[CTCVISTA] The Great Open API Debate: This Friday!

Hey VISTAs,

There should be a good technology conference-call debate going on
tomorrow concerning Open API's--things like Flickr.com allow you to
crosspost from your blog, or more relevant to us, having a CRM like
SalesForce integrate into your Drupal website. There are going to be
a lot of great people/vendors talking.

Also see:

http://www.nonprofittechblog.org/pre-open-api-debate-warmup-show

Further info below.

Ben

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>
> Dear NTEN, NPTech, and Rider Community,
>
> This is a reminder and update about the upcoming "open" debate about open API's NTEN is hosting this Friday. It's "open" because not only will be talking about open API's but we're also inviting YOU to listen in and write about what open APIs mean and how they will impact nonprofits. Here are the details again:
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> WHEN: This Friday, October 20th, 10:00 am Pacific Time
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>
> WHERE: Wherever YOU are!
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> HOW: Dial 1 866 740 1260, and enter passcode 397900 >Mark Bolgiano from the Council on Foundations will be moderating the debate. Our panelists are:
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> >Peter Campbell, Goodwill Industries
> >Tom Krackeler, GetActive
> >Zack Rosen, CivicSpace Labs
> >Steve Wright, Salesforce
> >Dennis Chyba, Kintera
> >Dave Crooke, Convio
> >Nick Ballenger, Democracy in Action
> (invited: representatives from Blackbaud and Harmony)
>
> Key Questions we'll address:
> * Does openness/Open APIs really matter for nonprofits? What tangible problems does it solve? Are there philosophical issues that are important to consider?
> * Where are the vendors on the panel going? What are they doing to address the demand for openness?
> * What is the relevance of open source in a world full of Open APIs?
> * What is the trend? Where is this "openness" thing headed? What should nonprofits be looking for from their software in a year? In 5 years?
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> This is an audio debate so you won't need to travel to attend – just dial in from your desk.
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> But we want you to do more than just listen in to what will be a spirited debate.
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> We're asking NTEN members and friends to sound off on the debate and on open APIs. Briefly write up your opinion and send it to us at bonnie@nten.org. We'll select rants to post on our blog and feature in our next newsletter.
>
> The Details:
> > Written Rants: Send us your take on the debate in 150 words or less by Tuesday, October 24, to make it into the newsletter. Don't forget to send in a photo of yourself! Send them to bonnie@nten.org.
> > Blog It: Think 150 is too limiting for you to voice your opinion? Then blog it and tag it with "NTEN" and "NPTech" so we can find you.
> > Read About It: We'll feature a roundup of the debate and your rants in our October newsletter coming out next Thursday. You can subscribe at www.nten.org/news.
>
> More is on our blog, www.nten.typepad.com/newsletter/, including choice quotes from the discussion that's already raging between our panelists. Comments and trackbacks are open so please jump in and join the discussion! (some of you are already: http://www.nonprofittechblog.org/pre-open-api-debate-warmup-show - great post and great picture, Alan!)
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> We are looking forward to a GREAT community debate.
>