1. dry-run for the possible Interop '96 bake-off.
2. interoperability testing of the Printer MIB implementations that
shows up.
In order to achieve the objective #1, it was necessary to have a
free-running show, kinda duplicating a Interop. However, in order to
organize the environment somewhat, it was also necessary for each vendor
to summarize what they brought with them, and what they were planning on
showing.. I think we were definitely able to duplicate the same hectic
environment as a show would have. But, where we have failed was gathering
information from each vendor regarding to their sw and hw
implementations. Most of us were busy trying to get the printers up and
running, and others were sitting in groups having conversations.. I think
it is hard to organize this type of activity as a dry-run for a show..
However, identifying our objectives in advance would help to organize the
nature of the bake-off..
Unlike Jay, I feel we have achieved the #2 objective during the
bake-off.. This is more a question of, is the glass half full or half
empty.. This was the first time all the vendors got together and checked
their interoperability implementations.. It is great to see the reports
coming back, and also to know that we could most likely fix these
problems for the future just by clarifying few areas in the MIB (ok..
they are the most important areas, but still.. It is easy to do, now that
we know what is wrong..) However, doing a more formal interoperability
testing in the future would be more beneficial, as well..
Overall, was the bake-off a success?? In my mind, anything that I learn
from is a success, even if I fail at it!! What do you think, is the glass
half-full, or half-empty?? Important thing for us is to learn from it,
and document it, so we don't make the same mistake twice..
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Binnur Al-Kazily Hewlett-Packard Company Internet Solutions Operation
binnur@boi.hp.com (208)396-6372 KB7WYD DoD #2010