Dear CompuServe User:
As you may know, the CompuServe Information Service is
implementing a new method for the communications software of CIS
customers to use when interacting with the service. The system
or protocol is called HMI which stands for Host Microcomputer
Interface. It is now being implemented in some forums and will
be gradually introduced to CompuServe forums over the next
several months. It is scheduled to be introduced to the
Disabilities Forum on March 30, 1996.
What does this mean to you? It means that if you use an
ASCII-based communications program like Procomm, Telix, {COMMO},
Crosstalk or the like, you will soon not be able to use
CompuServe forums. It is my understanding that some forums, such
as those for older computers like Amiga and Atari, will not be
changed over, but that all other forums will be changed.
Further, the change to HMI will also eventually involve
CompuServe Mail.
There are a number of programs, such as DOSCIM, WINCIM,
CISComm, and TAPCIS that do or will incorporate the HMI protocol.
What is apparently missing though is a speech synthesis friendly
basic terminal program incorporating the HMI protocol. I presume
that such a program is possible. However, CompuServe has not
developed one, has not consulted with operators or members of the
Disabilities Forum, with members of organizations of the blind or
other groups of disabled persons, or anyone for that matter.
What can we do? Well, there probably isn't much we can do
at this late date about HMI. CompuServe has started its
implementation and isn't likely to change. Also, I fully
understand that progress and change will occur in the computer
field. there are real benefits to HMI for CompuServe. It
apparently makes high-speed communications more reliable and
accurate. Further, Forums are being expanded and will have
additional capacity. However, there are better and worse ways in
which CompuServe can go about these changes and I don't think
they did very well this time. They gave us little notice,
consulted with no one, and have limited our options. I believe
that we must protest this move so that they consult with us in
the future and plan these changes better. I for one have been a
loyal CompuServe customer for ten years, having spent thousands
of dollars on the service. I consider this to be a real slap in
the face to my loyalty. CompuServe is developing a variety of
new services which we know about, and probably others that we
don't know about yet. We must urge them to consult with us to
ensure that these new services offer full access to all
CompuServe customers. It is easier and cheaper to do this up
front rather than having to add it later.
I have written a letter to Bob Massey, the President of
CompuServe, which I am uploading here separately. I would urge
you to contact him, contact CompuServe Magazine, send a note to
CompuServe by typing "go feedback," and/or calling CompuServe's
Customer Service department. You can reach them at:
CompuServe
Attn: Customer Service
P.O. Box 20212
5000 Arlington Centre Blvd.
Columbus, Ohio 43220
Telephone Number:
Free phone: 800-848-8990
Direct: (614) 529-1340
Fax Number: (614) 529-1611
Hours: Monday - Friday
8:00 to 24:00 (EST)
Saturday and Sunday
12:00 to 22:00 (EST)
As I said, HMI is probably inevitable. However, we need to
guarantee that CompuServe consults with us to ensure that future
services are accessible and that we have the time to prepare for
these changes.
Cordially,
David Andrews
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