DavidSymons
David Symons
Email: MailTo(ubuntu AT SPAMFREE liberatedcomputing DOT net)BRFreenode Nick: bimberi
Hi all,
I'm an ubuntu enthusiast from Canberra, Australia.
Looking Back
I've been using *nix for a number of years, Linux since 2000. I was made aware of ubuntu by a friend, just after warty's release and have been using it since. Much the happier for it too :).
I'm a developer, working mainly on bespoke software development consultancies for Australian Government organisations, predominantly based on the Oracle RDBMS. I'm proud to say that some of my code is still going strong after 18 years! I have moved into more of a management role in recent times but still like/need to "keep the hands dirty".
I've been a contributor to the [http://www.oztivo.net/ oztivo community], helping on the mailing list & forums, testing, bugfixing and wiki maintaining.
Some of my other tinkerings can be found at http://www.liberatedcomputing.net/ including an on-line Mind Manager to Freemind file-conversion utility.
Ubuntu
I feel the spirit of ubuntu matches well with my own philosophies summarised in part by my domain name of choice (see above). The Code of Conduct strongly aligns with my own thoughts on the way people should behave and treat each other generally.
Being used to (oztivo) forums, I initially got going on the ubuntuforums but have since developed a preference for helping out on IRC, which I've been doing since June 2005. One of the Ops there pointed out the idea of ubuntu membership to me.
I've also helped a couple of developers with testing (smeg/alacarte and a python/dbus email notifier) when they've popped into the channel looking for volunteers.
Ubuntu is evangelised whenever someone gives me the opportunity. Particularly when I hear about their latest virus/worm/trojan horror story. Some go away with an Ubuntu CD, although I've made sure I keep one of each distribution - I'm collecting :). I've even posted breezy CD's to someone on #ubuntu who only has dialup access.
Looking Forward
In November 2005 I handed in the final project of a (4 year) part time EMBA (hooray!). Spare time (and particularly mind-space) is now available to devote to a worthy cause like ubuntu!
This includes:
- Encouraging the company I work through to become an ubuntu support provider.
- Putting some (EMBA fueled) thought towards the marketing of ubuntu.
- Trying my hand at packaging. Freemind will be my first target.
- Continuing to help out on #*ubuntu*.
- My wife runs a home-based embroidery business and we're considering having a go at some ubuntu related embroidered merchandise (with permission of course).
Cheers, Dave.