Hamish
1. May I commend Jetdriver's post.
2. FWIW I'm a current 777 pilot with 25 plus years experience of long haul operations and just a bit of experience of the likes of Datalink, ACARS. I also generally try to be non-controversial. I felt on several occasions I could add something to "that" thread" but even so I've had several posts deleted. It's annoying, I don't think the mods always made the right decision but I'll accept they have been under pressure sometimes and I and also many others with expertise have been caught up in a cull. So be it.
3. I do have some sympathy, if you have any specific questions about T777 ops feel free to PM me.