9:21 p.m.
Hiya I've started adding links etc to the site can anyone suggest any
others they might want to get added?
9:29 p.m.
2009/2/15 Jon Nihill <jonothon.nihill(a)gmail.com>:
Hiya I've started adding links etc to the site can anyone suggest
any
others they might want to get added?
Open For Everyone [1] - it's a supplier of Linux PCs based in Staffordshire.
Russ
[1] http://openforeveryone.co.uk/
9:37 p.m.
Added it dude :P Anyone got anything else?
On Sun, 2009-02-15 at 21:29 +0000, Russ Phillips wrote:
2009/2/15 Jon Nihill <jonothon.nihill(a)gmail.com>:
> Hiya I've started adding links etc to the site can anyone suggest any
> others they might want to get added?
Open For Everyone [1] - it's a supplier of Linux PCs based in Staffordshire.
Russ
[1] http://openforeveryone.co.uk/
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Staffslug(a)staffslug.org.uk
http://lists.staffslug.org.uk/mailman/listinfo/staffslug
8:12 a.m.
2009/2/15 Jon Nihill <jonothon.nihill(a)gmail.com>:
Added it dude :P Anyone got anything else?
A few days ago, Simon said:
<QUOTE>
New site looks great but then looks don't matter - local linux content
is what matters like meeting dates and venues and local linux
companies/dudes?
Is there a linux companies bit? There's a bloke who sells Linux PCs
locally? Put me on: http://dpnet.co.uk - I'll sponsor a kebab or
something.
</QUOTE>
I'm inclined to agree that local Linux stuff would be good, so I'd add
dpnet.co.uk
Russ
10:17 a.m.
I could add it under something like local companies? or something like
that?
On Mon, 2009-02-16 at 08:12 +0000, Russ Phillips wrote:
2009/2/15 Jon Nihill <jonothon.nihill(a)gmail.com>:
> Added it dude :P Anyone got anything else?
A few days ago, Simon said:
<QUOTE>
New site looks great but then looks don't matter - local linux content
is what matters like meeting dates and venues and local linux
companies/dudes?
Is there a linux companies bit? There's a bloke who sells Linux PCs
locally? Put me on: http://dpnet.co.uk - I'll sponsor a kebab or
something.
</QUOTE>
I'm inclined to agree that local Linux stuff would be good, so I'd add
dpnet.co.uk
Russ
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9:27 p.m.
Cheers Russ, I owe you a kebab :-)
Other links - local stuff
where do you guys get parts from?
Overclockers - not exactly friendly but they do sell over the counter
--
Simon Faulkner 01538 303 900
http://dpnet.co.uk
Dedicated Programmes Limited
Staffordshire Moorlands
10:34 p.m.
I personally wouldn't endorse Overclockers either, and I certainly
wouldn't inflict that grief on anyone else willingly. The sad fact of
the matter is that they're the only major retailer (that I can think
of) in the Staffs area.
If you ask me (personally) I think it's far too subjective to be based
on every member's good/bad experiences (and I know how ironic that
sounds given my personal gripes.)
I think we should be a little more impartial as a public organisation;
sponsorship of larger organisations seems a little futile, given that
they're unlikely to show any gratitude in return for our support, if
they even notice.
Perhaps smaller companies (i.e. LinITX, or KustomPCs) would be
preferable. But if I'm honest, I'm not sure it's a great idea to go
over-board with corporate recommendations on the website. Promoting
local open-source companies is perfectly fine, but I'm not entirely
certain that large e-tailers really require our help (and not when the
arguments stemming from this idea will most-likely get a few backs up
on the list.)
Am I talking rubbish, or does this make sense to anyone else?
Tom
Quoting Simon Faulkner <simon(a)titanic.co.uk>:
Cheers Russ, I owe you a kebab :-)
Other links - local stuff
where do you guys get parts from?
Overclockers - not exactly friendly but they do sell over the counter
--
Simon Faulkner 01538 303 900
http://dpnet.co.uk
Dedicated Programmes Limited
Staffordshire Moorlands
_______________________________________________
Staffslug mailing list
Staffslug(a)staffslug.org.uk
http://lists.staffslug.org.uk/mailman/listinfo/staffslug
10:47 p.m.
2009/2/16 Tom Hill <tom(a)ninjabadger.net>:
I personally wouldn't endorse Overclockers either, and I
certainly
wouldn't inflict that grief on anyone else willingly. The sad fact of
the matter is that they're the only major retailer (that I can think
of) in the Staffs area.
If you ask me (personally) I think it's far too subjective to be based
on every member's good/bad experiences (and I know how ironic that
sounds given my personal gripes.)
I think we should be a little more impartial as a public organisation;
sponsorship of larger organisations seems a little futile, given that
they're unlikely to show any gratitude in return for our support, if
they even notice.
Perhaps smaller companies (i.e. LinITX, or KustomPCs) would be
preferable. But if I'm honest, I'm not sure it's a great idea to go
over-board with corporate recommendations on the website. Promoting
local open-source companies is perfectly fine, but I'm not entirely
certain that large e-tailers really require our help (and not when the
arguments stemming from this idea will most-likely get a few backs up
on the list.)
Am I talking rubbish, or does this make sense to anyone else?
you make good sense
personally i encourage use of ebuyer - their next day is now until
10pm at night, and is delivered before 12pm the following day
whilst they're a large "e-tailer" what they're doing should be common
with local companies!!! why can't others achieve this?
clockers are fairly poor... however i did pick up some mbpro ram from
them for less than crucial sell it direct.. so they're handy for a
bargain from time to time ;)
not much to say on the local front, sim will tell you himself its hard
to find a decent supplier around here!
Andrew
11:50 p.m.
i've actually never had to deal with overclockers, had a mate that worked there some
years ago and he hated everyone he worked with.
i usually get all my stuff from ccl, even with postage added in alot of their prices were
better than overclockers, but it is very subjective. most places have similar prices
really.
if i do need anything i'll buy it online, although i haven't had any money to buy
comp stuff in a while
sim
Date: Mon, 16 Feb 2009 22:47:20 +0000
From: andrew(a)andrewedwards.name
To: staffslug(a)staffslug.org.uk
Subject: Re: [Staffslug] website
2009/2/16 Tom Hill <tom(a)ninjabadger.net>:
> I personally wouldn't endorse Overclockers either, and I certainly
> wouldn't inflict that grief on anyone else willingly. The sad fact of
> the matter is that they're the only major retailer (that I can think
> of) in the Staffs area.
>
> If you ask me (personally) I think it's far too subjective to be based
> on every member's good/bad experiences (and I know how ironic that
> sounds given my personal gripes.)
>
> I think we should be a little more impartial as a public organisation;
> sponsorship of larger organisations seems a little futile, given that
> they're unlikely to show any gratitude in return for our support, if
> they even notice.
>
> Perhaps smaller companies (i.e. LinITX, or KustomPCs) would be
> preferable. But if I'm honest, I'm not sure it's a great idea to go
> over-board with corporate recommendations on the website. Promoting
> local open-source companies is perfectly fine, but I'm not entirely
> certain that large e-tailers really require our help (and not when the
> arguments stemming from this idea will most-likely get a few backs up
> on the list.)
>
> Am I talking rubbish, or does this make sense to anyone else?
>
you make good sense
personally i encourage use of ebuyer - their next day is now until
10pm at night, and is delivered before 12pm the following day
whilst they're a large "e-tailer" what they're doing should be common
with local companies!!! why can't others achieve this?
clockers are fairly poor... however i did pick up some mbpro ram from
them for less than crucial sell it direct.. so they're handy for a
bargain from time to time ;)
not much to say on the local front, sim will tell you himself its hard
to find a decent supplier around here!
Andrew
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Staffslug mailing list
Staffslug(a)staffslug.org.uk
http://lists.staffslug.org.uk/mailman/listinfo/staffslug
7:40 a.m.
Tom Hill wrote:
I personally wouldn't endorse Overclockers either, and I
certainly
wouldn't inflict that grief on anyone else willingly. The sad fact of
the matter is that they're the only major retailer (that I can think of)
in the Staffs area.
If you ask me (personally) I think it's far too subjective to be based
on every member's good/bad experiences (and I know how ironic that
sounds given my personal gripes.)
I think we should be a little more impartial as a public organisation;
sponsorship of larger organisations seems a little futile, given that
they're unlikely to show any gratitude in return for our support, if
they even notice.
Perhaps smaller companies (i.e. LinITX, or KustomPCs) would be
preferable. But if I'm honest, I'm not sure it's a great idea to go
over-board with corporate recommendations on the website. Promoting
local open-source companies is perfectly fine, but I'm not entirely
certain that large e-tailers really require our help (and not when the
arguments stemming from this idea will most-likely get a few backs up on
the list.)
Am I talking rubbish, or does this make sense to anyone else?
All makes sense Tom, but they are the only place to buy bits - unless
you count PC World.
Maybe we should just classify them "Local - over the counter sales" and
"National - Linux friendly suppliers"?
I am just keen to see the Staffslug site reflecting local info. I was
hoping someone would recommend another supplier I had missed :-( As it
is I have just learned about "KustomPCs" :-)
One question folks have is "Where can I go for some linux advice and/or
help installing my first box" - well the answer is ME! If they are
commecial I will charge, if they are hobbyists I won't.
7:55 a.m.
Just a quickie on company endorsements/links etc.
We have to be-careful on what we say/do etc, as we are only a .org, we
should be seen not to be considering make money etc (and as we don't
actually have any official bank account) .
Poss have a disclaimer on links?
Tom Hill wrote:
> I personally wouldn't endorse Overclockers either, and I certainly
> wouldn't inflict that grief on anyone else willingly. The sad fact of
> the matter is that they're the only major retailer (that I can think of)
> in the Staffs area.
>
> If you ask me (personally) I think it's far too subjective to be based
> on every member's good/bad experiences (and I know how ironic that
> sounds given my personal gripes.)
>
> I think we should be a little more impartial as a public organisation;
> sponsorship of larger organisations seems a little futile, given that
> they're unlikely to show any gratitude in return for our support, if
> they even notice.
>
> Perhaps smaller companies (i.e. LinITX, or KustomPCs) would be
> preferable. But if I'm honest, I'm not sure it's a great idea to go
> over-board with corporate recommendations on the website. Promoting
> local open-source companies is perfectly fine, but I'm not entirely
> certain that large e-tailers really require our help (and not when the
> arguments stemming from this idea will most-likely get a few backs up on
> the list.)
>
> Am I talking rubbish, or does this make sense to anyone else?
All makes sense Tom, but they are the only place to buy bits - unless
you count PC World.
Maybe we should just classify them "Local - over the counter sales" and
"National - Linux friendly suppliers"?
I am just keen to see the Staffslug site reflecting local info. I was
hoping someone would recommend another supplier I had missed :-( As it
is I have just learned about "KustomPCs" :-)
One question folks have is "Where can I go for some linux advice and/or
help installing my first box" - well the answer is ME! If they are
commecial I will charge, if they are hobbyists I won't.
_______________________________________________
Staffslug mailing list
Staffslug(a)staffslug.org.uk
http://lists.staffslug.org.uk/mailman/listinfo/staffslug
9:34 a.m.
Quoting Dave <dave(a)staffslug.org.uk>:
Just a quickie on company endorsements/links etc.
We have to be-careful on what we say/do etc, as we are only a .org, we
should be seen not to be considering make money etc (and as we don't
actually have any official bank account) .
Poss have a disclaimer on links?
TH: As per my first post; I don't think it's worth recommending larger
businesses, such as retailers. I have a few reasons for this:
- The LUG is a non-profit, impartial organisation (your point)
- We'll argue like hell over the choices - it's a timeless argument
point across forums I frequent (much like your favourite Motherboard
manufacturers)
- Any endorsements will be taken by the LUG (possibly) as golden by
new users. And any bad experiences they have may-well backfire upon
us. It's very hard to be impartial on this topic.
Though a disclaimer would cover the last point, it really depends how
much responsibility the LUG would like to take for its recommendations.
It strikes me that we don't collectively know where this is heading. A
link for this, that, the other can soon become crowded. Keeping it
streamlined, with choice links (that provide some real worth towards
potential Linux users) would be far better presented and a lot less
confusing to the new user.
(A little more to Simon's reply below.)
> Tom Hill wrote:
>> I personally wouldn't endorse Overclockers either, and I certainly
>> wouldn't inflict that grief on anyone else willingly. The sad fact of
>> the matter is that they're the only major retailer (that I can think of)
>> in the Staffs area.
>>
>> If you ask me (personally) I think it's far too subjective to be based
>> on every member's good/bad experiences (and I know how ironic that
>> sounds given my personal gripes.)
>>
>> I think we should be a little more impartial as a public organisation;
>> sponsorship of larger organisations seems a little futile, given that
>> they're unlikely to show any gratitude in return for our support, if
>> they even notice.
>>
>> Perhaps smaller companies (i.e. LinITX, or KustomPCs) would be
>> preferable. But if I'm honest, I'm not sure it's a great idea to go
>> over-board with corporate recommendations on the website. Promoting
>> local open-source companies is perfectly fine, but I'm not entirely
>> certain that large e-tailers really require our help (and not when the
>> arguments stemming from this idea will most-likely get a few backs up on
>> the list.)
>>
>> Am I talking rubbish, or does this make sense to anyone else?
>
> All makes sense Tom, but they are the only place to buy bits - unless
> you count PC World.
>
> Maybe we should just classify them "Local - over the counter sales" and
> "National - Linux friendly suppliers"?
TH: As above really (in my reply to Dave) I don't think it's worth
extending as far as recommending sources for purchasing hardware, but
my reasons for suggesting this are up there.
> I am just keen to see the Staffslug site reflecting local info.
I was
> hoping someone would recommend another supplier I had missed :-( As it
> is I have just learned about "KustomPCs" :-)
TH: Kustom PCs are actually based in Ayr. The reasoning behind
mentioning them in my first post was because I was recounting some of
the smaller, friendlier e-tailers that I know of. But drawing the line
on retailers (in my mind) should be that they /aren't/ recommended at
all. Again, as above.
> One question folks have is "Where can I go for some linux
advice and/or
> help installing my first box" - well the answer is ME! If they are
> commercial I will charge, if they are hobbyists I won't.
TH: Well, really, the answer is 'us'. Which I thought was one of the
points about having a LUG. ;)
I wasn't aware it was a medium for pimping your own services...
10:41 a.m.
Tom Hill wrote:
>> One question folks have is "Where can I go for some
linux advice and/or
>> help installing my first box" - well the answer is ME! If they are
>> commercial I will charge, if they are hobbyists I won't.
>>
TH: Well, really, the answer is 'us'. Which I thought was one of the
points about having a LUG. ;)
I wasn't aware it was a medium for pimping your own services...
TBH I'm
always uneasy when any Lug advertises outlets on their websites
for example as many of you know I work for an IT solutions provider,
heck I'll sell you a Linux machine if you like?
So if my company was listed on the 'Site' that would beg two potential
questions from surfers;
1. "Is that company paying them some sort of advertising fee?"
2. "Ah that's why the adds there 'such and such member' works for that
company (Or its their brother, uncle, aunt sisters shop etc.)
I'd far rather see something along the lines of;
"Many of our members work for or have experience of outlets for
Linux/OpenSource equipment and services, why not join our mailing list
and ask them?"
With maybe a hyper link on the 'ask them' pointing to 'join' that would
give two benefits to the Lug;
1. We would have done our bit in so far as offering advice.
2. Possibly increase the membership.
Obviously any deals would then be done Off-List and true its a sort of
blackmail to join the list but its a small price to pay and maybe they
might turn out to be a valuable contributor?
As it stands (With my Capitalist hat on) 'My Linux Equipment.Example'
gets loads of directs to their website, hopefully gets some business and
we get? nought I reckon.
Just my opinion from a wealth of Sales/Marketing experience. :-)
2 p.m.
TH: Well, really, the answer is 'us'. Which I thought was one
of the
points about having a LUG. ;)
I wasn't aware it was a medium for pimping your own services...
LOL, I fancy a black BMW now.
I'm not pimping but if you goto the StaffSLUG site, or many other LUGs
there's no one you can talk to.
People are welcome to phone me - 01538 303 900 and I will shoot the breeze.
If they want an install I will welcome them to my workshop and help them
install - After explaining the consequences!
IF they are a commercial organisation wanting paid support I will charge
but if they are just interested I won't.
Kinda almost exactly not pimping.
I just want to read about what's Linux in Staffordshire
2:02 p.m.
TBH I'm always uneasy when any Lug advertises outlets on their
websites
Indeed. Not advertising, not recommending just info.
=== LOCAL SUPPLIERS ===
Note: Ask on the board for upto data info and personal recommendations
Overclockers - a local supplier of PC components with a counter for
immediate sales
2:34 p.m.
Quoting Simon Faulkner <simon(a)titanic.co.uk>:
=== LOCAL SUPPLIERS ===
Note: Ask on the board for upto data info and personal recommendations
Overclockers - a local supplier of PC components with a counter for
immediate sales
Which as far as I'm concerned, is highly contradictory.
Really, a more general note indicating that queries concerned with
installations & procurement should be sought via the LUG list, and
that would cover this entire topic.
I'm sure something to that tune can be easily included, without
group/individual bias towards any retailer, nor casually dropping your
phone number into the list archives...
Tom
4:43 p.m.
Really, a more general note indicating that queries concerned with
installations & procurement should be sought via the LUG list, and
that would cover this entire topic.
I'm sure something to that tune can be easily included, without
group/individual bias towards any retailer, nor casually dropping your
phone number into the list archives...
Fair doos. But if everything is "refer to the list" what's the point of
a website beyond pointing to the list?
Don't get me wrong, I *love* the wireless article - (dear to my heart
since Ubuntu seems to have broken wireless networking in 8.10) but there
are LOADS of linux sites/lists working on problems and tech tips -
surely the emphasis for that StaffsLUG site has to be local info and
what's going on in our area?
What local companies are using/pushing/selling linux is interesting.
Is anyone plaguing their MP/local government reps about open standards
Where can I get linux/installed/chat about
YAY! There's a meeting - is there an agenda or a challenge?
Visit's to other lugs - anyone fancy a mission across the border?
Here's some others I like:
http://www.pywm.eu/
http://geekup.org/
http://www.multipack.co.uk/
http://aaispissup.wikidot.com/
What local LUGs have people been to?
Martin and I went to Sheffield LUG once and we met the South Cheshire
LUG in Alsager (They seem to have been disbanded?)
I speak with a lot of the Edinburgh LUB chaps - they seem really vibrant
- loads of Debian and or Other serious developers there
--
Simon Faulkner 01538 303 900
http://dpnet.co.uk
Dedicated Programmes Limited
Staffordshire Moorlands
5:02 p.m.
2009/2/17 Simon Faulkner <simon(a)titanic.co.uk>
Don't get me wrong, I *love* the wireless article - (dear to my heart
since Ubuntu seems to have broken wireless networking in 8.10) but there
are LOADS of linux sites/lists working on problems and tech tips -
surely the emphasis for that StaffsLUG site has to be local info and
what's going on in our area?
For what it's worth; I don't see a problem with individuals contributing
their own articles and having them on the site. Not sure having it on the
front page is ideal. Why not have a section on the web site with links to
outstanding howtos (perhaps acknowleging the popular distros of the day)?
This would be a useful reference resource particularly for Linux newbies.
I think the list is a good place for help with narrow technical issues.
Chris.
5:15 p.m.
Quoting Simon Faulkner <simon(a)titanic.co.uk>:
> Really, a more general note indicating that queries concerned
with
> installations & procurement should be sought via the LUG list, and
> that would cover this entire topic.
>
> I'm sure something to that tune can be easily included, without
> group/individual bias towards any retailer, nor casually dropping your
> phone number into the list archives...
>
Fair doos. But if everything is "refer to the list" what's the point of
a website beyond pointing to the list?
One of the main reasons for changing the website was to keep it
simple, and hopefully use it as a conduit for populating the IRC
channel/mailing list further, as opposed to including _absolutely
eeeverything_ on the website. You may have noticed already that there
just wasn't enough active members to satisfy the requirements of a
forum, mailing list, regular meets, activity days, lively IRC channels
etc.
Building content into the website gets us hits, and hits on
interesting content will hopefully lead to more mailing list members.
A good mailing list is a good pre-requisite to any organisational
group, and should hopefully result in more meets, more events and a
more active LUG.
Right now though, we need an attractive website, that isn't spoilt
with 1001 cooks adding a tonne of static 'meta-content'. It's far more
worthwhile to provide the list for up-to-date information regarding
Linux and local information, with interesting articles the basis of
content on the website. Including a lot of static 'information' just
means that the majority of your website can easily go stale without
constant updates.
Though your other ideas are fantastic, and I'm not trying to be
disheartening; you appear to be wishing this particular LUG to run
before it's even walking competently. It's just sadly not as big as
similar efforts around the country.. *yet*. It took us all long enough
to organise the last meeting.
Perhaps an article regarding the _current_ state of local companies
would be a better idea, than providing static information? In this
situation, comments upon the article could also be utilised for
discussion/opinion. As you seem to be very interested in the
proliferation of local companies (bias aside) would you be interested
in penning an article?
Tom
7:01 p.m.
What's wrong with simply saying:
"I went to this company. I told them I wanted hardware that would be
guaranteed to work with Linux."
The next bit would then depend on whether that company first of all
had ever heard of Linux and secondly whether they were at all helpful.
If they weren't then it's a simple matter of saying this comapny is a
knowledgable Microsoft retailer... end of matter. No lies, no law
suits.
I've had experience in this area as you are no longer allowed to give
a bad reference to an employee (or an ex one at that). In the past
I've had to simply say 'no comment'. It's perfectly legal.
--
==============================================
Kevan Farmer
Linux user #373362
Staffordshire
5550
days inactive
5552
days old
21 comments
10 participants
participants (10)
-
Andrew Edwards -
Chris Snow -
Dave -
dick_turpin -
Jon Nihill -
Kevanf1 -
Russ Phillips -
Simon Faulkner -
syed ali -
Tom Hill