Date: Fri, 9 Aug 2002 16:03:00 -0400 From: Eric Thoman Subject: Manchester Java User's Group Meeting Wed, Aug 14 Discussion of an Open Source Group Some of the engineers in the Manchester Java Users Group have got together to offer Open Source services. As a means of saving businesses software costs, and to generate a continued flow of work, an Open Source Group seems to be a good fit. This meeting will attempt to further define the purpose of this Open Source Group in order to develop a marketing plan of action. Some thoughts and questions for the meeting: What are some concerns that a business might have in pursing an Open Source solution for their next development project? What possible benefits could a client company expect from a group formed to offer Open Source services besides greatly reduced project costs? What benefits could the engineers expect to receive from being a part of this group? What things can the group do for marketing; e.g., web site, presentation material, brochures, word of mouth, networking through past business associates, direct mail, government contracts. If an IT manager wanted to find Open Source developers, where would they go? Other ways to make people aware of the Open Source Option. Create a cogent presentation that would show the benefits of going Open Source. Create a strategy to reach the potential audience. Everyone uses there own contacts. ------------------------------------------------- -----------Meeting Location --------------------- ------------------------------------------------- This meeting will be held at: Southern New Hampshire University Walker Auditorium room RF-104 (This is the main auditorium straight thru the main entrance of the Frost Hall Academic Center Bldg). 2500 North River Rd Manchester, NH 03106 603-668-2211 Directions to the Walker Auditorium at the Southern New Hampshire University: http://www.manjug.org/WalkerDirections.html