Finnish Open Source Translators Getting Organised

Press Release
3.9.2003

Finnish Open Source Translators Getting Organised

Linux-Aktivaattori ry, a finnish non-profit organisation promoting the 
use of Linux and other Open Source software, organised the first Open 
Source translation workshop for the finnish language on 29-31 August 
2003 in the city of Turku.

There are currently several separated Open Source translation teams in 
Finland. During the event, these met for the first time to discuss a set 
of common guidelines on how to work together. New professionals and 
amateurs interested in translating software were also given guidance 
with the translation work.

The goal of the localisation workgroup of Linux-Aktivaattori, which was 
responsible for the event, is to advance the number, quality and unity 
of Open Source translations. Founded on Summer 2003, the working group 
has achieved a lot in a short time.

"The workshop was a major step forward. We believe the common guidelines 
agreed upon here have created a good basis for close cooperation between 
the translation teams in the future", says the vice-chairman of 
Linux-Aktivaattori Tero Kuusela.

A report made by Marko Grönroos, a representative of the localisation 
workgroup, was released at the workshop. According to this report, the 
most important parts of Linux have been translated well and 
comprehensively. However, most Linux distributions don't have their 
installation and administration software translated into finnish.

"The work continues and a lot remains to be done. Linux programs move 
forward so rapidly that translators have a hard time keeping up. More 
active translators are needed and we want to provide as good conditions 
as possible for joining and continuing this work."

More information: Tero Kuusela, Linux-Aktivaattori ry, phone 040 747 
0099, email tero.kuusela@linux-aktivaattori.org

The report by Grönroos and a summary of discussions during the workshop, 
both in finnish, can be found at 
http://www.linux-aktivaattori.org/twiki/bin/view/Press/WebHome#PressEnglish.

Founded on 2001, Linux-Aktivaattori is a finnish nation-wide non-profit 
organisation with the goal of promoting the use of Linux and other Open 
Source software in both private use and professional environments. The 
organisation aids in projects and founding of working groups and 
organises seminars, conversation events and training. More information: 
http://www.linux-aktivaattori.org


-- 
Tero Kuusela
vpj, Turuxi-vastaava
Linux-aktivaattori ry

'Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path 
and leave a trail.'