Reminder: The paper / presentation submission deadline is this coming Monday 12 May. Go to http://www.foss4g2008.org and click on 'Call for Papers'.

Early-bird registration closes on 15th June, so register soon!

FOSS4G is renowned for its hands-on WORKSHOPS and LABS. 2008 is no exception. The Workshop/labs track has been going well in terms of submissions. We have (as of 9th May 2008) 26 interesting and relevant submissions to choose from, ranging across a wide spectrum of GIS topics. Desktop GIS (with spatial analysis and geovisualization to the fore) is a common theme and there is a strong representation from the broad Internet GIS field (web map servers, rich internet applications/web clients, OGC web services). Themes also making an appearance are geoportals, metadata, spatial ETL and the use of spatial databases. There is also some focus on programming/scripting. The emphasis is heavily on showing what is possible with FOSS4G through practical "how-to's", getting software/services up and running quickly and trying them out. Many of the workshops emphasise the excellent Java-based tools and frameworks.

 90 minute Labs are included in the core conference package. Register for the full 5 day package and get to attend up to three 4 hour workshops free!

Submit your abstract soon. Come and have a bash in Cape Town.
Gavin Fleming
FOSS4G 2008 Conference Chair
www.foss4g2008.org