of software index, software application wiki and gap database

[Dr. H. Nikolaus Schaller]

Am 10.05.2009 um 10:12 schrieb Zhang Weiwu:

> hns wrote:
> > That reminds me what the GNUstep Software Index is showing as content
> > (in a different layout).
> >
> >   http://www.gnustep.org/softwareindex/
> >
> > Maybe, it should be more part of the GAP Web Page?
> >
> > If it would help, we could add a database checkbox "GAP" so that it
> > shows only the GAP projects.
> There are 3 places where I can find description of a project.
>
>  1. http://www.gnustep.org/softwareindex/
>  2. http://wiki.gnustep.org/index.php/Category:Applications
>  3. GAP maintain introduction of their projects (some GAP projects
>     seems to be not listed on GAP frontpage yet)
>
> If I want to help update description of a software package  
> (especially if it is part of GAP), where should I update? Should I  
> submit patch to GAP webmaster, and then go to wiki page for 2nd  
> update, and software index to fill an update form?

IMHO there should only be two locations, but currently we have all  
three.

GNUstep SWI is thought to be a "master index" of all software -  
completely independent who is hosting it. It is also thought to be a  
communication tool (newsticker) where developers can post "I have a  
new version, please go here and there for more information".

And, of course, each project should have a project page somewhere that  
describes the details and is maintained by the developer(s).

The point 2 is somewhat historical when it was thought that a master  
index on a Wiki Page is easier to be maintained. Maybe, the users and  
community should decide how to continue between 1 & 2. I.e. from a  
user's perspective: which "master index" is easier to use and in which  
one is it easier to locate something.

GAP falls into the "developer maintained" category (as many other  
projects do). GAP does not collect ALL applications that are available  
for GNUstep so it is not a master index.

So if you contribute to GAP, please also post an update on the SWI. If  
you contribute to Etoile, please as well. The same for other projects  
and applications that are neither GAP nor SWI.

I hope this clarifies a little.

BR,
Nikolaus