David Mestel wrote:
I don't think that "implied discretion" is a good idea long-term - it's better to codify it in policy so that everything is consistent and in the open. Apart from anything else, it's kind of inadvertantly biting the newbies when stuff happens for reasons which aren't explained.
This is an eloquent expression of ongoing problems with process creep. Not everything needs to be codified in a strict policy involving a 5 day voting procedure.
One thing to remember is that deletions can be undone. Deleting an article is really no big deal.
As far as not biting the newbies, well, of course I agree. A kind and loving template which says "Thanks so much for your submission to Wikipedia, but it was deleted. Before submitting again, please read <this>, <that>, and <the other> policy, and if you have questions, please raise them at <an appropriate page>."
--Jimbo