CompuServe Thread

Bob: You replied to me, but I >think< your reply was meant to add to what I said to the individual that was concerned about product support. I suggested that he contact Ms. Bartz if he didn't agree with the policy. I didn't mention the contract support since it is, I feel, irrelevant to 95% of the 3DS users. I don't think that there are many shops with 20-30 stations (my calculation as to what an appropriate ratio of product to a single support contract should be) and so those of us who sit at a computer with a single copy of 3DS can spend 3000 bucks on other more appropriate measures to improve our ability to use the product. Autodesk has always had the standard line that their dealer support channel is doing what should be done by Autodesk because 'they are trained to use the products'. At least you had the common sense to include a disclaimer as to 'if they continue to use the product its another matter [sic]'. There are definitely good dealers out there… but I can't FATHOM why Autodesk would expect someone to make a living at selling this product AND have the time to master it to the extent that support will satisfy even 80% of the users. It is, to be kind, a head in the sand approach… I don't use nearly as many products as a dealer must sell to stay in business… I write books about your products as well as practice architecture. If I didn't take the time to write a book to >force< me to learn how to use the product there is no way that I could run around and talk even remotely intelligently about >just< the products I use. It is ludicrous to assume that someone can make a living, have a family, and be an expert at the range of products that the dealers must support… given the complexity of the Autodesk products and the depth of understanding that their interfaces require. Please sober up, Autodesk. The only viable support that I have seen for ANY of your non-retail products is this forum… THE AYATOLLAHYOU