What Does it do ?

Promoting
Free
Software
in
Edinburgh

EdLUG(Outreach) allows identified EdLUG subscribers the choice of joining the EdLUG (Outreach) subgroup or use  of its resources. Volunteers can use these to help with a project which they are passionate about and have the energy and time to complete.

These resources which are subject to approval include:

• Use of the EdLUG(Outreach) name and hence the name EdLUG.
  
• Use of the EdLUG(Outreach) bank account in storing previously raised funds.
  

EdLUG(Outreach) Projects

There is already a lot of work and ideas given by individual subscribers to EdLUG. This includes contributing code, giving funds or volunteering time. Such work will continue without the need for EdLUG(Outreach). There are times however when being part of a group gives an idea greater legitimacy and impact. Outlined here are some appropriate EdLUG(Outreach) Projects, resources available and how to get backing from EdLUG as group.

Using the EdLUG(Outreach) name

Attaching the EdLUG(Outreach) name to a letter gives that letter a great deal more power. For example, a politician receives a letter from a 200 strong community then they are going to give it more attention than if it were from just one constituent. To send such a letter there must be agreement within the group on its content. With our wide selection personalities and opinion it is unlikely that we would reach an agreement. However, we do all agree; on the promotion of Linux and Free and Open Source Software. For example:

1. Education
   • Create closer official connections with local Universities and Colleges
   • Promote lectures and talks for EdLUG subscribers and Computing Students
2. Politics
   • H.M Stationery Office: To supply government Departments, libraries, Schools with FLOSS
   • Edinburgh Council: To promote the use of CD Duplicators to burn FLOSS CDs for School Pupils
   • Members of the European Parliament: Software Patent Issues
   • Scottish Parliament: Promote the awareness and use of FLOSS in Scotland
3. Private Companies
   • Endorse Private companies that encourage use of FLOSS
   • Closer relationship with Employment Agencies
4. Sponsorship
   • Enable EdLUG(Outreach) to sponsor less well known but important FLOSS Projects
5. Further Possibilities
   • Apply for Community Grants for EdLUG(Outreach)

Using the EdLUG(Outreach) Bank Account

Apart from having a secure place to store previously raised EdLUG funds, this will enable us to get further discounts and apply for community grants. It will also give us a tool that we can use to interact with private companies and other projects. For example:

1. EdLUG(Outreach) Fund Raising
   • Sponsorship by companies could send money to a central point
   • Donation by companies could send money to a central point
   • A holding place for EdLUG(Outreach) fund raising or Specific EdLUG(Outreach) Projects
   • Application for Grants
   • Receive payment for filling job vacancies
2. EdLUG(Outreach) Payments
   • Enable EdLUG(Outreach) to sponsor less well known but important FLOSS Projects
   • Liability Insurance if needed
   • DNS Payments
   • Discounts from Hardware or other vendors