"It's too early to tell what areas of growth will be best for Nominet" says Russell Haworth, walking in the door.
But why growth? At least as an end in itself? Nominet is supposed to be a "not for profit"! It is without doubt the dash for growth that has created the farce of the dot UK name. This new domain type is being marketed by Nominet with this kind of nonsense:
"A .uk domain name tells your customers, visitors or supporters that you believe in a safe and trusted online experience, whether you are developing a business, running a charitable organisation or writing a blog online.". Really? Not!
Mr C Hill says "Are they running a business or a protection racket?". I'd say they're just focused on building their empire. It has to be said that, so far, that's been pretty successful, and their coffers are overflowing. As a result they can indulge themselves in vanity projects such as the "Nominet Trust". They even gain VIP entry to the "green blob":
"Nominations are open globally, and can cover projects using technology in a wide array of social problems, from education, human rights abuses, and health to *climate change*“ (Nominet Trust, My emphasis).
The world is changing of course. With everything becoming available - dot butcher, dot baker, dot candlestickmaker, and all stations inbetween - what room for "growth" and empire-building remains for Nominet? No doubt the outgoing Lesley Cowley had seen the writing on the wall. Good riddance I say.