One issue that's arisen from time to time is the case where the user's only internet portal is through an "internet cafe" type of arrangement wherein he really needs realtime access. I think this leads much of the annoying synchronization trouble we have with users in the developing world. They finally get access to a computer/internet-link and want/need to ask their questions and have an answer. Sadly, for them, this forum doesn't work in "real time chat" mode, so they're disappointed. By the next day, when they've talked to some of their fellow students, friends, or colleagues, the answer to their questions either become known or become irrelevant, since the subject of their discussion changes. Hence, we don't hear from them again.

If we insist that they read a lot of material before proceeding, this places an unmanageable burden on them.

I don't know what can be done to lessen the time-burden (time is money!) on this class of user. The fact that their plight has come up time and again implies that it may warrant some thought, though.

RE