Re: [Debconf-team] DebConf discussion: Purpose of DebConf
Thanks to all those who've responded with their views. Below is an
updated draft description of DebConf's goals, which I hope reflects
the various comments made.
I have a queue of a few more specific DebConf process topics that it
could be useful for us to discuss, but I'd like us to get something
that everyone is happy with on this first, so that we can think about
them in relation to it.
Please respond to say whether this draft now agrees reasonably with
your views on the goals of DebConf.
Moray
*** Draft ***
This document describes the goals of DebConf, which should be borne in
mind when making decisions about any aspect of DebConf organisation.
Other documents describe the practical aspects, such as good network
connectivity and appropriate venues, which help work towards these
goals.
Note that the main annual DebConf is not the only Debian event which
can work towards these goals.
Primary goals
=============
These are the primary goals of DebConf:
* Enable face-to-face interactions
Many Debian contributors find communication much easier face-to-face
than online. Some of the informal interactions at DebConf can be more
important than the scheduled conference events. Face-to-face
interactions smooth over the grudges and differences which might be
perceived negatively when interacting only remotely, which can often
disappear completely through face-to-face interaction. Intense
technical discussions at DebConf can shortcut weeks or months of
mailing list threads.
* Provide talks and video
DebConf talks can help to spread information beyond those already
heavily involved in an area of Debian work, and can help to recruit
more people to work on areas of Debian. Probably the most 'efficient'
part of DebConf in terms of cost/benefit is the video team work to
provide streams and recordings of talks: the recordings can be used as
long as the talk subjects remain relevant, by Debian contributors and
others anywhere in the world.
* Provide time to work on Debian
Some attendees find it very valuable that DebConf gives them
uninterrupted time to work on their Debian contributions. This has
been the major purpose of holding a DebCamp outside the main DebConf
period: when successful, the work we can get from someone during this
time is of far higher value than the amount we spend on their
accommodation and food.
Secondary goals
===============
Some additional points are subordinate to the primary goals above, but
as long as we are arranging DebConf for those reasons we also work
towards these secondary goals:
* Motivate contributors
We intend DebConf sponsorship to encourage future work, not as a
payment in return for past work, but it's of course good if people
feel lucky to be sponsored to attend DebConf. Coming to DebConf
increases the enthusiasm of many attendees, and ultimately makes them
better citizens of the Debian community.
* Motivate the local community
It is positive if DebConf leads to a greater involvement in Debian
from locals in the region where it is held. Locals may get involved
because DebConf is close to them, then end up becoming Debian
Developers, while existing Debian Developers may be motivated by their
experience of attending a local DebConf and increase their level of
involvement in the wider Debian project.
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