So what do i do when other people aren't online?

[BumbleBumble 20]

So i logged on this morning, fresh faced and excited to play:
Looked at my options, the boat needed work, we were low on tools, melee weapons and armor. 
Then remembered I'm specced into making guns/cannons and can't do anything to help my company. 
Logged off.

I understand people want specialisation but if i can't log on and actually get on with something because of limitations of the game design, then i think the system is flawed. 
Yes i know, I could spent hours farming, but seriously. That shouldn't be the only option. 

[Coggage 239]

This is EXACTLY the problem with Specializing.  It's great when everyone is on, as you say, but if the only Taming specialist hasn't been on for days or the Shipbuilder is on holiday you're screwed.  People need the BASIC skills before they choose a Specialization or they can't play if they're on their own.

Yesterday morning I left Freeport able to build metal tools and a smithy, build wooden structures, make a water barrel and, if I lost my raft, I was able to make a tiny shipyard and get a replacement raft.  Basic survival stuff.  In the afternoon I could do none of those things, which is a heck of a blow when you are starting out.