10-11, 10:00–10:50 (America/New_York), Track 1 (206b)
Language: English
Bulletin board systems, the original home of the hacking community, seem to be an outdated relic of times long gone. However, not only do they still exist, but offer a unique and compelling alternative to our current online paradigm. Through the decentralized nature of the technology to the tolerant and multi-faceted nature of the community, BBSes offer not only a vision of the past but also a glimpse into a possible future.
OUTLINE:
1) Introduction to Bulletin Board Systems
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Introduction to the Speaker
A brief introduction to aNACHRONiST.
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What is a Bulletin Board System?
Bulletin Board Systems, also known as Bulletin Board Services, are the original home of the hacking community.
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The Unique Technological Characteristics of a BBS
What makes a BBS different from other electronic platforms?
2) BBS Culture
- The BBS community has its own culture that has formed over the decades.
3) Why call a BBS in modern times?
- Isn't the technology obsolete? Why call a BBS?
4) The Road Ahead for Bulletin Board Systems
- Is there a path forward for BBSes? What might that look like?
5) Question & Answer Session, followed by thanks and closing by aNACHRONiST.
- If time permits!
Talk Type:
50 min talk
What you expect from attendees?:
Bulletin board systems are the original home of the hacking community. Attendees can expect to learn what BBSes were, what they are now, how they are different from other means of online communication, and how they are relevant to modern users. They will learn about the unique value proposition of BBSes, how to become involved, and what pitfalls to avoid. Lastly, they will learn about some possible paths forward into the future for BBSing and possibly online communication as a whole. There will be a short question and answer session with the crowd if time permits.
I'm Daniel Kelly, also known as "aNACHRONiST". I'm the sysop of aBSiNTHE BBS, an internationally known Amiga bulletin board system. I'm a textmode artist with the groups iMPURE, Legacy Krew, and VOiD under the tag "aNSt". I'm a programmer specializing in BBS tools and games with Phenom Productions. I'm the winner of Linux Journal's ASCII cover contest, Evoke 2018, and numerous other art compos over the years. My board and I were featured in the online documentary "Back to the BBS".