PHP short tags: Questions

Hi, I am trying to describe why php short tags failed to work on a server... here is my simplified explanation: "it had to do with the server settings... The short_open_tag directive in php.ini was set to 0." Do you think that is an ok way to describe the problem to a technically literate non php coder? Additionally, is there a good reference on the net that explains the differences between short open tags and normal open tags? Main negative things I have read about short open tags: 1. Not as portable. 2. Security risk/less secure. 3. Will conflict with XML tags. 4. Other? Thanks! Cheers, M -- Wishlists: <http://snipurl.com/1gqpj> Switch: <http://browsehappy.com/> BCC?: <http://snipurl.com/w6f8> My: <http://del.icio.us/mhulse>