Thats a very good point.

Many times I've seen people air their grievences on an open forum (like the TalonDigest, their local ClubDSM chapter board, or even here), without giving the vendor the benefit of trying to work out the problem. When this happens, the person usually ends up contacting the vendor, they resolve the problem, and then the person sheepishly apologizes to the list, regretting having caused a commotion.

By this point, the damage may have already been done. And, it has often made the individual look foolish in front of their peers.

So, if you are having a problem with a vendor, call/email/whatever them and try to work it out. Only if this fails should you consider airing the issue in public. The good vendors will usually be very cooperative.

juan