[AUUG-Talk]: Re: AUUGN Format

[Greg Black]

On 2004-12-08, David Purdue wrote:

> We are also looking at ways to make it easier for more people to 
> contribute content. The events help here - events tend to generate 
> papers that can be published. We are also looking at changes to our web 
> site to make it easier for all members to contribute. In this regard, 
> Michael Paddon has forshadowed some of our plans - we have commissioned 
> a design of an online portal that would provide timely content to 
> members and provide online discussion forums that could then lead to 
> content for online and mailed out publications. This design is showing 
> promise, and we a now working on plans for implementation of this portal.

This is excellent news.  In the past, it has been difficult to
contribute.  I don't want to point fingers here or to beat on
dead horses, so the details don't matter.  However, if there
were easier mechanisms for contributions to be seen, then I'm
sure people would take advantage of those opportunities.  So
take this as one strong vote in favour of the above.

> I have always said that the most valuable benefit of AUUG members is 
> other AUUG members. With AUUG going through some changes and 
> reinvigoration, now is a good time to think about what you can do to 
> contribute to the organisation: Organise an event? Recruit a member? 
> Write a paper? Make a presentation at your local chapter meeting? The 
> board is committed to fostering community, but the results depend on the 
> response of you - the community. It sounds cliched but the small efforts 
> of each of you can dwarf those of the board many times over. We believe 
> the changes underway will provide a more dynamic and vibrant environment 
> in which each AUUG member can contribute, benefit and prosper.

I thought this whole message was good, but it's this final
paragraph that puts it all into perspective for me.  I like the
idea of developing our community and I'm keen to contribute in
my own small way to that.  I hope others will feel similarly
motivated and that we can see AUUG evolve into something that we
can all continue to want to be part of.

Greg