Franz I think this approach is very wise (IMHO). Every journey starts with the first step etc etc...
By 'going live' with a BASIC slimmed-down stable version for general release I am confident FLARUM will gain traction quickly, and in doing so will likely attract other devs. to help out. A committed 'fan base' of actual users on actual 'live' sites will provide a considerable amount of useful feedback (and loyalty). Hopefully there will be coders out there who can jump-in and provide additional help - thus accelerating FLARUM development.
Nothing in this world is ever going to be PERFECT, and although I applaud the well intentioned desire to have FLARUM as close to perfect 'out of the box' - NOTHING ever is? Design, integration, functionality, branding, monitorization - the list is endless....
GUYS! Stop fretting about perfection or else all your hair will fall out - like mine did! Let's start with the basics and go from there. At least then we we have a 'track to run on' - even if there are many hurdles along the way ?
I know very little about technology or coding (wrong generation) but I do know (as a successful businessman) that there is a vast difference between those who TALK and those who DO. With this in mind - K.I.S.S.
(Keep It Simple, Stupid).
I don't think anyone here is looking for a 'Ferrari' thats in the workshop more than it's on the road. As long as FLARUM is as reliable as a LEXUS it doesn't have to be the the most complicated thing out there. We can all see the potential and you've done 99% of the hard work. Remove anything that needs more TLC and lets start driving the basic model soon... Some of the fancy stuff can be added later?
Ultimately, you [lovely] chaps developing FLARUM can only do so much. It doesn't matter how AMAZING Flarum is. It's all about active members, engagement & CONTENT. A basic lightweight stable version (that can be improved over time) will enable numpty's like me to 'get started' and praise your virtues to others. I am very excited about FLARUM and I think it's a winner. Just don't fall into the trap of wanting everything perfect from outset - everything takes time...
In the interim I will delay the launch of my new forum until FLARUM is out of BETA. I am quite happy to wait a while and launch with FLARUM than accept anything else currently available. I really like the attitude of everyone here and on GITHUB concerning FLARUM. It is refreshing to see such friendly collaboration and passion. Although I have no technical ability to help out, I have in the past paid for bespoke add-ons, Plugins and functionality for sites, which I have then allowed devs. to share open source. I am sure this will happen with FLARUM too, so I shall 'give back' where I can.
Keep up the great work. Again, my sincerest regards and best wishes for all the time, effort and countless hours everyone has contributed to this exciting project. It's people like you chaps who help to bring a little happiness into the world - GOOD ON YOU!
Andrew.x
