[Fsf-friends] Ten ways to promote communication within a GNU/LUG

Frederick Noronha fred@bytesforall.org
Wed, 2 Oct 2002 10:49:37 +0530 (IST)


Thanks to Shyam Kumar.s <shyamkumars@yahoo.com> for his feedback and
constructive criticism on an earlier version of this posting. Responsibility
for errors, or conceptual flaws continues to be mine. Send in your feedback
to fred at bytesforall dot org. FN

COMMENT: Ten ways to promote communication within a GNU/LUG...

* Build a network of GNU/LUG speakers, who are capable to speak and
  evangelise on the power of GNU/Linux. It's important to list
  who's available to speak on what subject, so that the interests
  of newbies are catered to. Technical issues are imporant; but
  issues like the philisophy of Free Software needs to be
  adequately understood. The power of sharing and helping one
  another also can be emphasised.

* List  readily available GNU/Linux software,  where
  available, and  under what terms it can be 
  shared freely and without artificial restrictions.

* List GNU/LUG members and contact details. Group communications
  through GNU/LUG mailing-lists build a self-learning environment
  for all, but sometimes one-to-one correspondence may be more
  apt in order to (i) avoid mailing-list overload (ii) address
  issues which might not be of wider group interest.

* Expanding numbers is important. It helps GNU/LUGs attain
  critical mass. At the same time, it's equally important
  to take care of one another's learning needs, and the
  requirement of building a caring, sharing environment.
  Sharing and community building could prove more valuable
  than mere technical excellence, as the latter could lead
  to stagnation and elitism along its trajectory.

* Report regularly on GNU/LUG meetings. This build
  bridges to those not present.

* Plan for GNU/LUG meetings in advance. Meetings with 
  outlined agendas and scheduled talks could attract more
  people than vague, no-agenda meetings. Meetings should
  also take care of newbie interests, including talks and
  subjects that would help to build interest among those who
  are not so well-versed with GNU/Linux.

* If nothing else works, trying to build more 
  mini-GNU/LUGs in your area.