I completely understand the potential this and similar questions have for discussion and understanding. As mentioned, it has been kicked around many times in the past. But I am going to be brutally honest....... It isn't going to change many minds, if any, from past discussions on the subject. I say that because....

It is much like we met in a conference room, metaphorically speaking, at say, a Holiday Inn. In that meeting we kicked this question around and all in attendance chimed in. OK, Now we load up the bus and move those same people in attendance to say, a conference room at the Radison. We now ask the same question.

I guess what I'm getting at is "same people, same question, different room." The only thing that changed much is the room. Most people already have their minds made up and have moved towards their wishes, agendas or desires on this and other significant issues. I see no point in preaching to the choir but to a small degree. Especially when a little research on history of events, similar hobbies (successful and not so successful) and business ventures will answer this question for anyone willing to do so.

So without preaching to the choir, too much, YES, standardization is essential to the continuous growth and success of this hobby, especially in a public arena. That said, I encourage anyone who doubts or does not agree to do what makes them happy. I mean, after all, if one is not happy with what they are doing then why play? With or without standards, do what you want to do. It's your money, your stuff and your enjoyment that is on the line. Don't put too much on thinking you need to get on board a particular bus and don't put too much on worrying that you may have missed a particular bus. Concentrate on enjoying the trip - a trip you want to go on. The rest, I assure you, is far less important.

Nothing mentioned above is solely to do with EF. It's just common sense that applies to many aspects of life. There are always exceptions to the rules and there are always exceptional situations. But as worded, they are exceptions and exceptional. Not the norm.

-Mike Pratt