BF, "The unanimous conclusion others gave from their experiences was that we should write off a system that has no awards......There are enough industry awards around that just about anyone can earn one someplace."
I personally would find that logic flawed and contradictory. To me, that could indicate that awards are completely meaningless and therefore should not be considered in the evaluation at all. At least that might be my first take on the situation. But, I assume it worked out for you, so perhaps it was the right conclusion.
Maybe my logic on this subject is a little tainted by the fact that I am currently trying to determine what methods are used by the various "agencies" that rate on-line brokers! I have actually challenged some by questioning if the "rater" had ever actually had "hands on" experience with the systems that were rated. In at least one case, I found out that the ratings were based solely on what the brokers told them they offered. I suspect that is true in many cases and, often, that is quite different from what is actually provided by the broker. It is very much a matter of interpretation. What sounds good or looks good in writing is often quite different than reality.
I have also found this to be true through my experience on two separate projects in my job - 8 years apart - to find the "best" Customer Service/Inventory Control/Distribution/Financial System to meet OUR needs. And again, I maintain that the awards could also be completely meaningless and unrelated to a client's requirements.
I guess all this really has nothing to do with ZULU/ESVS - guess I just got carried away with one of my most frequent and favorite "debates" of my job. Worse yet, when I began I was considering the "best in class" a good sign, but I think I have just argued for the other side! Hummmm.....must be late. LOL
I still WANT to believe in ZULU...that I suppose is the real problem. But at this point it really doesn't matter much. I think it is too late for hyping or bashing. If I am going to lose in this investment, I have pretty much already lost it! Can't get much worse....
Night all, and Good Luck to the shareholders
Bill |