Hi, At the LGM2009 Nicolas and I had some discussions about the OFLB terminology, and I thought I'd raise these points on the list for wider discussion.
One of the terms was the Free/Open/Libre distinction. I have been using the term "free fonts" or "free software fonts" in all my work, including work on the OFLB, and likewise Nicolas has been doing the same with the term "open fonts." Nicolas feels strongly that the term "free" should not be used, as it is too highly associated with freeware fonts, and ambiguity with the "gratis" meaning causes too much confusion, so it should not be used on the site. I feel strongly that "open" is also confusing because it doesn't bring to mind the primary goal, freedom, and this has concrete disadvantages like not publishing source files. He and I have been discussing this for at least 2 years, and it seems we are unlikely to resolve this difference. We both agree that "libre" solves both our problems, and although it introduces problems of its own - it is not a native English word, and so the meaning must be explained to most people - we are happy to focus on that term as a compromise. Another alternative is to refer to our fonts as "FLOSS fonts" instead of "libre fonts." What do you think? Cheers, Dave
