BOLZANO. «Open source» and companies, a combination that produces results. A network necessary for the research and development of new products. Photography can be taken over these two days at Noi, the Bolzano technology park. Crossroads of developers and researchers, managers and university professors. Free software gives the user four freedoms: that of using it when and where he wants, the freedom of being able to study it while having access to the source code, hence the term “open source”. Then the freedom to modify it, or adapt it to your needs. And the fourth is to be able to sell or distribute it, so it is also important for companies to use it as a basic technology for their innovative products which then end up on the market. All within the framework of the Sfscon 2004 Conference, the free software festival.
A thousand people have been crowding Noi Techpark since yesterday and until this afternoon. «A nice mix, we have researchers, because here at the Technology Park there is the world of research with unibz, Eurac, Laimburg and Fraunhofer, as well as start-ups and companies that do research and product development», underlines Patrick Ohnewein , director of the Digital unit of Noi Techpark. Experts come to the conference from all over the world (about a hundred), especially Europe, but also America and Asia. «The users of these initiatives are people who want to understand the advantages of free software, but also developers and researchers. In addition to classes in various schools, with children who want to learn about technology, which is now prevalent in the daily lives of each of us”, Ohnewein continues. «We have grown over the years, this is the 24th edition. In 2001 we were around 10 people and this year we reach a thousand participants, who in two days tell their stories and exchange know-how», highlights the manager of Noi Techpark .
«Our task as a technology park is to help the territory increase investments in innovation. We want to help companies that create new products and then export them all over the world grow, because this brings the investment back to the Province. The Sfscon serves to create a network of actors who will carry out research and development projects. Because for a company the problem is not that of finding the funds for projects of this type, but rather that of finding the brains, the capable people with whom to collaborate and who carry out research and development. Here there are thousands of potential collaborators and this is why there are also companies looking for brains. We organize everything. Until now, thanks to European funds and the help of companies, we have managed to cover the costs of this conference. And in this way it is possible to avoid having to pay the entrance fee, allowing many young people to participate”, says Ohnewein.
«Today the Noi Techpark symbolizes South Tyrol’s commitment to digital innovation. Sfscon is the perfect platform to promote a culture of openness and collaboration, essential to establish Alto Adige as a technological center of reference”, said provincial councilor Philipp Achammer. Yesterday one of the highlights was the presentation of the European Sfs Award. The award went to Bram Moolenaar, the creator of Vim, the world-renowned open source text editor. The posthumous prize, awarded by the Free Software Foundation Europe (FSFE) and the Linux User Group Bozen-Bolzano-Bulsan (Lugbz), highlighted his tireless commitment to the global diffusion of free software.
Furthermore, for the contribution given at a local level, Lugbz awarded the Sfs Award to Angelika Stuefer and Franca Riesch De Pasquale of the Vke – Playground and Recreation Association for the MiniBZ project. Since 1990, MiniBZ has involved thousands of boys and girls; is a role-playing game that allows you to understand how everyday technologies work, using recycled PCs, all equipped with open source software. To continue to support Open Source culture at a local level, Sfscon has planned many activities for the population. The two days will end with the award ceremony for the winning teams of the Noi Hackathon Sfscon Edition.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Patrick Ohnewein, Director of the Digital Unit of Noi Techpark
Editor: Good afternoon, Patrick! Thank you for joining us today. It’s exciting to hear about the developments happening at Noi Techpark, especially with the Sfscon 2004 Conference underway. Can you tell us a bit more about the significance of this event?
Patrick Ohnewein: Good afternoon! Thank you for having me. The Sfscon is a crucial gathering for anyone interested in open source technology. It’s become a melting pot for researchers, developers, and businesses alike. This year, we’ve welcomed about a thousand participants, which showcases the growing interest and potential of open source in driving innovation.
Editor: That’s impressive growth! You mentioned the four freedoms that open source software provides. How do these freedoms translate into practical benefits for companies?
Patrick Ohnewein: Absolutely! The four freedoms allow companies not only to use open source software as a foundation for their products but also to tailor it to their unique needs. This adaptability is vital for innovation. Companies can build on existing technologies without starting from scratch, which accelerates product development and ultimately brings new offerings to market faster.
Editor: With over a hundred experts attending from around the globe, what do you think they are hoping to gain from the conference?
Patrick Ohnewein: Participants are looking to understand the advantages of free software and to forge connections with potential collaborators. Many are eager to explore best practices and share success stories. At Sfscon, networking happens organically; you never know what kind of collaborative opportunities will arise during these discussions!
Editor: Fascinating! As a technology park, what role does Noi Techpark play in promoting innovation in South Tyrol and beyond?
Patrick Ohnewein: Our mission is to foster an environment conducive to innovation. By organizing events like Sfscon, we not only bring together a diverse array of talent but also help companies secure the skilled workforce they need for R&D. South Tyrol is committed to becoming a technology hub, and our park is designed to facilitate that goal by increasing investments in innovation.
Editor: Speaking of talent, you touched upon the challenge many companies face in finding capable individuals. Can you elaborate on how the conference addresses this issue?
Patrick Ohnewein: Certainly! The Sfscon space is teeming with potential collaborators. Many companies attend specifically to scout talent, and by providing a collaborative platform, we help bridge the gap between researchers and industry. Through workshops, presentations, and casual networking opportunities, we create an environment where individuals can showcase their expertise, ultimately benefiting both parties.
Editor: That’s a critical function you’re serving. I understand the conference is also backed by European funds. How does that support impact the event and its participants?
Patrick Ohnewein: The support from European funds is invaluable. It allows us to keep the entrance fee free for participants, especially benefiting young enthusiasts eager to learn. This accessibility means we can welcome a greater variety of voices and perspectives, enriching the dialogue and overall experience of the conference. It truly embodies the spirit of collaboration.
Editor: what do you envision for the future of the Sfscon and the role of open source in technological development?
Patrick Ohnewein: I foresee continued growth for Sfscon and an even stronger emphasis on collaboration in open source development. As technology evolves, open source will play a pivotal role in driving innovation across sectors. The culture of openness fosters creativity, and I believe it will solidify Alto Adige’s reputation as a reference point for digital innovation in Europe and beyond.
Editor: Thank you, Patrick. It sounds like the Sfscon and the initiatives at Noi Techpark are paving the way for a bright future in technology and innovation. We look forward to hearing more about your progress!
Patrick Ohnewein: Thank you for the opportunity! It’s been a pleasure discussing this with you.