OStatic

Matt Hartley at Datamation recently suggested promoting open source adoption -- using a very different venue. He suggests mall kiosks as a potentially effective way to spread the word about open source software, and how it can work for the average computer user.

This is a fascinating idea. User groups could reach several different demographics, populations that might never have heard of Linux, never mind understand the joys (and trials) of using it.

It's an idea with real risks, Hartley admits. With realistic expectations, it could also be wildly successful -- even as a business model.

Few will argue that engaged, active outreach isn't a crucial element that Linux User Groups (LUGs) and open source projects need to attract new users, supporters and contributors. The formula itself is simple. Trying to puzzle out what engaged, active outreach is in a perfect world, versus what a LUG can realistically deliver, is where things can become volatile.

The LUGs behind the Ohio LinuxFest (OLF) have spent the last few years working out the precise ingredients to make their formula work. The sixth annual OLF takes place October 10th and 11th in Columbus, Ohio. Though some ingredients may not work for every LUG planning an event, it's an interesting recipe to follow.