Mountaineering Acoustics NetworkThe Mission to Embrace Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS) Principles
Exploring the technical sides of the establishment of the network - IRM Design
In this very nice painting, Gnu and Tux are depicted as warriors. Gnu leans on his ax, and carries a shield adorned with the copyleft logo. Tux carries a sword. From the top of a steep hill, they look at the fire-devastated area around them. Three ominous birds are flying in the smoke-darkened sky.
Initiative
In the early stages of establishing the MAN network, we defined a clear mission: to wholeheartedly support the Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS) community and contribute as much as possible in this domain.
Our commitment encompasses not only the use of software within the network management and operational workflows but also the methods of distributing and disseminating the content produced by the MAN network. This includes our vision for "open knowledge", which emphasizes the importance of accessible knowledge sharing and collaboration.
Structure of the IRM System
The IRM (Information Resource Management) system of the MAN network is designed to streamline internal and external management processes while exclusively utilizing FOSS softwares to enhance the influence of the FOSS community. By modifying source code, we can tailor any FOSS software to perfectly fit the needs of the MAN network. This approach not only enhances our operational efficiency but also enables us to offer valuable insights for improvement within the community.
Management Board
The central governing body that oversees the entire IRM system. It establishes strategic directions and ensures alignment with the organization's mission to support FOSS principles.
Internal Management Components
Within the IRM system, several key components work together to facilitate effective internal management:
- OE - Protégé: We use Protégé as an ontology engineering tool for defining various terms and their relationships used at "soundex" and other contexts with precision.
- PMS - Kanboard: We use kanboard as our internal project management system that allows teams to visualize tasks and workflows.
- DMS - Teedy: We use Teedy as our document management system that organizes and stores internal or public documents.
- KMS - Instiki: Our knowledge management system employs Instiki to integrate and organize the final structured knowledge within our network's knowledge system.
- CMS - Omeka S: A content management system that enables the organization to curate and present digital collections, supporting the dissemination of knowledge and resources.
Internal Information Circle
This cluster encompasses the OE and PMS, which are interconnected to ensure seamless communication and collaboration within the MAN network. The DMS and KMS further enhance this ecosystem by facilitating knowledge sharing and document management, creating a cohesive internal information framework.
External Management Components
The IRM system also includes components for managing external relationships:
- EMS - Gancio: The event management system that serves as a tool for managing both internal and external meetings and events.
- UGM - Postorius: A user group management system that helps in organizing and managing the user groups of the MAN network.
Together, these components create a comprehensive IRM system that supports the organization's mission and enhances both internal operations and external relationships.
Conclusion
We firmly believe that by flexibly utilizing FOSS management softwares, we can better exchange experiences with similar organizations and develop software that is more suited to the needs of an organization focused on sound.
Cover Image "Free Software Dealers" Credits:
- Original Image: © 2017 Péhä | contact.peha@posteo.net
- English and French Cards: © 2021 Péhä
- License: This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0).
