Here's my dilemma. On the one hand I hear calls for greater operational input to ARIN. On the other hand is empirical evidence that there isn't much input being given.
Correct... Generally, you hear those calls coming from ARIN because ARIN is trying to maximize the involvement of its constituency. This is a good thing, but, should not create the illusion that there is not already significant involvement. This is sort of one of those "We can always do better" kind of issues, and, I think that active solicitation is better than the alternatives.
What I have been trying to do extract what latent operational input might be fed to ARIN, judging from discussions I have seen at other RIRs, the IETF, etc. If there aren't follow ups to these ideas, then I would conclude that ARIN isn't dysfunctional and is operating as it should be, an idea supported by what is above. If there are ideas forthcoming, then maybe there is a need to encourage participation.
Got it. Yes, I think that there needs to be encouragement for ideas to be forthcoming whether such ideas exist or not. I think ARIN is doing a pretty good job of providing that encouragement.
This thread was ignited by the desire to have a pingable address in newly allocated blocks (from IANA to ARIN), and maybe Randy's suggestion is all that is needed - simply asking ARIN to do this. Maybe policies aren't the only way to influence ARIN's operation.
Right... So, things divide into two categories... Major Undertakings and changes to existing policy... Requires policy process. Easily implemented obvious wins for everyone (a pingable address within a new block would be an example here) where the first step should be a polite "Hey ARIN Staff, can this be done?" If the staff says "Sure...Easy... look for an announcement soon.", then my experience has been they tend to get implemented fairly quickly (I believe this is what I just saw from Leslie a couple of minutes ago on this very issue). If the staff says no, they generally provide reasons and suggestions. In this case, either the policy process or an alternative solution is probably in order. With a minimal reading of the policy manual and some thought, I think it's fairly easy to sort out which type of request fits in which category. If in doubt, ask the staff first, they'll be happy to tell you whether it requires policy or can be done at the staff level. Owen