Our next interview comes from one of the new members of the GNOME Foundation Board of Directors Tobias Mueller.
Where do you live/work?
I live in Hamburg, in the lovely north of Germany.
Why is open source/free software important to you?
I believe that Free Software makes the world a better place. Also, as I am a bit of a computer security person, it is absolutely crucial to be able to see how the software in question works and be able to eventually fix issues (or have someone fix them).
How/when/why did you become involved in GNOME?
I’ve been using GNOME since I actively started using Free Software, probably back in 2002. I started to follow it more and more until I became greatly involved as a Summer of Code student in 2007.
Why did you run for the GNOME Foundation Board?
I have been around GNOME for about 5 years now and while I enjoy being in the community I also want to progress within GNOME and take on new responsibilities.
What do you hope to accomplish during your term on the board?
I hope to push the revamp of the bylaws and enable people to work together more effectively.
Do you think GNOME is heading in the right direction? Why or why not?
I think GNOME is doing well so far, but it must not rest (decadence anyone?). We have very smart people in our community and we should enable them to get awesome stuff done for both GNOME and the world of Free Software generally.
Have you attended GUADEC in the past? If so, when/where?
My first GUADEC was the one in Birmingham in 2007.
What are you looking forward to most at GUADEC?
To see friends again and have nice discussions.
Any other thoughts on GUADEC and/or GNOME?
GNOME is a great community and GUADEC is a good place to get in touch. Sometimes though, it might not be comfortable for newcomers to chime in. I still remember myself being too shy to talk to some great GNOME people. So while I recommend young GNOMErs not to be shy, maybe a “This is GNOME” introductory session for new GNOME people might be a good idea.