The Short Version

We need your contributions. OpenZA is a site created for FOSS fans and anything that interests you could well interest others, so why not post an article on your project, a project you’re keen on, a news snippet a community event or even your opinion on the state of FOSS? Posts are moderated but we’re honest and fair in what we accept. To post go to the My Blogs -> OpenZA -> New Post and get typing.

The Longer version: What can I post?

In general anything to do with free and open source software, or open communities, is acceptable. Of course, we frown on self-advertisement, pornography, racist comments, marketing schpiels, Internet scams and weak attempts at generating backlinks to your dodgy Viagra website. We also don’t tolerate plagiarism. It’s fine to write a short summary of an interesting story you found elsewhere on the Internet and then link to the original. It is not good form to post an entire article, or even a summary without a link-back.

How much must I write?

As much as you like but be sensible about it. If you’re writing about something you saw on the Internet (and linking to it) then do it justice and give it about 100 words. Nothing is more frustrating than following a link to a website which simply has a headline and then tells to go elsewhere to read it.

If you’re writing an opinion piece or a how-to then use your discretion. Not everyone likes to read 1000-word manifestos on the Internet so if you’re writing more than that your point may well be lost. But, if you’re doing a How-To it may be necessary to do this much to explain the process properly.

Moderation?

We do moderate all posts. This is not intended as a negative thing but rather to ensure good quality material is being posted. We also have to protect against spam and unsolicited marketing attempts so things do need to be quality controlled. If you think you have what it takes to be an editor then join us in The Editors group.

In general all posts my members will be passed so long as they are genuine and fit within the guidelines. If you do submit a post you will be notified when it is published. If, for whatever reason, your article is rejected we will also let you know.

How do I post?

In the top menu bar you can select My Blogs -> OpenZA -> New Post. This will open up the back-end into which you can post your article. For Wordpress users this will be very familiar. On this page you can post the article including a headline, body, images if required and so on. You can save a draft version and come back to it later if you want, but when you’re done hit the Submit for Review button. That’s all there is to it.

Do I get paid?

Unfortunately not.

If you have any questions ask in the OpenZA-Writers group.

So, what are you waiting for? Get writing.