What is the format of a dorkbot meeting?

  • Brief intros, announcements, administrative details
  • Three 15-20 minute presentations followed by 5 minutes of Q&A
  • Opendork mic for anyone with anything to say, show-and-tell etc.
  • Performance, and time for mingling, networking, work-in-progress

We will sometimes deviate from this formula if you have a suitable special event that you’d like to propose, but typically we like to have three to four speakers for an evening as it gives more of us a chance to show off and be shown off to.

What should I present?

Here are some imaginary topics to give you an idea of what dorkbot is about:

  • A demo of the new motion tracking software you’re writing
  • Playing a video you made
  • An explanation of how you hacked your game boy to get it to make cool bleeping noises
  • Trouble shooting/brainstorming your remote-controlled sandwich-making robot
  • Bringing in some dancers you’re working with and having them demonstrate the interface used in your new mind-control ballet
  • Discussing your approach to electronic sculpture

Demos of commercial software are not appropriate, unless you wrote the software or you are making it do something particularly novel or interesting. On the other hand, presenting a piece that was created using commercial software is fine.

Opendork?

Anyone and everyone with a project can sign up for Opendork on a first come, first serve basis. You get a few minutes to show off your art on stage. At the end of the meeting, there will be time to mingle and do further demonstrations for anyone that’s interested.

Do I get paid to speak?

No. We don’t charge admission and we don’t pay speakers – dorkbot-austin is a free, community event.

What Resources will there be when I present?

You are encouraged to provide most of the resources needed for your presentation, including your own computers. Usually we have a mic, powered speakers, video projector, and internet connection. Check with us beforehand and we’ll do our best to help you out with whatever you might need

How do I sign up to speak?

Just email dorkbotaustin@dorkbot.org. Let us know what you’d like to present, and when you’re available. We’ll find a way to make it happen.