Deb Nicholson Talks About the Open Invention Network (Video)
The OIN (Open Invention Network) site's front page starts out by saying, "Open source software development has been one of the greatest sources of innovation. It has reduced costs, improved functionality and spurred new industries." After another few sentences it says, "Open Invention Network® is an intellectual property company that was formed to promote the Linux system by using patents to create a collaborative ecosystem." Go a little deeper, on the About page, and you learn that: "Patents owned by Open Invention Network® are available royalty-free to any company, institution or individual that agrees not to assert its patents against the Linux System. This enables companies to make significant corporate and capital expenditure investments in Linux — helping to fuel economic growth." Today's interviewee, Deb Nicholson, is the OIN's Community Outreach Director. We did a video interview with OIN CEO Keith Bergelt back in February. This one adds to what he had to say. And once again, we remind you: "...if you or your company is being victimized by any entity seeking to assert its patent portfolio against Linux, please contact [OIN] so that we can aid you in your battle with these dark forces." Make your first contact through Linux Defenders 911 -- and may the OIN be with you!
Title: [Someone I've Never Heard Of] [Verb Phrase] [Something I've Never Heard Of]
Summary: Long, incomprehensible mess peppered with links, quotes, name dropping of more people I've never heard of, actual symbols for (R) or (TM), plus a video.
Analysis: Slashvertisement.
Judgment: Slashdot is stagnated.
I defy anyone to dispute the facts I have presented.
Despite the snide comments here, I appreciate the work the OIN does, and wish more people would get involved. Perhaps if they did we'd have a better chance of getting software patents abolished, or at the very least made more trouble than it's worth. Thanks!