FDS Beta Test Instructions

["Kevin McGrattan" <kevin.mcgrattan@nist.gov>]

All

We're getting great feedback this week on FDS 5, along with the new web pages and support environment.  One clarification however --  
we're currently testing two types of feedback mechanisms. The first is what we call the "Issue Tracker."  This is where you report a 
bug, or ask a quick clarification question, or report whatever specific problem you might be having.  The issue is assigned to one 
of the developers, and the problem is worked until it is resolved.  This is convenient for us, and hopefully you, because once it is 
assigned to someone, the rest of us know who is working the issue.  Since we are not in one location, this is very helpful.  Once 
the problem is solved, the case is closed, and we no longer have to worry about it.

The second method of feedback is the Group Discussion, which is what most of you have been using thus far.  This is preferable for 
more general issues for which there is not necessarily something to be fixed.  For example, "Does anyone know where I can get ...?" 
or "Has anyone ever done this?"  These discussions can go on and on, and no one in particular need be assigned to it.  It is truly a 
"Group Discussion."

When we eventually release, we fear that the Group Discussion could get overwhelmed with minor bugs and questions, making it 
difficult to find more relevant topics.  So let's give the Issue Tracker a try now for all the problems that demand immediate 
resolution.  Bryan has slightly modified the FDS Home Page http://www.fds-smv.net/  to guide you quickly to either feedback page.

Kevin

Kevin McGrattan
National Institute of Standards and Technology
100 Bureau Drive, Mail Stop 8663
Gaithersburg MD 20899
Phone: 301 975 2712
Fax:       301 975 4052