ATM Trashing Companies

[UC007@aol.com]

On this subject I have to put in my two cents worth. I agree with those who
are against using this list to trash companies or their products. If  a
particular problem occurred, and one feels "his/her ox has been gored", then
take up the issue with the company directly and privately. If no satisfaction
is received, then resort to the civil court system if the situation is
serious enough. 

Factual, unemotional reporting of specific difficulties encountered with a
company is not trashing the company. Broad generalizations about the dubious
ancestry of company management and its products certainly is trashing the
company and may be considered libelous.

Disclaimers for the content of the list by the list owner can only go just so
far in protecting the owner from legal action. It would be a shame to lose
this list as the result of legal action on the part of an offended company.
Two companies have been attacked vehemently during the short period I have
been a member of the list, and human nature being what it is, I am sure they
will not be the last. It is important for companies to achieve customer
satisfaction, but when difficulties arise it is important that the customer
go about getting satisfaction in the right way. Trashing the company is not
the right way.

Mel is doing a marvelous thing for us all. I think he merits our support and
protection.

Thanks,
Bill Fries, EAS