Hello,
An introduction:
One or two people here know me, Magnus, already. I am involved with events and activites at The Chateau in Glasgow where I have established a low cost media lab for use by the community of artists in these studios (some 30 people). This has been achieved with the help of individuals from ScotLUG and people connected through the YourMachines workshops at the CCA (www.yourmachines.org).
The Chateau project:
Currently there are several recycled machines running Ubuntu. There is a DHCP server (floppy distro) and a broadband connection. I want to develop things further: introduce a web server, DMZ, maybe some greater network transparency and at least one machine running video editing software. A wireless node would also be a good addition.
A second project:
I am also investigating the possibility of providing low cost IT solutions to individuals and small organisations in the third sector.
Here's the bit I am putting into a funding application to Scotland Unlimited (http://www.unltd.org.uk/home.php). It's in no way to be taken as a final business plan:
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I wish to undertake planning and development with the aim of establishing a small business to offer low cost computer solutions to small organisations in the voluntary and third sector. These solutions will the make use of recycled hardware and use freely available, co-operatively developed Open Source software, such as Linux; the web browser Firefox and the range of office applications available from Openoffice.
The consultancy will aim to develop a range of packaged solutions: from standalone computers for the single user, to multiple shared terminals operating in networked environments. In many cases this means not only the provision of individual workstations, but also of server machines, which act as a secure gateway (or filter) for information travelling in and out of the local network, usually to the internet.
By using low-cost and free software as well as recycled hardware, individuals and organisations with small budgets will get cheap but reliable solutions. I anticipate that in many case this will release money for two things: thorough analysis of the client’s requirements; ongoing training for users, so that they learn to work productively with all the tools at their disposal.
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Questions:
For the second project, I don't have all the skills to do these things yet but I want to develop them (Linux-wise I am a novice). I have been asked for the funding application to propose a training path that would help me in developing Linux skills, so I am emailing now to ask for your opinions and suggestions on where to go, who to ask. I may be able to ask for up to £1000, but preferably less. I am asked to receive the training ideally through a community organisation (i.e. not a training consultancy).
Connected, but maybe less formal is The Chateau project which is pretty much open to suggestions. I was wondering about the possibility of running an install day there. Maybe someone would also spare some time to give hands on help or just advise.
Hope this is clear enough. I'll be happy to supply any further information. Looking forward to your responses.
Regards,
Magnus Lawrie
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