Re: [OT/Sometimes Windows is better] Horrible GNOME File Picker (Was: Open (helper application chooser) for iceweasel/icedove is too simple)
On 1/11/07, marc <gmane@auxbuss.com> wrote:
Wim De Smet said...
> On 1/11/07, marc <gmane@auxbuss.com> wrote:
> > But that's my point, really: why continue to clone TC, when there are so
> > many additional functions out there on other tools that leave TC in the
> > dust? If devs stick their heads in the sand and ignore developments then
> > things will atrophy. In fact, in the domain of file mangers, I think
> > they atrophied some time ago on Linux. And that's a shame.
>
> I know that in the case of nautilus at least the devs have chosen to
> drop a lot of options in the name of usability.
In the same way that Bush uses the word 'freedom' ;-) Reducing
functionality does not equate to improved usability. Chopping off my
legs certainly makes me a more compact human being. Gouging out my eyes
makes my brain less 'bloated'.
Adding features sacrifices clarity and consistency for a (perceived)
gain in productivity and/or usability. (by some definition) My point
is that where you draw the line is a matter of personal preference.
You could try backing up your particular view with market research but
I'm not sure if anyone has done that for nautilus. I seem to recall
some studies a couple of years ago about gnome usability at red
hat(?).
>[...]
What I actually think is that Linux app devs are the most conservative
on the planet. I think that once an app is mainstream - gains some
recognition - that that conservatism is compounded and a fear of failure
takes over and the atrophy begins. Worse, sometimes the app regress - I
cite Gnome as the leading example.
> I think what you should really do right now is scratch that itch and
> build your own file manager.
LOL The cry of the true conservative. At least you didn't suggest I "go
back to Windows, which you clearly love" or some such nonsense.
It's not nonsense. If you really think that you can build something
better than anything that is currently out there, you should. I think
you are the conservative one in this argument, waiting for the world
to mold to your idea of how it should be, instead of actively changing
it. (isn't being progressive actively supporting change?)
There are some excellent areas of innovation in Linux - and there always
will be - but 'success' seems to taint apps with the kiss of death, or,
at least, turns them to stone.
I dunno, Gaim for instance has seen a lot of changes. Sure, it's a
typical app, always going for the less is more approach in UI, but it
sure did evolve into something better. Maybe what you're seeing is the
interest lately in usability, and a particular view on usability that
you don't support.
greets,
Wim
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