Re: [Fsfe-uk] UKFSN makes a profit

[Simon Waters]

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Jason Clifford wrote:
>
>>- We could choose a project in need and invest directly into resources for
>>  this project (be it hardware or programming time). This way we could
make
>>
>>- Or we collect the money and reward a few projects once a year with a
>>  prize.
>
>
> Before I continue on to suggest something else myself I want to be clear
> that this decision is one I want to steer fairly clear of. Other than
> having as much voice as any other AFFS member I don't want any say in the
> matter.

Understood, although you are experienced in producing and selling Free
software based products, so don't be shy in putting ideas forward.

The prize idea seems rather arbitary to me. Not that there aren't a lot
of good developers who deserve rewarding, but I think it would be better
to allocate the money to people who ask for it, as we can be sure they
want/need the money. re: AC's - I have a good job at Redhat - send
donations to someone who needs it more.

Besides a "prize" could get a project publicity and recognition without
awarding money, we could even do a "project of the month" to reflect
whatever is currently in the computing news (Worms, email viruses, spam,
medical software), and computer magazine publishing schedules.

I appreciate in a relatively small community awarding cash on request
might create some interesting conflicts of interest, but for as long as
the sums are small and the awards are clearly earmarked for specific
issues (hosting costs for specific server, adding this UK specific
feature to a free software application, etc), shouldn't be too
controversial.

I would want to avoid a big burocratic process, the kind of thing a
group could ask for, and know if it was likely to get any assistance
quite quicky (days and weeks, not months). "XXLUG/PROJECTZZ wants to run
stand at exhibition Y cost is NNN, we need MMM extra". Such requests
might also be met with less financial responses "AFFS, or member D,
already has stand at exhibition, go speak with them".

 Simon, miffed at getting reject letter today, before interview, for job
he was perfect for :-(, but not yet reduced to needing help to support
his ISDN line :-)
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