I appreciate the feedback and I'm also prepared for the uphill battle.
As I see it, there are a number of far ranging learning opportunities that OpenSource brings to the education community that can't be matched by the commercial vendors.
Some include:
* Students setting up their own small business, that markets and supports affordable software in their local community.
* Learning about business costs, competition, as well as customer relationships
* Join the QA (Quality Assurance) project and learn how to de-bug a world class software application
* Contribute to the web site by donating graphics and art work
* Contribute to OOoExtras by providing clip art and templates - remember donate a brick and get a house
While there are discounted prices of commercial software for students, there are also high license fees for each server run by the school district. These costs can be significantly reduced and put back into the class room.
The open source alternative provides a learning opportunity that transcends simple use of software.
By embracing the opensource concept, parents and students can ensure that ALL students have equal access to world class tools, an understanding of the value of Intellectual Property and an outlet for creativity in a co-operative environment.
I agree, I cant see it working here in Utah either. The big boys have worked their way into the hearts and minds of the school administrators. It doesnt make a lot of sense to try and sell a product to parents that their kids are unlikely to use "in the real world" Most parents, myself included would prefer ther kids get to know the mainstream products so they are technically savvy as they get older.
saving money is always on everyones minds, that I will agree, but unfortunately I think you've come into the ball game about 10 years too late for it to be truly successful.
There may be a market for another kind of software though. Just keep those ideas churning. Good luck!
As a parent and a technology person, I have doubts you'd be successful. Microsoft and the other software providers set up incredible deals for the educational market. Technology departments are overburdened and both they and non-tech parents tend to want mainstream programs that "everyone is using". At home, parents will either use the scaled down software suite pre-loaded on their computer or pay extra for one the popular packages.
Maybe there's a market in other states. But I doubt seriously you'd make any headway in Texas. It's not a fundraiser either of my PTOs would consider.
Hello,
I'm looking for feedback on a fundraising concept.
We are distribution partners for a number of OpenSource computer applications and are wondering if there might be a market in the School Fundraising area to promote applications in professionally produced CD-Rom format.
Here is the concept :
Students and families who purchase the CD-Rom get the leading OpenSource Office Productivity Suite that competes with applications from the major brands, at a fraction of the price.
School groups benefit from a 50% commission from the sale of the CD.
All students can create professional looking documents using software that respects copyright laws and is not pirated.
School Districts can even save significant amounts of money throught reduced commercial software license fees.
By providing professional packaged copies, we eliminate the risk associated with circulating home made software and the hassles associated with packaging and production.
The main challenge I have is seeking out contacts at the school level.
Does anyone know of firms that specialize in custom programs?
As this is my first foray into the fundraising world your insight is greatly appreciated.
