[OSM-talk] Unelected OSMF "advisers"

[Richard Fairhurst]

Michael Collinson wrote:
> For transparency, I have attended about one year of board meetings now I
> think (it is minuted). I took the approach that I should simply listen
> and pick up items that the MT could handle. I was however encouraged to
> take a more participatory role provided that I do not take part in
> voting. On board email, I answer questions that are asked and
> occassionally make reports or specific requests from the Management Team
> or License Working Group.  Else, the value is that I am generally aware
> of issues and do not need to be briefed. I cannot make comment on board
> meeting or email detail, but I do not think it breaching confidentiality
> to say that Steve's participation is overwhelming passive ... he makes
> his engagement through public, open channels to my knowledge.
>
> During the approximately the past three weeks, and only then, I have
> certainly been aggressive in giving advice ... and asking it.  Yes, it
> is possible that I have over-stepped bounds.

I find it difficult to imagine our mild-mannered Mike Collinson being 
aggressive!

The new board members have been elected because the electorate believe 
they are the people best placed to make OSMF better; because the 
electorate likes their vision for change.

When a benevolent long-timer offers advice and briefings, there is an 
implicit invitation to the newcomers to go native - for future 
activities to tend towards "business as usual". No document is neutral, 
no matter how well-intentioned; it is written within a particular 
worldview, with its own assumptions and backdrop.

But sometimes a fresh pair of eyes is exactly what's needed, without 
preconceptions about "we tried that once and it didn't work", without 
"we always have to think about this important matter". If the more 
long-standing board members choose to resist change, they do at least 
have a mandate. Advisers don't, and should bear their privileged 
position responsibly.

By all means you, and Steve, and others can be on hand to offer advice 
if asked. Your newly published document is interesting - very much so - 
but it's written with the experience and from the perspective of us old 
farts. Newcomers to the board should have fresh perspectives, fresh 
ideas. Let the new board form their first thoughts free of external 
pressure.

Richard