InformixLink

Thanks to those of you who have taken the time to contact me directly or have posted comments regarding InformixLink here to comp.databases.informix. I hope that this message will shed some light on a number of issues that have been raised. Why InformixLink? ================ Our goal is to provide you with quick access to accurate information on product availability, porting schedules, bugs and workarounds, etc., where ever you are, whenever you need it. We believe that electronic delivery of this information is one of the most effective ways that we can accomplish this goal. In the US, and in a number of other countries, we offer each Basic Maintenance/Assurance and Standard Support/OpenLine customer *free* access to many of the InformixLink resources, as described in this message. Several InformixLink resources are available on a paid, subscription basis and are indicated below. Internet, rlogin access ======================= We hear your request for rlogin, Internet access to InformixLink. Discussions with our network services provider indicates that they are also interested in addressing this issue. If and when we get a resolution, you'll hear about it. Worldwide Offering ================== InformixLink _is_ available around the world, in most cases by dialing a local node or by routing through your public data network. Our goal is to offer free views with all Basic Maintenance/Assurance and Standard Support/Openline contracts _worldwide_. However, not all countries worldwide have implemented this approach. If you're located outside of the US, the safest bet is to contact your local Informix representative and find out what's offered in your country. In the US, simply call customer services. InformixLink Performance ======================== Regarding performance issues, get connected at 9600 bps for maximum transfer rate. Once you're connected and have logged in, you'll find that the full-text search databases are remarkably quick. If you experience menu delays or system sluggishness, please report the problem to customer services immediately so that problems can be identified and addressed. InformixLink Pricing ==================== In the US, Informix provides a basic set of information to all maintenance and support customers that is bundled with the maintenance/support contract. If you have maintenance/support and don't have your passwords, call Informix customer services and request them. Here is a chart that depicts free vs paid resources. Basic Standard $500 for US Maintenance Support Full-View Port availability yes yes yes Bugs fixed by release yes yes yes Porting schedules yes yes yes Training information & schedules yes yes yes Error messages yes yes yes Vendor catalogs yes yes yes User group connection yes yes yes Developer's forum no partial full Alerts/announcements partial full full Tech Notes library no 1 issue all TechInfo database no no yes Bug reports & queries no no yes Initiate a tech support case no no yes Electronic mail no no yes Press releases and collateral no no yes Quality Technical Information ============================ It is true that there is not as much interaction among developers as you find here. People seem to use InformixLink as a look-up, research tool, and not a discussion vehicle. However, I'm determined to find a way for InformixLink users to benefit from all of the great technical discussion that goes on here on the net. Special thanks to those of you who provided input into this at the User Conference.