Open source software represents a shift away from proprietary developed software to community developed software. Each one of us in the community make up a small piece of the greater whole.
We contribute our talents, passions, ideas and time to build great software that is freely available to everyone. We build controls to ensure others can contribute while maintaining high quality. We document our work and translate it into other languages. We help each other when we need support. We share ideas and drive the best of them into action. We build companies that commercially back our creations. We are the open source software community.
This effort results in amazing software, independence from proprietary code and freedom from restrictions. This effort results in Ubuntu.
You're welcome to join.
Life long friends are made in the Ubuntu and open source community. People from all walks of life are involved, each contributing their own unique talents, from writing code to art to advocacy to helping other Ubuntu users. Building something as complex and varied as Ubuntu means working together - and working together towards big goals often results in great friendships.
The computer is one of the most powerful tools ever created. They are used to teach and to learn, to communicate, to create, and to solve complex problems. Open source software offers the power of computing to everyone and without limitations.
Opportunity for Schools and Students
With open source software a student can create at any level without cost. Students can dive into the universe, periodic table, geography, 3D animation, and further. The list is boundless. Above all, open source provides complete ubiquity. Students can use the same chemistry, astronomy, or mathematics software at school and at home. All of the software is, and always will be, free and kept up to date.
Opportunity for Individuals and Businesses
Many businesses couldn't get off the ground without open source software. It runs our websites, our email, our accounting and customer relationship management. Open source removes huge barriers to entry and enables a new age of emerging businesses.
Sharing what we love about Ubuntu is a fun and satisfying experience. We know how valuable it is, and we want the world to know too!
Whether by setting up a booth at a local education conference or throwing your own "Getting to Know Ubuntu" party, advocacy introduces new people to open source software.
It's easy to get started in the Ubuntu community. The best first step is often finding your Ubuntu Local Community Group (LoCo). They usually have a mailing list and online forum. Attend a get together and meet local people who are using and talking about Ubuntu.
Find your LoCo at http://loco.ubuntu.com/
There are many ways to contribute or find help and information.
Visit http://www.ubuntu.com/community to learn more.