From FlexNet:
October 20th Friday
Okay folks, enough is enough. I am stopping putting up anymore FlexNet fan mail, pro or
con. The volume is getting too heavy, and I am getting behind in my work. Responses from
these past few days are indicative of the current stream of fan mail. I really do
appreciate all comments, good or bad. But enuff is enuff.
del wong
FlexNet
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 18:57:52 -0700
From: Andy Lopez
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: DAMN THE STOOPIDS! FULL SPEED AHEAD
The two t-heads on TECHTV'S SCREENSAVERS just opened today's show with a segment on
your site, man what a hoot. Maybe the only socially redeeming aspect of television is
letting us know about good people like youse puttin' up the good fight
against STOOPIDITY!!! You guys rule!!
Not only is accessing and surfin' the web NOT rocket science, IT'S NOT EVEN COMPUTER
SCIENCE! Neither is configuring a pc to dial out to an ISP. If somebody is breathin'
and can poke a button, and can partly think about what happened when they poked it,
they shouldn't need tech support. The biggest problem I see people having is thet they
just ABSOLUTELY REFUSE, or won't, or don't have or just CAN"T make the time or have
the patience to READ TFM! Mostly 'cause reading leads to that other dreaded activity
most folks would KILL to avoid, and that's THINKING!!!
Ok, enuff rant for now, I gotta start mailing your page to all the AOL suscriber
"friends" I can remember. :-)
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 21:49:45 EDT
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: well done
Heh I love the attitude :-) I'm not in Hawaii but I would totally get DSL
from you guys if I was there. Tech support is bullshit.
----
Jonah Cohen
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Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 21:42:43 EDT
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: FlexNet/VirtualWebsites.Com
I like your moto! I actually found myself impressed that a company would say
such things to potential customers. I agree that it is time that companies
crawl out of their customers' asses. Keep up the good work!
-Lawson Earl
ps: I hate aol
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 20:35:17 -0500
From: Duane Hart
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Jeez, you got GUTS!
I just saw a segment on Tech TV about you guys and all I can say is
"ROCK ON, MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU, COOL DUDE, AND FAR OUT"!! Really
makes me wish I wasn't in Minnesota! AOL is the PUS in the Boil on the
ASS of the world wide web! Keep up the good work! Sincerely yours,
Melonman in MN
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 21:41:31 -0-500
From: Bert
To: del
Subject: When you were offline...(via HumanClick)
Hey there,
I currently work for an unnamed ISP. I really appriciate what you do. I wish I could tell
people some of the things you do. People just tend to think they are special and shouldn't
have to learn computers they way everyone else in the world has. Congrads, and I hope that
you continue to prosper!
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 20:19:11 -0500
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: Damn, you guys rock...
I just happened across your site from a link on the message board over at
www.pcmech.com, and you guys have had us laughing for the past two hours. I
work moron-support for a legal research dot-com, and wish you guys the best
of luck in that class-action suit against AOHell. If only more ISP's would
do what you've done. I'm currently a telco ADSL subscriber, and literally
have to yell "SUPERVISOR!" each time I call to report an outage, cause the
moron tech support staff doesn't know any words of the English language
outside of "power cycle your modem?", "reinstall your software?", "if you
have a firewall, turn it off?"
Although I live in BF-Arkansas, I'm tempted to sign up for a dialup account
from you guys just on principle...
Keep it up!
Neal Clayton
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 18:13:50 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Cool site
If I lived in the islands you would be my ISP: it wouldn't even be open for
discussion.
My brother lives in the islands, you aren't his ISP for all the reasons you
list!:)
[as found on TechTv - The ScreenSavers]
Kevin
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 18:08:35 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: just wanted to say...
...that I actually wish I lived in your service area, because
it looks to me like you guys have the best ISP I've ever
seen. I've done 4 years of technical support, and quite
frankly, it's a horrible industry to be in. I have nothing but
respect for a company that does away with that job all
together. You guys seriously rock. :)
-d
--
Donna
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 21:09:52 -0400
From: BlitzK / Xenu
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: you're on TV!!!
You're on THE SCREEN SAVERS on TechTV (aka ZDTV)
www.thescreensavers.com
YOU GUYS ROCK!!!!!
I think I'm going to move to Hawaii just go I can use you guys, keep it up!
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 20:51:42 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: your sign up page rocked!
If I didn't already have broadband access, I would jump to you guys in a second! I'm
laughing so hard I can hardly type.
Thanks,
Chris J
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 16:23:50 -0700 (PDT)
From: Jason Ziemlak
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Service..
I think your idea and approach is great with what you are doing. If I
lived in Hawaii, I would definatley use you as my ADSL provider... Shit,
I'm thinking about hosting my sites with you guys ..
And to the people in the Fan-CON section:
FUCK OFF
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 19:01:26 -0-500
From: John
To: del
Subject: When you were offline...(via HumanClick)
When you guys open a NC branch, I'll be the first one to drop RoadRunnerSlowerThenShit and
join up with you guys...
You should change your name to the "The Bad-Ass ISP Company."
Aloha or some shit...heh
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 15:44:13 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: A for Attitude.
I'm in California, but if I lived in Hawaii, I'd sign up with you guys
in a minute. Keep it up -- it keeps those other guys honest.
Interesting factoid about the AOL suit. That explains why my wife's
system crashed and burned forcing me to re-do the operating system --
right after installing AOL 5.0 (I couldn't convince her to go with
Earthlink.)
Matt Jackson
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 18:32:05 -0400
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: Not a service question...
I just wanted to say that I hope FlexNet sets up shop in Georgia REALLY
soon. Your policies are a welcome sight to me and everyone on the tech
floor here at Interland. Having a site like yours up takes some severe
brass, man. If I were in Hawaii, you'd be my ISP in a minute. Best of
luck!
Russ Matthews
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 16:26:02 -0600
From: "Hutchins, Mike"
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: You guys rule
I don't live anywhere near Hawaii, but if I did, you would be the isp for
me.. Why? Because I can't stand ignorant people either.. Have a great day..
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 17:23:28 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
It's true. Hawaii really is paradise.
Give 'em hell.
--
Greg Gaspard
SXSW Interactive Festival
Website Competition
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 16:51:00 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Kudos
First off, lemme say, if I lived in Hawaii, I would definitely subscribe to your
service. I do not, however, live there.
I was very impressed by your signup page. So impressed, I bookmarked it, and sent it to
every person I know who uses aol.
It's so nice to see a business actually go on the record as letting aol users know how
stupid they actually were/are.
I will be recommending your service to the few friends I have in Hawaii.
Keep up the good work!
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 17:53:47 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: KUDOS on your website
Man, it's nice to see an ISP who can put it so honestly. May the force
be with you, may you live long and prosper, may your dreams come true
and may your dog never get fleas.
Signed,
Someone with a clue.
-fishee
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 21:39:56 GMT
To: webmaster@flex.com
hi,
I do tech support in austin texas for like 30 isp's and all I got to say
"Amen!!!" I could only wish for the kinda of user policy you have! MUCH
MUCH respect!!!! You wouldn't belive(or maybe you might) the kinda people
that call and the problems that Satan's spawn of an ISP (aol) can do. It
can wreak unimaginable terror inside computers. We generally refer to aol
as the Virus. Which it is. I mean have you seen the adds? "all my friends
are on aol it's sooo cool" like if your not on it your not my friend.
man......fuck that. much respect!
-ben
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 16:11:44 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: I like your site
I positively LOVE the way you wrote the text on
http://www.flex.com/sign_up/
I agree - We don't need no steenking newbies, running up the prices for
us experts!!!! Tell it like it is! Yeah!
:-)
I'll be sure to pass around your URL to all my fellow geeks because it
is both humorous and refreshing to see the truth so unashamedly spoken.
-Doug
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 14:44:00 -0600
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Nice!
Hey! Greetings from Canada, eh!
After leaving my igloo this morning and firing up the ski-doo, I left for another
exciting day of supporting cable modem customers at the helpdesk where I work. Upon
opening my email, I noticed my usually firey boss had left me an email. Sure enough it
was a link to your site where you BLAST AOL customers and computer newbies.
Probaly the funniest thing I have read in a loooong time. Your attitude is just what
this sissy industry needs! You are upfront and honest about your service and what you
expect from customers. About time.
If I have to help one more dotting old granny set up her email in Outlook Express, I'm
leaving Canada, and comin to work for you bad asses!
Thanks for making my week!
Take Care
Dave
Internet Helpdesk Wounded in Action
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 15:07:57 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: ROFL
Saw your link on http://www.shugashack.com. You guys are great! I worked
tech support for a few years and understand that there are many people
out there (mainly AOL users) that just don't understand the Internet.
Even a large number of their support people are morons. (see
http://www.kelani.com/aol/calls.html) The fact that an ISP out there to
provide honest service, not charge the internet savy users for services
that they will never use, is quite refreshing. Yes there are certain
things out there, such as certain software and hardware, where support
is vital, but catering to this niche is going to be very successful in
the long run.
For all those that criticize your service, keep in mind that there is
about a 50% saturation of people connected to the internet, and that
number is not going up too fast anymore. Lower prices, faster
connections and more services will get my internet dollars and those of
the fast growing group other savy users. If other ISPs want to get
people to go their way, they will follow this lead and offer better
plans with no tech support or pay per instance support with lower
monthly fees.
Thanks for setting a great example.
Paul Jones
Information Systems Specialist
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 16:01:10 -0400
From: Robert Forsman
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: loved your web site
I just read http://www.flex.com/sign_up/ and I like it. If I lived in
Hawaii and didn't have Telocity DSL, I'd sign up with you guys.
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 20:54:59 +0200
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Impressive.
I just read your page at http://www.flex.com/sign_up/
I am so god-damned impressed that there finally is an ISP for the likes
of me.
If i lived in Hawaii i would sign up right away.
/Kreiger
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 12:44:15 -0600
From: Alasdair Gillespie
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: i love you
As a 2 year veteran of inet tech support, I just wanted to say I love you all. Every last
one of you. Spread the word, preach on and never take any shit from anyone.
p.s. can I have a job.
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 14:40:30 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: YOU ROCK.
I wish I lived in Hawaii so you could be MY ISP.
AOL has dumbed down internet users and kept them in a state of ignorance
long enough! If I choose to start my own ISP out here (and I may in a year
or two), I'm going to follow your lead.
Peace,
Ken Stuczynski
Owner / Lead Web Developer
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 14:44:20 -0-500
From: ekool
To: del
Subject: When you were offline...(via HumanClick)
Just wanted to say that i run a service myself, and i totally respect your policy and
honesty. I wish i could do the same with our service and increase my lifespan by 20 years
from stress relief. However, the bean counters will never allow it.
Maybee one day when i'm fed up with this, i'll move out to hawaii and retire on the nice
island and help you out, or something :) Keep up the good work, and keep on truckin'
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 13:22:22 -0500
From: grimlock
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Outstanding!
I just want to say you guys are the shit! I have been a systems administrator for the
last three years at two different ISPs. I had to deal with STUPID people day in and
day out. Customer - "Why won't my email program pull my email from your service?" Me
- "Propably because WE AREN'T your isp!" I wish the ISP I work for now would finaly
say 'screw you!' to the 'ex-AOL users', the so-called 'web design engineers', the 'i
heard about the internet and want to get on it' users, who have come to our ISP wanting
more than they can handle. Three cheers to you guys. Keep it up!
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 11:03:16 -0700
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: KICK ASS
I just ran across your site, an I have two words for you, KICK ASS! A lot
of my friends work in tech support an my oh my do the idiots really come
out. I think it's awesome that you reward users that give a damn about
technology an knowledge. Good luck, if I make it to the islands, I'll
definitely use your service!
-Kirsten C.
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 16:01:10 -0400
From: Robert Forsman
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: loved your web site
I just read http://www.flex.com/sign_up/ and I like it. If I lived in
Hawaii and didn't have Telocity DSL, I'd sign up with you guys.
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 13:20:59 EDT
From: Big Poppa Styles
To: webmaster@flex.com, support@flex.com
Subject: Greatest ISP Ever . . .
. . . that is what you are.
Having worked in tech support for a NY ISP . . . your front page absolutely
ripping into AOL users made my day. Thank you!
You are 100% correct.
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 13:21:26 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: I LOVE YOU GUYS!
You guys are great!! I'm so sick of newbie users. Now in my book a newbie
isn't the same as say a neophyte. A neophyte is just new to the field, a
newbie is new to the feild and refuses to learn and has an encyclopedia's
worth of preconcieved wrong ideas.
To all of you whiners that scream about them not having support on the cons
page, rememebr, if they're not supporting you idiots the have time to do
consulting, work on projects and other such BENEFICIAL things as opposed to
having a large staff doing nothing save going mad and spoonfeeding people
how to click start. Tech support usually ruins most technicians. Average
burn out time for phone techs is 18 months. Some less than that, I've
actually managed to make it 3 years, mind you I now smoke 3 packs a day.
Do car dealers explain to every person that comes down the pipe how to fix
cars, what all the knobs do and how to drive, then take responsibility when
the driver crashes into a light post? No. So why should ISP's do all that
when they usually didn't even sell the user their computer? There is no
real excuse. The vast population is using computer iliteracy as a crutch
and it sickens me.
Matt "Trollboy" Wiseman
Hero of every phone tech, BOFH
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 09:45:45 -0600
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: wonderful
I just had a friend e-mail me your link and I have to say...it's about fricken
time!!!!! I wish I lived in Hawaii so I could not only utilize your service, but talk
others into using your service and paying me to set everything up for them. This is
such a wonderful idea - and I loved the letter you sent the disgruntled user - what a
baby! I think whiners like him deserve what AOL gives - which really isn't much more
than what you guys offer, only at 2-1/2 times the cost - the difference is you have NO
tech support and AOL may as well have no tech support with the idiots they have helping
people - so I make a good buck here and there setting up these pansies with AOL in 10
minutes. From there on out, if they can't figure things out for themselves, they don't
deserve to be on the Internet.
Keep up the good work.
Susan Ruiz
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 10:24:47 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Fw: check this out
I got this message from my business partner.
We both just sold our ISP in Chicago, and I had an idea what he was eluding
to in terms of the world greatest, as far as what we as ISP owners would
think.
We were in business since 1995, and many years ago had a similar NO service
ISP idea in mind.
We never did it.
The thing that amazes us both is that you worded it exactly like we would,
and your pre-responses to the idiots that would read your site, sign up, and
then come back with questions is better than MAD magazine's silly answered
to stupid questions
What island are you guys on?
I go to the big Island alot, if you are there I would like to say hello
sometime.
I just signed up...
Mahalo for the Best ISP site ever.
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 08:24:58 -0700
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: Awesome
You guys are fantastic, when are you coming to Seattle?
Jeff Haskell | Logistics Coordinator
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 14:28:58 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: GREAT!
So when are you guys going to start an ISP in Washington state? I lived in
Hawaii before you were around. I love your idea of service and as long as
you do admit that you make mistakes sometimes I would(as well as others)
sign up with you in a min!
Matt Kopf
System Admin
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 10:47:46 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: I LIKE YOUR HOME PAGE
I just found your home page and I *REALLY* like the way you guys operate.
So.. When will you offer service in Pennsylvania? I'll be the
first to sign up! ;-)
Pete Rossi - WA3NNA
pete@pjrnet.com
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 09:44:16 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Your website
You may have just become my new personal hero's. A friend of mine sent me
the URL of your company because he and I have similar views of AOL and
net-newbies who try to flex their new found connectivity. I absolutely
admire your stand on AOL-ers. I make no great claim to being an expert or
anything, but I do have the brain power to operate a computer, and the
Internet without too much trouble. AOL-ers should stick to the baby-food
that AOL hands them, or learn to feed themselves. Keep up the good work! If
the world would refuse to cater to stupidity, stupidity would have to die
out. Computer Darwinism for everyone!
Bruce Ferguson
Arlington, Texas
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 09:13:33 -0500 (CDT)
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: An ISP run entirely by BOFHs
Got the link from A.S.R. The beauty and justice of the whole thing
brought a tear to my eye.
Why not just ROT-13 your signup page? That should keep most of the
droolers at bay.
Adam Maloney
Systems Administrator
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 01:31:59 -0700
To: "webmaster@flex.com"
Subject: hahahahhaaa......
I have to say that your introduction on your web page was funny and
straight to the point.............and was great reading ...thanks form
the main@land
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 19:15:23 +1100
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: You Rock!!!!!!
Dear FlexNet,
I had to write this email to you. I am a supervisor for an Australian ISP
Help Desk and couldn't agree more with what you list about "Newbies" taking
up your time and patience...... I wish we had the same policies that you
employ and tell customers to go with the other ISP that alway's seems to
work better than us.... Funny how they never do actually close there
account and go with the other mob..... Me personally, if I could get a
better connection else were, hell I'll do it.........
Once again, I just had to email you to tell you.....YOU ROCK!!!!!
Phil
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 18:39:14 +1000
From: Premier Lighting
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Hey
I was reading through your website (I found it via a link from
www.zgeek.com ) and I just wanted to say, when are you guy's coming to
Australia? We need more company's like you. You guy's DO rock. Oh and
BTW, you are probably the cheapest in the WORLD.
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 02:20:42 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: dat's right!
i wish the isp i work for had the same policies. i'd much rather support
people suffering from REAL problems, not their willful ignorance. the
curse of graphical interfaces - whether on a computer or the 'net - is that
they cause every clueless jerk out there to think that s/he doesn't need
to know anything to use them.
you guys are right. let the newbies learn on their own. then, when they
know what they're doing, let them join civilized society.
steve
p.s. got here via a link in a story at dslreports.com
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 02:04:16 -0400
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: I love your straight-forward attitude.
Love the straight-forward attitude... Got a real kick out of this site. I
agree 100%
Fred Krause
Customer Support Team Leader
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 01:07:19 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Unintentionally funny....or?
Good sweet lord! Your sign-up webpage was the funniest thing I have read
in the last week.
About gxd-dxmn time someone told the AOL-idiots the straight story. Your
no bullshxt approach to Internet service is both refreshing and honest.
I'm not sure if you're trying to be funny, but it sure was.
In any case, if I lived in Hawaii, I would sign up with your service on
your virtues of principle alone! (That and the 9.95 price is sugar-sweet).
Keep it real!!
-Patrick Bosworth-
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 05:51:37 GMT
From: Patrick Dobbs
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: you guys do rock!
Aloha, bruddah!
I saw parts of your webpage posted on a DSL user group site, and I couldn't
believe it. Finally, someone to tell these doorknobs where to stuff it when
they don't know what a DNS is!!!!
I wish someone here in Seattle had that kind of guts....I'm so tired of
these bloated, overpriced carebear ISP's that I could puke!
Best of luck!
-dd
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 23:46:40 -0500
From: Greg
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Tech Support
Excellent message on the tech support its about time someone stepped up and
told it the way it is -- good policy keep up the good work
Greg Childers
OKC- Oklahoma
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 23:12:52 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: I love your policy.
Hiya,
If I ever move to Hawaii i will most definately get my service thru you
guys, I love that AOL user policy =)
-- Ian
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 22:38:28 -0500
From: Don
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: very impressed!
wow, you have followed the grand scottish tradition of lifting your kilt and
showing other isp's what a real set looks like!
i work quite extensively on usenet, and see the kind of stupidity your site
refers to hundreds of times a day...give a man a fish and he eats once; give
a man a help file and he calls his isp or posts "WHERE CAN I FIND???"
messages without ever looking for himself first.
thanks for stepping up and telling it like it is. there's more than enough
free resources out there, and isp's shouldn't have to raise prices to take
on extra help for people that apparently can't read for themselves.
lastly, and you can quote me on this,
"AOL...the internet on training wheels."
thanks d00ds! i wish you were a local call from my area : )
icho'off
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 21:58:46 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Yo
You guys are funny. I don't live in Hawaii, and DSl access is only $40 CDN (bout $25
USD) but I can imagine you're cutting people a deal. Anyhow, I just wanted to let you
know that you're funny.
Regards,
Mike.
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 18:09:25 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: You guys rock
I am in the tech support industry and heard about your site on www.dslreports.com . I
just wanted to say thanks for saying what ive always wanted to say!!! You guys rock!!!
Sincerely,
David Albertson
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 19:40:59 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: YOU GO!!!
Please pass this on to DEL, etc at Flex.com
Guys/and girls if there are any,
I must say, I highly appreciate you frankness concerning end users and
their lack of initiating a thought process in the computer field. I,
and many, others in technical support land applaud your customer service
policy and the bluntness in speaking the truth.
As for myself, I deal with Firewalls, and you'd be suprised on those who
think they are admins but don't know crap. If you guys were in Texas,
I'd subscribed right now!
Anyway, just had to let you know I'm with you all the way!
Michael
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 19:06:03 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: cool isp
Saw your help section...there's too much info there. Don't give them so
many screenshots. Other than that I like your ISP. It sounds good.
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 18:01:00 -0800
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: sweeeeet
Hands down, this is probably the greatest site for any kind of a
business I have ever seen. I only wish there was an ISP like
FlexNet here in the states.
Thanx for your time,
Scott
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 15:12:32 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: You are gods...
...I just wanted to fire off a quick email to let you know... someone posted
a newsgroup post with your signup URL, stating this is the coolest ISP in
the world... so I clicked the link and saw the anti-aol user stuff, and just
laughed... that is REALLY awesome... we have =-price comapnies over here on
the west coast on the mainland, but none that was so blunt. You have my
respect, and the respoect of many non-AOL users, I am sure. :)
Regards,
Arilyn
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 15:45:33 -0500
From: Duncan
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: RE: Corporate Policy's
To you rockin dudes at Flex.
We work for a mid size MMDS Cable/ISP in Canada and recently came across
your web page.
We immediately fell in love with your Technical support philosophy and will
forever think of your service while we sit here helping people set up
outlook express and enter usernames.
NEVER SURRENDER to the ID10T users.
We salute you.
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 13:41:57 -0700
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Cc: William Timbrook , Katie O'Connor
Subject: Way to go!
Few business people have the guts to say "The customer is not always right."
I'm glad you do.
If I opened a store, it would be called "Grumpy's" and I would guarantee that
complaints would get you a kick in the butt out the door.
If EVERYONE WOULD QUIT CODDLING "T H E C U S T O M E R" maybe the customers would
learn some manners, and get smart in the process.
Way to go! I think I'll sign up just to contribute $10 a month!
":)
-- Louie in Seattle
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 14:33:11 -0600
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: we need you in colorado
Hi,
just some fan mail. we need an ISP like you in colorado, bad!
Pete
General computer geek
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 14:49:34 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: whine
I wish I lived in Hawaii, I'd go with you guys for an ISP.
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 12:55:32 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: I hope this catches on.
I hope you guys do well. Good attitude.
It is frustrating to have the cost of "Tech Support" factored into my
ISP fees.
I got a good laugh reading the "CONS". I learned that if your network
targets monkeys THEN your business plan is sound (probably not fair to
monkeys). Apparently there is no shortage of monkeys with MBAs.
Reactionary little buggars aren't they.
Aloha,
Peter.
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 12:51:28 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Flex Internet service
Hey, I don't want to sign up or anything, but a friend of mine sent me the link to
your service and it looks sweet. I wish we had something like that out in California,
I do tech. support for Earthlink and it sucks.
Brandon
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 15:27:08 -0400
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: Your website Rocks!
Hey Guys,
I have been working IT Support for over 11 years and could not agree with
you more about some end-users. Thank you for saying what those of us in the
trenches are thinking most of the time.
Later,
Nick C.
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 12:04:29 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Rock on
Hey there,
I don't need an account, but I just stumbled on your site. You guys rock. Thanks for
acknowledging that there are intelligent users out there who shun AssOLe.
Ty
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 15:08:10 -0-500
From: Neil
To: del
Subject: When you were offline...(via HumanClick)
You got a mention today on DSLReports! I too had to stop supporting those of my extended
family who insisted upon signing up with AOLame. Rock on.
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 13:14:21 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: About Flex.com
Just read your website and some words about you on DSL Reports, and I've got
to say "WHY THE HELL AREN'T YOU IN TEXAS?!?" Seriously, I'd love to have
access to a provider like Flex.com. Keep up the good work, and I hope ya'll
have lots of success. Peace.
Sincerely,
Jamie Avera
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 14:14:29 -0-500
From: Hoy
To: del
Subject: When you were offline...(via HumanClick)
Rock on! Any plans to go national? Let other ISP's handle the newbies, I'd kill for a
tech-savvy-only provider.
Good luck!
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 11:45:55 -0600
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Droppin a line
Hi There,
My name is Chris, i work for an ISP out of Canada. Strangely enough doing technical
support. I encountered your website while surfing the net one day and was really
fascinated.
I imagine you get alot of mail from people either complaining about the tone of the
site and/or criticizing your method of doing business. However i can really see the
allure of running your business this way and many of your analogies make alot of sense.
By not having to pay the cost of running a tehnical support department you save ALOT of
capital, both the initial startup costs which can be quite large and the constant cost
of salary. Also the other service you provide is one that many computer users are
sorely lacking in and that's education.
When a user realizes they don;t know something they panic and then suddenly comes the
warm comfy feeling of realizing "Oh wait, i can call technical support."
While this sounds good in theory, in practice it teaches people only one thing. That
they don;t have to learn anything. People have stopped even trying the simplest of
fix-it solutions, rebooting the computer, checking the plugs. None of these steps are
followed, before they check anything or try anything or even pick up a
book and try to learn something they will pick up the phone and call support.
At any rate i just thought i would send you something positive to let you know that i
think you're doing an awesome job and i really enjoyed your site.
Chris
P.S. Those are beautiful pictures of the Manoa Valley.
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 10:36:13 -0700
To: del@flex.com
Subject: More publicity
You also just got mentioned in the "Static Cling", the e-zine for
followers of the comic strip "User Friendly."
As follows:
User Unfriendly: Ever wondered if any users existed that had a firm grip on
the cluebat? http://www.flex.com/ is an ISP in Hawaii that doesn't baby their
customers. If you call up asking for help setting up your email, or wondering
how to set up a webpage, they'll kick your butt off of their service. That
must be the tech support dream job - getting to tell users to RTFM, with no
apologies. Thanks to falconr for sending in this one.
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 13:22:04 -0400
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: Great Idea
When are you coming to Maryland? There are many IT pros here that would
jump that the chance for 768 full duplex for under a $100.00 per month.
Good job and good luck.
Carson Williams
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 09:36:47 -0700
From: Jon
To: del@flex.com
Subject: Im in shock. An ISP that knows how to handle customers!
First off let me just add my two pennies to the butt load of positive
mail you guys have recieved. I work for an ISP in California myself and
have done tech support for quite a while. I thought that my spirit had
been completely crushed by the hoards of complete and total
morons/people who i wish would stay with AOL, that call every five
seconds. Even as I am writing this email another tech guy here is
pounding his head into the table and contimplating suicide speaking to
one of these lemmings that refuse to think for themselves and actually
*gasp at the thought* LEARN. To see a company with the right attitude
towards the internet is refreshing. It is my hope that someday, somehow,
more ISPs will have the same view as you do towards customers. People
say that they should be treated as Adults. But yet they want their hands
held becuase of the big bad scary internet.Your no questions asked just
F'in do it attitude is every techies wet dream. You are visionaries...
prophets... You are the unmerciful and truth filled GODS of what I hope
all ISP's will become. I commend you and bow before your enlightened
ways! Ohh wait my phone is ringing... another former AOL'ite that cant
figure out how to get his porn mail, I think ill just let it ring. Ahh
the bliss, I feel as though I am in heaven already.
Thank you
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 12:25:08 -0-500
From: james
To: del
Subject: When you were offline...(via HumanClick)
I wish I had an ISP like your's over here.
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 11:37:42 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Congrats
(please pass this on to management and/or owners)
As the owner of an ISP, I'd like to congratulate you guys on
your no support business model. Obviously its not for everybody,
but in running a very customer service oriented ISP myself, I
have on many occasions dreamt of operating a service like yours.
Regards,
Charles
-------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 04:21:44 +1300
From: Robin
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Great....Now move to NZ
This idea is great, and is something that is desperately needed in New
Zealand. Please consider moving :) The nearest is free internet with
pay-for tech support, and very bad networks.
Please become an international phenomenon!
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 09:23:30 -0600
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Your Sign-Up warning page.
It kicks a lot of ass.
I don't need your services, but just wanted to let you know that I'll recommend you to
any of my friends who do.
Very refreshing.
Lux
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 08:14:29 -0700 (PDT)
From: Jag Man
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: web site.
I visited your web site's signup page after reading about it on
www.fuckedcompany.com.
You guys have 'nads the size of bowling-balls! About time an ISP grew a set
and started telling these fucking morons who buy their computers at KMart
and then can't figure out how to use their internet connection to go to
hell.
I just wish you guys were in my area...
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 08:07:40 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com, del@flex.com
Subject: Message for Del
Hey Del,
Congratulations, you made the boards at
http://www.fuckedcompany.com/ubb/Forum1/HTML/005925.html and at
http://www.hardocp.com/
Remember Me? Hawaiian-Index.com or Three Shields Hawaii? I'm in Silicon
Valley now, thinking of and thanking my first ISP - Flexnet.
Aloha
Daniel Curran
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 09:58:19 -0500
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Your site is rude and not customer friendly! Before you speak of everyone in general terms,
you may want to consider your target groups.
Cameen Matthewson
Desktop Applications Support
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 15:49:08 +0100
To: "'del@flex.com'"
Subject: Hiring ?
Saw your site, love the approach, if there were more honest folk around.
Bottom line is, are you hiring ? I've been a unix sys-admin for 8 years
specialising in Internet services and servers for the last 5 and I've worked
for a few ISPs before.
Like I say, like your attitude (especially to your rivals, "ruining the
market" perleeze).
JJ
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 15:42:01 -0700
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: Sweet
I love your introduction to your service. I wish you were located in Las
Vegas, NV right now. I am one of those experienced users who just plain
wants fast internet access, no support required. I'm getting sick of these
stupid ISPs with slow access (to nonexistent, I might add).
Just wanted you to know I thought your intro was pretty sweet.
Brian
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 10:21:03 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Oh YES!!!
Damn I wish I lived in Hawaii just so I could use you all!! Awesome concept!
Thanks,
Ron White
Director of Technology
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 10:05:54 -0400
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: Web Page
But isn't AOL and the internet synonymous?
Nice page ;-)
Wish I could say the same kinds of things to some of our customers.
-Mark Kayser
CMS Tech Support
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 06:37:29 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Awesome!
I love your sign_up page on your website!
I'm stuck here, with the newbies!
Patsy
Technical Support Representative
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 08:43:29 -0500
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: Good Job
I love your work ethic. I love the AOL jabs. I work for a computer company
in Houston, Tx, and I know what kind of shit stupid users come up with. I
just with you had a branch in Houston, I'd definately send you customers!
Steve
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 06:10:48 -0700
From: - j o s e f
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: no need to reply
After spening the day dealing with turkey-necked old people with new computers, I was
just about ready to jump out my window; They call my house, come over to my hotel
room, and ask me which 'Dummie' book to buy. I tell them over and over. They interupt
me. They hack and spit and cough and think I'm a nice boy.
I am not a 'nice' boy. I am a frustrated, fed up Inca Warrior of the Internet. Who
was near suicide 'till he read your page.
Thank you. You rock.
-josef
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 09:05:29 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: your site
Hi There:
At first I thought you were being pricks with your declaration berating dumb users.
After looking at your hints page though, I've changed my mind. Any user that can't set
up an account with the clear instructions you provide, is more trouble than they're
worth. I'm a self employed programmer, and I've had a few clients that took up all my
time with stupid questions. Not a way to make a living.
well done on your business modal, and I wish you every success,
Gilles
-------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 07:10:53 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: attracting new customers
Yo!
I stumbled onto your site http://www.flex.com/sign_up/ read the
page and I laughed my ass off. That is great. I applaud your frankness
and attitude. I have been in business for over 16 years and I swear
everyday I think about saying something like this to a customer.
All I can say is that if I were in Hawaii instead of Missouri I
would be signing up with you guys.
Way to go!
--
-----------
Kit Lindsay
Lindsay Transmission
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 23:37:24 -1000
To: Webmaster@flex.com
Subject: You Rule Man!
Reading your Fan mail, Just had and wanted to congratulate you on a great job you have
done! Created a empire of super Users.. Im ashamed to say that at one time i was a
Lava Net user but im glad i came across you when i was searching for a Provider for my
DSL. =) Lava net was about to rape me for the same service you were offering. And i
have to say the Netstatus Link on your Main Page, is the great idea.. i check it
everyday to see How you are keeping UP.. :) Even with the t problems you did Have with
GST and Verizon as far as outages and what not, i cant really complain since it has
been working Flawlessly on my side..
Thanks Dude
Your friend
Flex Net user
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 23:49:51 -0500
From: RAT
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: ...c'mon, hire me...`
...i'll be your BOFH...man what a kick in that ass that would be, i'll
stock up on frappachino and be ready to work in the morning..
pay??? screw it, i'll do it for free, just lemme keep my hampsters,
don't touch the hampsters...
...refer to reason 5 on why i should join...you guys rock...
...so is Hawaii far from south texas?
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 23:35:35 -0500
From: Jobey
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Good job!
Someone told me to take a look at your website and see your sign up restrictions, and I
have to applaud you! LOL You are definately the type of company that we need more
of.......screw those AOL-handholding-whining-POS.
Good job!
Jobey
Houston, TX
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 20:22:43 -0700
From: Jerry
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Flex.com
I don't know if what I just read was a joke or for real regarding tech
support and such. If it is a joke, it's funny as hell. If it's the
truth then god bless all of you! Having been working on computers since
I was 14 and having to support people who get computers "for the sole
purpose of doing online banking" and then get quicken money or aol to do
this stuff with out having ever turned one on. I really hope you take
this as a serious compliment and aren't annoyed by the fact I'm emailing
you. it was just too cool to not compliment.
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 22:00:31 -0500
From: Michael
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Yo from Kansas
i have only one thing to say about your idea and service
ROCK ON !!!!!!
i hope you guys get filthy rich.
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 21:36:05 -0500
From: Grady
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: WOW!
You guys are incredible. I have so much respect for a provider like yours.
I would sign up in a heartbeat if I were in your area, hell, I' almost feel
like signing up living in Minnesota. Seriously though. Great idea, I work
tech support, or is it tech babysitting and I know the pain it can be.
Thanks for a great laugh.
-GP
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 21:04:42 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Good job!
I'm over in the middle of Illinois, but I had to read this(thanks to
[H]ardOCP.
I simply want to congratulate you for your webpage...I know first hand how
aggrevating it can be to work with newbies, or worse yet, completely
computer illiterate people.
Your signup page is a great joke(even though it is meant in all
seriousness), and it's about damned time a service provider stopped wasting
time working with (insert unkind name for PCidiots here).
If I were in Hawaii, I would definitely sign up(if I couldn't get DSL or
near equivalent) with you guys, simply because it would seem you'd have my
caliber of user in mind.
Kudos to you!
Brandon
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 19:11:18 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: woooooooeeeeeeee, them's fightin words
Dear Mams and Sirs,
I seen this here web page of yourn posted on one a them newsgroup thingies and thought I'd
stop by to have myself a look. Sure 'nuff, there's all this hooten and tooten about how
bad AOL is and such, and I just thought I'd put in my 2-cents worth in proclaimin' my
dissatisfaction about it.
Down here in Winkleman County, Arizona, we gots ISPs, and then we got AOL. The ISPs
around here is run by a bunch a UNIX freaks hollerin outta the back a their shiny new
trucks all the time about how crappy Radius is (whatever that is), and spray paintin'
little red devils on the sides of barns while smokin loads of pot. Hoodlums! AOL, on the
other hand, is run by the kind of pasty white milquetoast businessmen who done made
America the nation it is today. Why just the other week I was talkin to my good friend
Marvin, up in Glob, AZ about this very thing, and he said he don't want no pot smokin kids
running his ISP either, especially when he can help out them poor folks at time-warner try
an run this internet craze, so respectable people can use all them silly buddy chats and
that user-friendly, proprie-tary email setup they's got. Like me, he fancies that "you
got mail" notification. It's like your computer's talkin to ya and bein friendly, even
though it ain't too vociferous, or friendly, regardin anythin else!
The only bad thing I have to say 'bout AOL is they doesn't have one of them there
distributions for my freeBSD box. I know them programmers worked real hard to make a real
petty UI and fancy her up a bit with some a them nice spamming marketing setups AOL's got,
but they need to focus on us poor folk out here who are just plumb outta touch with such
fine operatin systems like Windows 98.
But gettin back to your lambasting poor AOL and the stupid people out there, like me,
using the inter-net who should be tattin doilies instead, I gots to say this: Shame on you
for tryin to take away our God given right to convenience, ease, and im-mediate
gratification in this, our rampant tech-no-indutrialized, consumer driven e-conomy. Why,
you is all just plain unAmerican in your belief that people should have all the skills
necessary to competently complete a job or hell, even operate a computer. For a small
example, my wife Maude likes to drive, but she sometimes doesn't do so well at figurin'
out what peddle does what or which signal to use and when. She'll come home with car half
wrecked an then call the DMV to get her daily dose a technical support. Sometimes she
even calls Ford if their ain't no one answerin at the DMV. Them fine folks gives her all
the help she needs so she can keep running over cats and rollin the car in the ditch. Now
with this new paradigmatic enterprise you got yerselves into, you're a changin all that.
And frankly, I'm a bit worried to think of my Maude without that support she gets regardin
her sometimes less than healthy drivin practices.
Finally, I done seen them peoples emails about you that says stuff in a rather negative
fashion, and I got to say I agree 100%! People shouldn't have to learn to drive when they
got the DMV, any more than they should learn to setup their computer on the net. Just
like them pot smokin' sys admins out here, you guys seem to be on the same page about your
blatantly anti-American policies.
Like I said, as soon as they get AOL for freeBSD, I'm joinin' the fray and gettin the ease
and relaxation I always wanted from an honest to goodness ISP.
Truly yourn,
Reginald Heeme III, Winkleman County Fire Chief and President, Advanced Institute for the
Study of Computational Linguistics and Wittgensteinian Syntactic Structures in Post-Modern
Psychiatric Memetic Interpretations
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 19:27:57 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Fuck yeah!
It's about time someone said it like it is. I tell you one thing....If I
ever get to hawaii I am gonna get service with you guys. I'm stuck with US
mess (us west) or a cable company.....all which slice your bandwidth and
overcharge. Tech support doesn't know what and IP address is but I have to
pay the check for the fatass that sits there all day supposedly helping
someone. Keep the buisness model guys. Techies are gonna take over and you
will be the type of companies we'll turn to.
-Patrick.
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 17:09:04 -0700
From: Dan Knox
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: Good Job
I think your sign up page is great.
Keep up the good work.
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 19:30:04 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: I love it..
To Whom It May Concern:
I do tech support for a major game company, and what you have said on
your page WRT AOL and their customers is both spot-on and refreshing to
see.
Oh, the times I've had to hammer it through someone's head
that the reason they can't get into an online game due to
AOL's not quite standard Internet connection methodology..
Of course, the support request was all-caps, with no punctuation, and
spelling that would cause you to flunk day-care..
Keep up the good work! If I lived in your service area, I would have
expressed my support the best way: by signing up.
-Don R. Swanner, Jr.
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 16:24:40 -0700 (PDT)
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Nice tech support page!!!
Hello,
I just wanted to commend you tech support page. I am
looking for work right now and ran across your site. I
currently live in LA but I have no problem relocating
at the drop of a hat if the opportunity is right, and
I'm not into doing customer support.
Please review my resume. I know this is a stretch but
I'm 24 and am looking to spend time in Hawaii to
infiltrate the people there with my music. (I DJ, and
write psy-trance.)
-Michael Lazar
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 19:15:11 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: lololol
Flex,
Finally an ISP for the "rest" of us, im all about what you guy doing,
but unfortunatly I don't live in Hawaii. Good luck!
Stephen
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 12:15:13 -1000 (HST)
To: webmaster@flex.com
You guys are my goddamn heros. I work tech support for several ISP's at the
moment and think your site is great. A milestone in internet connectivity. If
I lived in Hawaii I would definately have your service. Thanx from all the
guys here at the call center.
Cap Hayes
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 15:54:12 -0700
From: Christophe Meiffren
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Thank god!
There are people like you out there!
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 13:50:40 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Chuckle...
Just read your notice to AOL users, cracked me up. You sound like my
kind of ISP, to bad I'm not in Hawaii.
Steve Pehrson
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 13:19:46 -0700 (PDT)
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: You Rule!
Hi,
I'm not a customer, or even a prosepctive one, as I live in California,
but I just wanted to let you know that you guys(?) are my heros!
I've worked in the ISP business for over 4 years, been with a company that
went from 800 users to over 150,000 before being bought out. And, that
whole time, we were always sweating it cause we had to try to be
everything to all customers.
I always believed that an ISP could do it better by just supporting a
small, intelligent subset of users, and it sounds like you are.
So, I just wanted to express my pleasure at your attitude and exsistence!
Keep it up!
-Andy
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 15:12:20 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Need a hand?
Boy, I'd love to answer some tech support emails for you! It would give
me
a chance to use some of the phrases I can't use at work, like, "The reason
that you have to ask me why you can't reach "dumbfuck.pointless.com" after
getting the error "Netscape has performed an illegal operation and will be
shutdown" is because you are a knuckle-dragging, mouth-breathing,
slope-headed drooling cretin of an oxygen-waster who is lucky not to jam
your spoon up your nose at lunch because you forgot which hole to food
goes
into again, who should never, EVER be allowed to touch anything that does
more than hold open a door until you master at least pre-school
$PRIMARY_LANGUAGE."
I could guarantee a 336 hour response time as well. For a very reasonable
sum.
Your support sounds like the speech of a captured G.I., "Name, rank and
serial number."
FlexNet, "Username, password and Phone Number."
Beautiful.
--
Seth Ramsey
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 15:08:58 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Great Concept
Hello --
I'm based in Austin, Tx. Your site means nothing to me.. but I wanted to
comment on it. You have the RIGHT attitude! It would be GREAT if we
could
throw some more ISP's around the US that force people to 'learn'!
Congradulations on your success!
Benjamin
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 15:12:11 -0400 (EDT)
From: Tyler
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Oh hell yeah!
You've got to be the coolest ISP in existence. I'm in love.
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 15:18:46 -0-500
From: Jaedreth
To: del
Subject: When you were offline...(via HumanClick)
I LOVE This ISP! I have been using and fixing Macs for 10 years, and the #1
complaint I hear is "My ISP doesn't support Macintosh!"
To them I say, "Bullshit!!!" Just give me the f*cking Dialup username, password,
phone number, and the Name Server Addresses, and the Search Domain, and unless
you're using proprietary skankware, any ISP should be able to be used by
Macintosh. F*ck the setup assistant! Just use the control panels. It's easy.
It's not like having to recompile the kernel on AU/X to define a static IP. Just
give me the numbers!
I wish you guys were nation-wide. I know tons of Mac users who would love this
ISP! And remember: There are more PC AOL users than Mac AOL users. Not all Mac
users have the AOL mentality. Many of them actually know how to *use* their
computers. What a concept! :)
I do tech support for Macs, so I know how this sh*t goes. Rock on! So far, this
is the most Mac friendly ISP I've seen. BECAUSE you offer no tech support, we
don't get the "We don't support your OS" BS. Thank you. Come to Texas, please...
:)
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 13:47:19 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: cool idea!
I saw you guys in an article in Network World. I'm currently paying...
well, a *lot* more... to have my domain name hosted. I read over your
site thought real hard about whether I'd ever bothered to call the "tech
support" for the higher priced service I'm using now... and I haven't.
I'll be moving my domain name your way ASAP.
Tim Petlock
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 14:30:09 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: YES YES YES!
I love your site, I love your attitude, I ought to move to Hawaii
just so I can give you guys my money! :)
--
Matthew Landry O-
LEL Network Services
Anti-Stupid Talisman
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 11:26:17 -0500
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
LOVE your business model! I would be overjoyed to forgo questionable
support for a reduction in my access fees. Keep up the good work and the
blunt web pages.
Paul Young
User Support Analyst
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 11:58:39 -0400
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: Kudo's from another ISP
You rock!
We started out in 1994, dealing with only the Internet-savvy, because back
then, that's all there were. We've watched our client intelligence
decrease and our support costs increase. I only wish our management had
the kind of sack that you guys have to tell these people who are sucking
the life out of our company that using an ISP is serious business and not a
game to be played by children.
I swear the next time I have to explain how to use FTP to a 'professional
web designer' I'm going to scream. They really think that picking up a
copy of Front Page qualfies them as webmasters. it's not rocket science,
but it's not flipping burgers, either. Take a course, get some for dummies
books. Don't expect your service provider to spoon-feed you!!!
The, "I just got a new computer and I need you to talk me step-by-step
through setting up my Internet connection and mail client gets me, too'.
They don't realize that they should be using Help, or calling the damn
company that made the software, not us. Or they could read the bound
manuals that we send every new client.
Thank you for having the courage to be honest on your site. Perhaps you
will be the beginning of a new movement to take the Internet back from the
clueless-that's what AOL is for. Using a real ISP, and having a web site is
not for dummies who will not learn how. I taught myself, and so did
everyone else at my company.
Thanks again.
Laura
Boston, MA
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 08:48:54 -0700
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: California ISP
Wow nice site a fresh change from the Babysitter ISPs we have here in
SanFrancisco and SanJose you should branch out this way
with the same message "No Newbies".
Good Luck!
Chris Callaghan
Sr. Systems Engineer
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 08:25:26 -0700
From: erik
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: well done
You guys are tops-- I was so waiting for someone to fart-off AOL
dumb-dumbs, and offer a service like this. But, I'm not in Hawaii-- do
you have an affiliate with similar policies in Seattle for a local ISP
connection for me?
Thanks, and great job.
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 10:37:48 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Flexnet.
You web site was recently reference in a very positive light on
alt.sysadmin.recovery, so I wandered by to take a look.
Should you ever aquire a dialup number in Roanoke, VA please drop me a
line, I'd beat a path to your door to sign up.
I've had at least 8 ISPs in the last two years alone, most of which were
dropped because when I'd call to report a network outage the "tech
support" would insist on "checking my settings" for an hour before
actually *trying* anything on their end, at which point they would
discover that there was a network outage.
Robin
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 09:34:07 -0400
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Found your website through cruel.com and think that your business model
is great! If I lived in Hawaii, I would buy two accounts.
Brian A. Bassett
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 09:41:30 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: your AOL disclaimer
you know, if only half the ISPs in the world had that policy, we'd have only
half the idiots on the net.
many thanks,
denonymous
------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 09:28:35 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: YOU!.....
i just read through a few if your web pages and your "Letter From a
Disgruntled Customer." and i think you people could be ...........
the greatest fuckin ISP on the planet. i have been reading my daily mantra
written back to me throughout your pages. thanks, your pages made my day!
it's good to know you exist.
mc nhvewdk
(cincinnati OH) <---in case your wondering
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 06:32:32 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Kudos
Congratulations for having the "balls" to call it as you see it. AOL is as
ridiculous as the people that swear by it. I hope your business grows and
is very successful.
--
Kenneth Weiss
-------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 22:23:47 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: cool
Hey, I just wanted to say that your sign-up page is awsome. Too bad I don't
live in Hawaii else I'd get on your service. Saw a linnk to your page from
overclockers.com
Donald Plummer
http://www.omnicast.net/plummer
-------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 18:25:47 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Bless your unyeilding hearts!!!!!
I, for one, agree with you! I think computer purchasers should have to take
a 150 question randomly generated from a base of 1000 computer oriented
questions, test. And then get a tattoo attesting to the fact that they
passed, and if they call for any kind of tech support for something simple,
the computer is confiscated and the tatoo is burned off with a torch. Okay,
maybe not remove the tattoo with a torch, but definitely have the computer
confiscated. And then they'd have to get a second tattoo when the computer
is confiscated, maybe a red slashed circle through the first. And when they
want to try again they have to pass a 500 question test...
And they'd be simple questions like "How does DOS assign drive letters on
computers with three physical hard drives that have three partitions (one
primary and two logical inside the extended partiton) on each?" or "What
does each group of numbers in the IP address indicate and provide an
example?"
If I should ever move to Hawaii and be seeking a job in the computer/ISP
world, I'd be honored to be rejected by your company as I'd be thrilled to
just apply.
Geeze, you've restored my faith in humanity!!!! Now all we need to do is
show the world that the DOJ are just lapdogs of Sun, Oracle and the rest,
and maybe my stock in Microsoft will go back up. And yes, I believe in
Microsoft and what they're doing, after all, someone has to try to make
computers easy to use for the AOL idiots!
Keep up the good work!!!!!
Mike Poz
-------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 21:19:41 -0-500
To: del
Subject: When you were offline...(via HumanClick)
I gotta find an ISP like yours in Silicon Valley. You'd think with all the
tech bullshit going around here, you'd be able to find an intelligent group of
people willing to setup net access for those of us with brains. You guys
fuckin' rock. If you ever decide to get off that little island, I'll sign up
with you.
Tucker
-------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 20:36:32 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: http://www.flex.com/sign_up
Dear Flex
I have just read your http://www.flex.com/sign_up page, I have much
respect for your company and wish you the best of success. God Bless You
guys!!!!! ;)
Brian Booher
-------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 10:23:24 +1000
To: "'del@flex.com'"
Subject: flex.net
Greetings,
i bet you get a lot of these but anyhow, your cool man, your website flew
around our office this morning and everyone is just walking around drooling
and mumbling about how flex.net is how it should be ;)
keep up the slick work man
Peter Patterson
-------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 19:08:41 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: I LOVE YOU
I love you. you are gods. I want to fly to Hawaii just to kiss yr sweet
faces. NO tech support-- must know what yr doing .....So SO SO SO sweet.
Open a branch here (texas)and I will sign up. I will work for you. I
don't care yr so great hugs
Sincerely,
Kristin Wieler
-------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 17:50:09 -0600
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: yes! yes! yes!
Tell it like it is! Finally a breath of fresh air. God but I hate the
computer illiterate!
Sincerely;
One of those who get calls from "friends" everytime thier computer burps;
Erik de Vries
-------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 16:38:51 -0700
To: del@flex.com
Subject: Interesting concept
I just got your link off a forum. I must say that it sounds like you've
got good niche market there. It would be great to tell it like it is,
put up with only what you want to put up with, and only deal with the
people you want to deal with. hmm.... sorely tempting some days.. . ..
. sorely tempting. . . .
Good luck!
Jake Tenney
DSL Coordinator
-------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 19:27:51 -0400
From: Leonardo Castro
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: http://www.flex.com/sign_up/ Comment
Absolutely perfect.
Hope to see more ISPs catering to the "technologically gifted" and less to
idiots...
That page made my day, even though its monday.
Keep up the good work.
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 22:17:28 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Tech Support!?!
I absolutely LOVE your support explaination. Too few people have the balls
to tell it like you do. Good Form!
Joseph A. Falejczyk
CSS-Technologies.com
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 23:19:45 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Your Site
I work for an ISP that does offer support. Your site contains everything
that I dream of telling my ignorant customers in a few pages of glorious
web pages. Hats off to you ! Keep it up.
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 23:37:14 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: impressed
you probably get emails like this every day, but THANK YOU for what you
are doing!
when i eventually move to hawaii, ill be giving you a call...
Ragards
John Kranick
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 21:09:10 -0600
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Masters!
You are my heroes! I have never felt so good about the inhumane
thoughts I have had for my idiot users at my job. After providing
support for 4 years, this is very refreshing. The day to day trials
and tribulations of having to deal with people asking me why aol
and their RAS is not working makes me want to quit my job and start
up my own ISP with your philosophy.
Keep up the good work!
----------------------
++++entropynow.org++++
----------------------
--And I shall strike down the aol user like the rabid beast that
killed my family...
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 22:36:27 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: (no subject)
I work for aol. You guys are so completely correct. I once got a call
from a guy who couldn't connect. He'd forgotten to plug the phone wire
into the modem....
then there was the lady who wanted to speak to my supervisor's
superviser because she couldn't find anyone to troubleshoot her Instant
Messenger...
I could go on for hours...
and you didn't hear this from me
----------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 11:18:20 +0900
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
That is f@#$ing awesome. Score one for Sys Admin!!!
grrrrr,
robert
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 17:38:12 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Brilliant
You guys are my new heros. I work for an ISP in Minnesota, and would love
to point people to your site when they complain about our service. I have
never seen anything so beautiful.
Peace
Michael Vanderborght
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 16:05:26 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: You guys ROCK!
I used to work for MindSpring/EarthLink Technical Support a while ago
(before I got a REAL job). If I got a nickel for every time I wanted to
say what you guys said, I'd be a multi-millionaire!!
Rock on,
-Aaron
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 17:43:38 -0500
From: boxcarwilly
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: access numbers
do you have a local number in sherman texas if so count me in
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 16:59:13 -0500
From: EFW Web Creator
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: The computing world needs MORE people like you!
This is obviously directed at Mr. Wong...
I came across the sign-up page for FlexNet by accident. Intrigued by your
opening sentence, I read the whole thing.
If I were in Hawaii (as compared to Florida) I'd have signed up just from
that intro! It was like a rallying cry for the Internet-savvy throughout
the world, and it's nice to know that there are ISPs that are willing to
give you only what you need and let you do your own thing without all the
hand-holding. Not to mention ISPs that by design reduce bandwidth wasted by
the clueless. ;-)
On a personal note, I'm an ex Tech Support rep (did the TS BS for a major
ISP in Miami, FL). I'm a shareware author with Fortune 500 customers, a
webmaster with an international client base, and I provide consulting
services to multinational firms - all out of my house. Hell, I even provide
occasional TS help for one local ISP as I have extensive knowledge of all
32-bit Windows releases - 95, 98, ME, NT, and 2000 in all their flavors -
and they lack the TS for Windows NT. (They give me a free dialup account
and unlimited web space, so everyone's happy. ) So I've got expertise on
dealing with clueless (l)users.
I have no problem with newbies - we were ALL green once - but I have a
problem with newbies that REMAIN newbies. Never really learning or
improving their understanding. (I believe we would both call them AOL
users. ) Having an ISP that caters to the crowd that is the opposite
would be refreshing to the extreme.
If you ever open up shop on the mainland I wanna know!
Tom Honaker
Owner, WebMaster, Lead Programmer, Chief Bottle Washer
EFW
Additional:
Apparently the techies throughout the world share my sentiments. There are
definitely too many people that try to fly without knowing how to crawl
first - when I was a TS rep I had to help set one woman up who had no clue
how to minimize a window. She didn't even know it was POSSIBLE! I mean,
damn, people, learn how to use your own ing computer and THEN go play on the Internet.
At any rate, rock on with ya bad selves!
T.
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 14:50:46 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: love it love it love it!
oh yes!
I found your site by way of www.cruel.com and I just have to say that if
I was in your area, I would be a happy FlexNet customer.
The bit about AOL users had me spitting up my lunch.
thanks,
Otis
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 14:56:09 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: tell it like it is.
Dudes,
I just think it is great that you tell your clients that they can like
it or lump it.
There is a burger joint in Seattle called Dick's. At this place they
serve only two types of burgers (one has more meat and cheese) and
fries. There are no special orders, there are no small med or large
sizes. Everything is prefabbed as much as possible (with the exception
of the fries which are cut from WA spuds right before your eyes) and
left under heat lamps. You want ketchup? That is 5" extra (the 5" to
cover the cost of the tiny plastic cup the ketchup comes in). Dick's
have three outlets, one has seating and the other two (built after the
first one) just have big parking lots. You eat your damn food in the car
or leaning against a bumper if you want to hang around.
Dick's does a great business. Mainly working guys and college students.
It is one of my favorite places to eat in Seattle. Dick's is a no
bullshit place to eat. You won't see any clowns, kid boxes or beanie
babies here.
Well, what I am trying to say is that you guys are all Dicks at heart.
Love ya, Mark
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 17:39:59 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Too funny
I'm not a resident of HI, but someone sent me a link to your site. The reason
being is to get some sense of satisfaction and knowing that someone out there
is giving these doinks a dose of reality.
Being an ex-support rep for both Mindspring / Earthlink and Microsoft PSS. I
just have to say THANK YOU!! Reading your pages was the most therapeutic thing
I've ever read.
You're right...you rock.
Erin
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 14:05:04 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: TOS
your terms of service kicks ass...hehe.
KEEP THE IDIOTS OFF THE INTERNET!!!
rock on.
*SICKBOY*
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 15:03:48 -0600
From: jkamis
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: comments about site
Love your sign up page. Wish there was someone like you guys out in Colorado
(or, better yet, I could move to Hawaii!!)
Good luck!
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 13:47:50 -0700
To: del@flex.com
Subject: respect
hey, i just wanted to drop you a line and say that i greatly admire what
youre doing. i know a great deal about linux, programming,routing,
networking, and standard web and end user applications, so im not just a
run of the mill tech, i just wanted to let you know this about me to lend
some credibility to my statement. i know you probably get this alot,
especailly from techs at other isps, but RIGHT-FUCKING-ON, score one for
techs everywhere, score zero for end-losers. ive been a technician for
well over a year now at two ISPs, and as you know thats a mind numbingly
long time to be a tech. anyhow, kudos and kudos again, if you ever have
any tech type of question or need some help with smething, let me know.
sincerely,
frank.c
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 16:38:24 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Y'all are AWESOME
I answer customer service email for 16 subscription sites and I can't
tell you how much I enjoyed reading through your pages. While I have to
appreciate the stupidity of the general public (and particularly the
average AOL user) because I wouldn't have a job without it, I also give
you two big thumbs up for your up front honesty! Offering savings
instead of babysitting is a wonderful idea! When are you coming to New
Jersey??!! I'll be your first customer here!
Trayce
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 16:34:39 -0400
From: Matt
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: MUAHAHA
I just read the AOL comments on your site, thought I would email you,
letting you know that I am a tech here in Connecticut and I understand
the frustration of AOL idiots. Good job putting them down, you are
my hero ;)
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 12:48:03 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: you guys kick ass!
I just have to say you guys kick ass! I work on the tech floor for a major
ISP and you guys rock! I wish I could tell every crayon eating AOL loving
Mac user exactly what you have stated on your signup page! You guys rock!
Sincerly,
Aaron Gonzales
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 14:57:21 -0400
From: Leandro Asnaghi-Nicastro
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: FlexNet
Wow. An ISP with no tech support. I love it.
I'd sign up if I just wasn't so far away.
leandro
Additional Email:
You are seriously getting CON mail? Oh the joys. I've been trying to get
people to send me hate mail but so far no avail.
It's always so amusing to see what putrid little minds can ejaculate
thinking their are the latest in wit and knowledge. Sigh.
Especially those pesky AOL users.
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 15:01:27 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Good job
Hehe, I hope signup page makes it to every idiot that uses AOL.
Good job!
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 14:11:16 -0400
From: nexus
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: COME TO NY !!!!!
haha LOVE THAT sing up page....
If you are currently with America Online, please don't bother to sign up!
You have been warned...
got it from hardocp....
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 13:44:07 -0400 (EDT)
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: NICE!!! Its about time
Thats all I wanted to say...I agree!!! If I lived in the Island state I
would definately be your customer...finally an ISP that understands the
expirenced Internet User(I predate the Web entirely). I own a Hosting
Company in Mass, and thats pretty much our policy too, here is some web
space you better know what to do now.
Bill Dunn
Owner VN Internet Services
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 13:36:04 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: cool
Happened across your sign up page. Funny! Hope things are going well.
Dan Nielsen
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 13:46:16 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Wow
I wish I lived in Hawaii, if only to buy 'net access from you.
Everything you say about AOL and its users is true, true, true. I wish
there were such a company around here.
Respectfully yours,
Peter Zillmann
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 13:41:47 -0400
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: Amen brother!
To all at FlexNet:
Word of your business reached me all the way in Central Florida and I
simply had to write. I am an MCSE and manager of a sizable helpdesk
spanning a 100 user base all over the US. When I visited your site, it
was like reaching the land of dreams! Tech staff with the balls to
basically tell idiot users to waste their time elsewhere? Bravo!
My only question is.... When are you guys opening your Florida branch
office?
Jason Jones, MCP
Information Systems Specialist
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 12:36:07 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: AOL Comments
Being a tech support manager for an ISP, I only WISH I could say those
type of things without getting canned!! Way to go and keep it up!
Tony
----------------------------------------
Del's Note: Is this message a pro or a con? hehehe...
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 12:29:33 -0500
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: Site Improvements
Hello.
To Whom It May Concern:
Recently a friend pointed me in the direction of your site as he was
impressed by your attitude towards internet usage. Your approach is great,
letting people know up-front what they can expect from you and what they
will get (savings) in exchange for limited support services. As a sole
member of a tech support "team", I personally found your site highly
entertaining. However, it seems to me that if you expect people to believe
that the product that they are receiving from you is coming from persons who
are sophisticated and who have a great deal of technical knowledge, it seems
to me that you may want to clean up the grammar found on your web-site. The
wording found on your web-site is confusing and muddled. And, while you
might not want your site to appear pedantic, clarity is always a plus for
any business.
For example, the sentence: "While this may seem hard and cruel to you,
please, PLEASE know that newbies calling for tech support, and if FlexNet
relents and gives such requested tech support, will definitely "broke da
shop" and cause FlexNet to go out of business." makes next to no sense as
written. While one can discern what you are trying to communicate, just
reading through the sentence is an exhausting experience. This can be
changed simply by wording this sentence as "While this may seem hard and
cruel to you, please, PLEASE know that newbies often call for tech support.
Should FlexNet relent and start to give such tech support, it will
definitely "brake da shop" and cause FlexNet to go out of business."
Now, you may be asking "Who is this person who has so much free time that
she is bothering us with the grammar on our web-site?" And, in many ways,
you have the absolute right to ask this question. Normally, I never write
to people about links sent to me via e-mail. Normally, I do not even have
time to look at the links sent to me via e-mail. However, I am very
impressed with your service and I hope that your business (and businesses
like yours) flourish in the new economy. I am merely trying to point out a
small change that could perhaps increase the ease with which one might pass
through your site. Best of luck,
Jacinda
----------------------------------------
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: simple question
Hey,
Other than that, I'd like to say, it sounds like your service is great.
I hate AOL, and I can't stand all the technology that's being put out
there to dumb down internet access even more. So even if I can't use
your service due to lack of script support or database work, I want to
say "thanks for being there and standing up for the experienced users."
Kevin Tipa
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 13:18:13 -0400 (EDT)
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: sign up page
I just got through reading your sign up page,
I work for an ISP in upstate new york, I think that you buisness policies
are very reasonable, I commend you for being so up front and honest. I
think that more companies in all fields (specifically technology related)
should provide services for those who know how to use them at a lower cost
without the babying and hand-holding.
I wish that my ISP had a sign up page like htis one!
john guttridge
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 10:07:56 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Website
This has got to be the greatest ISP website I have ever seen. I laughed so
hard my coworkers thought I had finally gone completely mad. I'm don't live
in Hawaii but if I did I would use your ISP for your homepage alone.
Take care and don't change a thing.
Shane Norcross
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 10:51:12 -0600
To: "'webmaster@flex.com'"
Subject: YOU RULE
I have looked over your website, and all I have to say is you guys are the
BEST, it's almost comicial to read over your website. I used to work for a
small ISP so I know what your talking about. I wish you well and much
success.
Morgan
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 12:48:19 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Awesome marketing idea. If you were in Ohio, I'd switch.
T. Nemec
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 10:31:14 -0500
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Glad to see it said.
Just wanted to let you guys know that coming from someone who has worked
in tech support and had to deal with the general populace of morons on a
day in and day out basis, included some folks who dared call themselves
consultants, your opinions on support are most definitely the right way
to go. Hell I personally still believe tests should be administered
before people are able to buy a computer and learning permits given so
that the internet incompetents can only operate a computer with a
licensed computer savvy individual around. Just one man's opinion. At
any rate, very cool stuff... Keep up the great work and I wish the best
in success for your ISP.
James Anders
Yet another disgruntled, underpaid, under appreciated tech.
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 08:02:36 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Comments
What a refreshing approach in marketing. My hats off to you and I wish you
the best of luck. If I lived in your market I would sign up in a New York
Min.
J. Devereaux
Seattle Wa.
----------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 07:34:50 -0700
From: Zoel
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: love the site
I gotta say this is the funniest shit I've ever read. I know you are quite
serious, its just that I'm a tech, and I can agree whole heartedly on what
you guys talk about with clueless users.
by the way, you dont have the best rates in the us, damned close though.
Pacbell is only charging 39.99 total for residintial dsl now, and I've heard
of some of the smaller guys in the area getting as low as 25.99 for a pppoe
384/128 connection. (this is southern california though)
Thanks agian for having the balls to offer a service like this.
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Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 08:18:03 -0500
From: "Monk :>)"
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Oh Yeah
Just a few words to say... BRAVO
and could I NOW get some tech support..... hahahahahahahaha
bad joke I know
A friend sent me to your site..... hosting with attititude..... awesome
I have worked with way toooooooo many people who SHOULD NEVER HAVE A
COMPUTER by themselves hahahahahahahahahahahahaha
What an awesome time to be alive...
All the best in all things,
Bill
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Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 08:55:47 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
I banged my head on a desk working tech support for an ISP in New York
for a year and a half and you're policy is a breath of fresh air!
Rob
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Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 08:02:33 -0500
From: sally
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: what a refreshing attitude!
I wish I lived in hawaii so I could take advantage of your services.
keep up the good work, and don't let anyone guilt you into changing.
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Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 08:26:12 EDT
From: xxxx@aol.com
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Comment ....
LOL
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Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 06:49:38 -0500 (CDT)
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: you guys rule ;-)
Grabbed your link off http://www.hardocp.com with a quote about aohell
users. Too bad I don't live in Hawaii or Id sign up, you guys have a
great idea and I wish you the best of luck.
Regards,
Kevin
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Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 07:26:19 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: PREACH ON !!
As a Internet tech myself, I totally agree with you !!! Have a Great
Day!
Byron Scarbrough
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Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 07:03:32 GMT
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Thumbs up on the no tech support thing
Hey there,
I just want to give you a big thumbs up on not wanting to sign up non-savvy
aol users that don't know how to use their own computers. Your site was a
subject on hardocp.com's web page, I agree that people should take the time
to learn how to use their computers instead of being lazy and expecting it
to be so easy. Hey if I lived anywhere near Hawaii I'd sign up with you
guys. Keep it up.
DL
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One tough ISP - posted October 15, 10:24 PM EDT by John
(http://www.speedguide.net/index.shtml)
This ISP is fighting back at America Online- I think it is very amusing!
Notice to current America Online Users
If you are currently with America Online, please don't bother to sign up! You have
been warned...
This advice will save both you and us needless frustration. We are incompatible with
your computer system as screwed-up by AOL configuration software and You. In fact, a
lawsuit is in the works against AOL. So be warned, NO REFUNDS or CREDITS will be
given.
As a general rule, American Online users are not computer savvy or it seems, capable
of the level of technical sophistication necessary to operate a computer outside of an
AOL environment.
hahaha!
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Date: Sun, 15 Oct 2000 21:54:24 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: your ad on your web site...
YES!!!!! this is an outstanding ad........
I work for a major ISP, that shall remain nameless......
I wish we could put up something like this, but............
wow! it would save us SO many headaches...
we get questioned all the time about..." how come I never had this problem with
aolllll........?" (said in a whiny voice....)
or... tech: 'what email program do you have?"
user: uh.....how should I know? earthlink?"
anyway,,, thought you'd like to know we got a real kick out of this..... thanks for
(hopefully), starting a trend. Late. TLM.
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Date: Sun, 15 Oct 2000 21:48:22 -0700
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: Signing up
I read your advertisement through a link off of www.speedguide.net ....
I have to say that you guys are a breath of fresh air in terms of truth in
advertising. While I will never signup for your service (I'm in Canada and on @Home)
you guys have my respect as a business that is upfront and doesn't bullshit its
customers.
Vio
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Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 00:01:00 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
I love it. Say it like it is. ROFLOL Hey they aoler's don't have it made
everything I installed lately had special instruction for those on aol.
hehe
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Date: Sun, 15 Oct 2000 23:53:59 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
you are AWESOME!!!!!!!!!! if i ever move to hawaii you
will be the ONLY people i call for an isp! i work in
computer retail (gateway country store 3 more working
days left) as a tech. i completely understand where you
are coming from. stay out of trees guys.
Steve Yaw II
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Date: Sun, 15 Oct 2000 23:04:00 -0400
To: webmaster@flex.com
Subject: regarding your policies. . .
Hey.
I'm Seth Porter, a Michigan resident who just recently stumbled on your site.
I have to say, personally, that I find your views regarding customers to be the best views
an Internet Service Provider has EVER offered. As a technically proficient person, I despise
paying extra for those silly newbie things I never use; I want a plain simple dial up
networking (or DSL, when it becomes available) that I can configure for optimum performance
for what I use it for, without that stupid bandwidth hogging crap that other--cough, aol,
cough--companies force you to install.
I wish that you or another company would offer similar service in my area, because you can
be damned sure I'll be the first to sign up.
Furthermore, I can guarantee that there is a high and steadily increasing demand for a no
frills high performance low cost internet solution. So, if you decide to go national, I know
you'll do well.
Keep up the great work!
--Seth Porter
Kalamazoo, MI