> But that supposes that all user needs can be met that way[...] No, it doesn't. Giving the user a good user experience does not mean it's the absolute best-en

> But that supposes that all user needs can be met that way[...] No, it doesn't. Giving the user a good user experience does not mean it's the absolute best-end-all experience. > the proprietary application provider will inevitably have to prioritize some classes of users over others. Those users whose needs are not within the functional scope of the application are going to find their experience quite horrible. The problem you're outlining here completely applies to open source communities, standard bodies and companies (it has nothing to do with open versus proprietary protocols). Everyone has to prioritize things and certain priorities will not meet the needs of all users. I would also argue that users whose needs are not within the functional scope of an application...should look for an application that meets their needs as best as possible. Not everyone is going to have all of their needs met with anything.