Random Ramblings

How I want a conference to be run

January 20, 2012 at 10:00 AM | categories: opinion

I've been thinking about 'ideal' ways of running an event like linux.conf.au (LCA) or a GNU hackers meetup (GHM). This post is about how I like my conferences, and how (if given a chance) I'd try to set things out.

Because I feel smaller events are more enjoyable, I'd try and cap a full blown conference (like LCA) at 450-500 people. For something thats meant to be focused on getting hacking done (a GHM for instance), I expect a cap of 50-100 would be more appropriate. (There are balances to be made for something targeting a hackfest, since having too many people just detracts from progress).

The layout

  • The entire event would be run as what LCA calls miniconfs - small sub conferences focusing on one project/technology/area
  • Talks would happen in the morning, with the afternoon being spent on hacking
  • Talks would be allowed multiple speakers (up to three). BUT! If there are multiple speakers, each must speak for at least 30% of the talk time allocated (This would probably only apply to sponsored speakers)
  • All material must be distributed under the Expat licence, or a copyleft licence approved by the conference of the presenters choice
  • All talks must be recordable by the event and presentable to the public - nothing secret/private, it would conflict with the licence requirements.
  • All slides should be made available to download with the talk information via the conference website (Ideally with video streams).
  • Everyone has equal treatment. There are no closed events organised where only some participants can attend. All organised events are open to all delegates
  • And a rather awesome suggestion I saw on the LCA2012 mail list was to hold a conference on a boat.