This is short comment from the CLICK4HP list host and co-administrator.

The comment is "evidence-based" and stems from running lists for 18 years
and a total of over 100 "list-years" of hosting a portfolio of lists, a
number them in the health field. First the "evidence" then the list policy
implications.

It is easier to read something as rude in a list discussion when the same
words or language in a meeting room conversation would be ignored.  They
will annoy someone and the response will trigger a flurry of "yes he
did/no she didn't" messages not unlike some of those "I don't like your
tone" exchanges in family disputes.

The best initial respose, all around, is a bit of sober second thought
around word choice before hitting the "Send" key. If there are no tone
issues there is no tone response. The best response is to cut the "tone"
complaint to a polite passing phrase like "Ouch, a bit harsh there" and
return directly to the issues at hand.

Another aspect of list dialogue, observed by many, is the opposite of what
people are used to in meetings. In meetings people who are polite in the
group can be very rude/dismissive in the hallway conversations at breaks
and after the meetings. In list discussions, people who can be abrasive on
the list are almost always polite as can be in bilateral email in the
"halls" around the list. The policy lesson there is to go "off list" with
a polite email around tone, which usually elicits a polite response. It
also keeps the list rolling along on focused on the issue at hand.

Lastly, to one and all, keep the multi-thread knowledge sharing going.

Sam Lanfranco, CLICK4HP ListHost/co-admin
Distributed Knowledge Project
York University
(co-admin Alison S. is on a well  deserved vacation)

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