RSS/Atom: An idea whose time

RSS/Atom: An idea whose time has come.Dave Winer is reaching out to the Atom people to try for the grand unification of the two formats. If you look back at the history of how Atom came to be, and the public record of the debates, disagreements, potshots that have come before you see that this is a couragous step for Dave to be taking. It's a first step which we all hope will lead to something great.

People should read what was written closely: particularly that this is not meant to be a final proposal but an opening set of ideas on how the unification might be accomplished (e.g. " And before stating the offer, let me say that I am open to counter-offers.")

It is important that we articulate the approach to the unification in a way that objectively respects and recognizes the value that both Atom and RSS are bringing to the table. I have no doubt that this will be a difficult effort requiring give on all sides, but it will set us back on a path where duplication of effort will be replaced by forward progress. It's worth it.