Internet protocol standards are devised through the efforts of thousands of people all over the world -- regardless of their having any particular background in data communications. On the other hand, proprietary protocols are created by a much smaller group of people, all of whom are directly or indirectly working for the same employer.
a) What advantages and disadvantages do you think are offered by each approach? Which would produce a better product? Which would produce a product more quickly?
b) Why do you think that IETF approach has achieved ascendancy over the proprietary approach?