DM Confidentiality

We CDMs, ACDMs, and DMs operate under a Code of Confidentiality. There are indeed times when we have to talk about a player. Either they are not posting, are angry and saying inappropriate things, disrespecting their DM, etc. When these things happen, we have to talk about them.

This is no different than a team of coaches discussing why their star quarterback is not performing well in the 4th quarter [hate Romo.] It also includes discussing tendencies of players, etc. We do this to provide the best games for our players and to keep the health of the site secure.

When we do talk about people and situations, it is considered to be confidential. If anyone breaks a confidence, they may be told to step down as DM. I could ban them from the site if that was warranted. I will sometimes, when it occurs to me, say "this is confidential" in an email or perhaps on this board. This is a reminder of this confidentiality clause.

Anything said in privacy on the DM Board is included in this. That said, as you know, we do our level best to back you, the DM up.

There is one other situation that is related to this. At times, we'll be discussing changes on this board. Let's say that we're looking at instituting a revised hero point system. We have a heated discussion on this board and all but two DMs are for the change. [No we're not changing anything at this time.] A consensus is not reached, but the decision is made to go with the majority view.

At this point in time, all DMs are expected to support the decision. You support us just like we support them. We will, of course, give everyone a chance to sound off, debate, and even state opposition to any major decisions discussed here. But once the decision is made, support us.

We have had DMs that, after a decision has been made and they had the chance to voice their opinion here on the DMboard/email, go on the LnB, airing their grievances there in that more public venue. This has not happened for some time. Years? This is a "fine/delicate" thing. We debate on the LnB all the time and even more on the Rules Board. Just keep in mind that we support each other. If I ever feel that you are out of line, I'll double check my feelings with the ACDMs. If they agree, I will contact you to discuss it. The last time I remember this being an issue was when we decided to switch to Pathfinder.

This happens in my job as a teacher all the time. We may argue vehemently about what is best for a student or for the school as a whole, but when the decision is made, we must support it--present a united front. It is part of the job. I can still walk into the principal's office and state how I respectfully disagree with the decision, but I wouldn't ever mention this disagreement with a parent or student.

- Jerry