FLOSS - assignment

‘The phrase Free/Libre/Open-Source Software, or FLOSS is an inclusive term designed to be
neutral when referring to both free software and open source software.’
[Wikipedia 09.02.2006]


Essay [1000 words]
In around 1,000 words, discuss FLOSS. Illustrate your essay and make reference to a number of
artists/designers who use/develop free and open software tools. Consider the differences between
the consumer and the developer of software. How are these differences changed by FLOSS?

Digital artifacts and technical commentary [500 words]
The project requires that you complete a number of digital experiments. The playground is to be
PureData [pd]. Use OSX and/or Linux versions of pd. Linux [pure:dyne] is the most powerful version
and essential for working with pdp.

Make a series of patches that explore the following:-
Interactive 3D objects [Gem] [OSX or Linux]
Networked visual media [pure data packets - pdp] [Linux]
You will be expected to document and illustrate the development of your experiments, in around 500
words. With the networked media you can, of course, work in collaboration with others [your documentation
cannot be shared, however].

All patches/abstractions are to be available as download files from the website. Archive your
patches, media and help files in logically organised and self contained .zip files.

Project Website
All of the elements of this project will be presented in a website [on CD only]. You will be assessed
on the design of this site.