Re: [Debconf-team] DebConf13 open to the public?
On 11/05/13 23:46, Moray Allan wrote:
> On 2013-05-09 20:13, Daniel Pocock wrote:
>> To make it clear, `Free' only applies (and should be emphasized) to the
>> content of the conference. For things like accommodation and food it is
>> probably sufficient to tell people that those things can't be guaranteed
>> if they fail to register and reserve.
>
> To make it clear: "Free" only applies to the contents of the Debian
> operating system.
>
> For the question at hand:
>
> In the past we *have* asked everyone to register, even if they only
> come for a day of DebConf. Debian Day events have been handled
> separately, and we have gone between having no registration and
> voluntary/advisory registration. When front desk has interacted with
> non-registered people, we have asked them to register themselves
> on-site (still via penta).
>
> In some years, DebConf badges have been required to enter the
> conference venue. This is not a stupid requirement, given the large
> amount of electronics around, and the fact that attendees often leave
> their laptops unattended (even when we have asked them not to). I'm
> sure there are no thieves in Switzerland, but equally in the Le Camp
> setup attendees will be even more likely than usual to assume that
> only bona fide attendees are present on site and leave expensive items
> around in the accommodation buildings and other areas.
>
If it should work as you describe, then the documentation probably needs
to emphasize it is simply "free of charge, with registration required"
as opposed to being 100% free as in freedom. Given that freedom is a
key element of the Debian philosophy, we should probably take care not
to add to ambiguity about the way the word is used.
Reply to: