Red Hat frees Wide Open

For all of the FUD that some are eager to spread about Free Software and Open Source, the real truth is that the purveyors of such tripe are truly fearful that you might learn the simple object lesson: a long and happy life is filled with learning. They want you to believe that you are too ignorant to understand new ideas, and that your capacity for learning has eluded you. They need you to believe that you are too lazy to make an effort to think for yourself. Don’t buy that idea, for it is nothing more than an abdication of your obligations. Try to learn something new every day, no matter how small, for it will sharpen your mind and rejuvenate your spirit.

Today, I learned that Wide Open Magazine has changed its subscription model. I was pleasantly surprised today to surf the Red Hat and Omeda joint venture website when I noticed that they have announced a change in the previously for-pay subscription model for the new media venture.

Interestingly enough, if you were already a subscriber to the magazine, you will be receiving a refund! This means that Wide Open have changed their business model to an advertiser-supported model reminiscent of other industry mags such as eWeek, CRN, NetworkWorld, and others that offer a free subscription in exchange for demographic data.

In other words, if you are interested in obtaining the magazine for free, you have to submit the same sort of qualifying data that you do when accepting a complimentary subscription to other trade industry magazines. Yes, you have to share your data in order to receive the free subscription. It’s a small price to pay to recieve the magazine, which does have quality writing and very infromative articles. To qualify for your free subscription, simply visit the link, and share your data with Omeda. I already have and look forward to my first new issue.

“Have fun and stay safe out there.”