Hi all,

First, it was great to see many people at NVDACon 2020. I personally consider this a successful event despite the pandemic and its effects. Although we had issues in the beginning, it ran smoothly, especially as the post-keynote QnA was very extensive.

A few thank you’s:

• Robert Hangi: chairing the organizing committee and upgrading the pre-keynote experience.
• Laura Cornwell and friends: effective promotion, and for streaming parts of the conference.
• Austin Pinto and other recording engineers.
• Derek Riemer: infrastructure and providing support.
• NV Access crew: another amazing keynote.
• Presenters: for diversifying the topics.

 

And most importantly, audience members who shared their passion for NVDA and giving organizers countless encouragements. Hope the event served as a healing moment for you.

 

Second, based on actual experience and post-event feedback, I would like to suggest that organizers look into a different platform for NVDACon 2021 and beyond. Of course we have to think about accessibility and outreach, but mostly to help future conference moderators perform their tasks more efficiently. Zoom is a possibility, and Doug Lee apparently organized an Excel spreadsheet with potential platforms. I would also like to suggest that when a platform is chosen, organizers meet regularly using that platform to familiarize themselves as to how to use it effectively.

 

Lastly, NVDACon Twitter feed is still alive. The next post from there will be done when recordings become available.

 

I announced this after the closing forum, but this is to affirm that I will not be participating in NVDACon planning for next year. However, if people want me to, I can give coaching for presenters upon request – mostly to go over online presentation etiquette, how to respond to comments, and refining small things in content. Apart from that, I will be your biggest fan from the distance.

 

May the NVDACon continue to bridge the community for years to come.

Cheers,

Joseph

 

Joseph S. Lee

Student (communication studies), California State University, Los Angeles

Code contributor and add-ons reviewer, NVDA screen reader project

Certified NVDA Expert, 2019

Founding chair, NVDA Users and Developers Conference (NVDACon – 2014 to 2016

I'd respectfully point out that Zoom is not free - it actually ends up being quite costly for something like NVDACon - so it's not simply a matter of popular opinion. Any proposal to move to an alternative platform also needs to consider how that platform will be funded and/or set up.

Jamie

On Tue, Dec 8, 2020 at 9:08 AM Lino Morales <linomorales001@...> wrote:

I didn't partake in the Con this year, however I vote for Zoom for 2021 and later. As you stated Joseph the hosts have more control. I'm been crowing about getting Zoom for the past couple of years pree pandemic. Glad it went well and hope to hear the recordings soon.

On 12/7/2020 4:39 PM, Joseph Lee wrote:

Hi all,

First, it was great to see many people at NVDACon 2020. I personally consider this a successful event despite the pandemic and its effects. Although we had issues in the beginning, it ran smoothly, especially as the post-keynote QnA was very extensive.

A few thank you’s:

• Robert Hangi: chairing the organizing committee and upgrading the pre-keynote experience.
• Laura Cornwell and friends: effective promotion, and for streaming parts of the conference.
• Austin Pinto and other recording engineers.
• Derek Riemer: infrastructure and providing support.
• NV Access crew: another amazing keynote.
• Presenters: for diversifying the topics.

 

And most importantly, audience members who shared their passion for NVDA and giving organizers countless encouragements. Hope the event served as a healing moment for you.

 

Second, based on actual experience and post-event feedback, I would like to suggest that organizers look into a different platform for NVDACon 2021 and beyond. Of course we have to think about accessibility and outreach, but mostly to help future conference moderators perform their tasks more efficiently. Zoom is a possibility, and Doug Lee apparently organized an Excel spreadsheet with potential platforms. I would also like to suggest that when a platform is chosen, organizers meet regularly using that platform to familiarize themselves as to how to use it effectively.

 

Lastly, NVDACon Twitter feed is still alive. The next post from there will be done when recordings become available.

 

I announced this after the closing forum, but this is to affirm that I will not be participating in NVDACon planning for next year. However, if people want me to, I can give coaching for presenters upon request – mostly to go over online presentation etiquette, how to respond to comments, and refining small things in content. Apart from that, I will be your biggest fan from the distance.

 

May the NVDACon continue to bridge the community for years to come.

Cheers,

Joseph

 

Joseph S. Lee

Student (communication studies), California State University, Los Angeles

Code contributor and add-ons reviewer, NVDA screen reader project

Certified NVDA Expert, 2019

Founding chair, NVDA Users and Developers Conference (NVDACon – 2014 to 2016

Yes you are correct James. I wonder between NV Access and
individuals/non for proffit orgs around the world with some promotion
etc. could raise money to use Zoom? If the NVDA community worldwide
starts something like this now that would be great. Yeah I know many
folks can't donate, but if we get said orgs for the blind on board that
would be a running start.

On 12/7/2020 6:27 PM, James Teh wrote:

I'd respectfully point out that Zoom is not free - it actually ends up
being quite costly for something like NVDACon - so it's not simply a
matter of popular opinion. Any proposal to move to an alternative
platform also needs to consider how that platform will be funded
and/or set up.

Jamie

On Tue, Dec 8, 2020 at 9:08 AM Lino Morales <linomorales001@...
<mailto:linomorales001@...>> wrote:

I didn't partake in the Con this year, however I vote for Zoom for
2021 and later. As you stated Joseph the hosts have more control.
I'm been crowing about getting Zoom for the past couple of years
pree pandemic. Glad it went well and hope to hear the recordings
soon.

On 12/7/2020 4:39 PM, Joseph Lee wrote:

Hi all,

First, it was great to see many people at NVDACon 2020. I
personally consider this a successful event despite the pandemic
and its effects. Although we had issues in the beginning, it ran
smoothly, especially as the post-keynote QnA was very extensive.

A few thank you’s:

* Robert Hangi: chairing the organizing committee and upgrading
the pre-keynote experience.
* Laura Cornwell and friends: effective promotion, and for
streaming parts of the conference.
* Austin Pinto and other recording engineers.
* Derek Riemer: infrastructure and providing support.
* NV Access crew: another amazing keynote.
* Presenters: for diversifying the topics.

And most importantly, audience members who shared their passion
for NVDA and giving organizers countless encouragements. Hope the
event served as a healing moment for you.

Second, based on actual experience and post-event feedback, I
would like to suggest that organizers look into a different
platform for NVDACon 2021 and beyond. Of course we have to think
about accessibility and outreach, but mostly to help future
conference moderators perform their tasks more efficiently. Zoom
is a possibility, and Doug Lee apparently organized an Excel
spreadsheet with potential platforms. I would also like to
suggest that when a platform is chosen, organizers meet regularly
using that platform to familiarize themselves as to how to use it
effectively.

Lastly, NVDACon Twitter feed is still alive. The next post from
there will be done when recordings become available.

I announced this after the closing forum, but this is to affirm
that I will not be participating in NVDACon planning for next
year. However, if people want me to, I can give coaching for
presenters upon request – mostly to go over online presentation
etiquette, how to respond to comments, and refining small things
in content. Apart from that, I will be your biggest fan from the
distance.

May the NVDACon continue to bridge the community for years to come.

Cheers,

Joseph

Joseph S. Lee

Student (communication studies), California State University, Los
Angeles

Code contributor and add-ons reviewer, NVDA screen reader project

Certified NVDA Expert, 2019

Founding chair, NVDA Users and Developers Conference (NVDACon –
2014 to 2016

On Dec 7, 2020, at 7:48 PM, Robert Hänggi <aarjay.robert@...> wrote:

Hi

Again, for reference, here is the pricing page of zoom:
https://zoom.us/pricing

I'm horrified when I check the feature we want and read the total cost.
I've read comments like "If they can't afford $10 per month, I will
gladly pay it from my own pocket".
This is very misleading. The minimum plan for our purpose costs $200 per year
The ideal plan (with phone calling, enough participants, live
streaming, multiple rooms, replays, better website integration and so
on) amounts to $1200 per year.

Some people said that we could use their accounts.
I don't know how you feel about it but I don't like the thought to be
dependant on others.
Nonetheless, we will check out the options and Doug lee (as Joseph
said) is composing a workbook with all the possibilities.

Cheers
Robert

On 08/12/2020, Lino Morales <linomorales001@...> wrote:

Yes you are correct James. I wonder between NV Access and

individuals/non for proffit orgs around the world with some promotion

etc. could raise money to use Zoom? If the NVDA community worldwide
starts something like this now that would be great. Yeah I know many
folks can't donate, but if we get said orgs for the blind on board that
would be a running start.

On 12/7/2020 6:27 PM, James Teh wrote:

I'd respectfully point out that Zoom is not free - it actually ends up
being quite costly for something like NVDACon - so it's not simply a
matter of popular opinion. Any proposal to move to an alternative
platform also needs to consider how that platform will be funded
and/or set up.

Jamie

On Tue, Dec 8, 2020 at 9:08 AM Lino Morales <linomorales001@...
<mailto:linomorales001@...>> wrote:

I didn't partake in the Con this year, however I vote for Zoom for
2021 and later. As you stated Joseph the hosts have more control.
I'm been crowing about getting Zoom for the past couple of years
pree pandemic. Glad it went well and hope to hear the recordings
soon.

On 12/7/2020 4:39 PM, Joseph Lee wrote:

Hi all,

First, it was great to see many people at NVDACon 2020. I
personally consider this a successful event despite the pandemic
and its effects. Although we had issues in the beginning, it ran
smoothly, especially as the post-keynote QnA was very extensive.

A few thank you’s:

* Robert Hangi: chairing the organizing committee and upgrading
the pre-keynote experience.
* Laura Cornwell and friends: effective promotion, and for
streaming parts of the conference.
* Austin Pinto and other recording engineers.
* Derek Riemer: infrastructure and providing support.
* NV Access crew: another amazing keynote.
* Presenters: for diversifying the topics.

And most importantly, audience members who shared their passion
for NVDA and giving organizers countless encouragements. Hope the
event served as a healing moment for you.

Second, based on actual experience and post-event feedback, I
would like to suggest that organizers look into a different
platform for NVDACon 2021 and beyond. Of course we have to think
about accessibility and outreach, but mostly to help future
conference moderators perform their tasks more efficiently. Zoom
is a possibility, and Doug Lee apparently organized an Excel
spreadsheet with potential platforms. I would also like to
suggest that when a platform is chosen, organizers meet regularly
using that platform to familiarize themselves as to how to use it
effectively.

Lastly, NVDACon Twitter feed is still alive. The next post from
there will be done when recordings become available.

I announced this after the closing forum, but this is to affirm
that I will not be participating in NVDACon planning for next
year. However, if people want me to, I can give coaching for
presenters upon request – mostly to go over online presentation
etiquette, how to respond to comments, and refining small things
in content. Apart from that, I will be your biggest fan from the
distance.

May the NVDACon continue to bridge the community for years to come.

Cheers,

Joseph

Joseph S. Lee

Student (communication studies), California State University, Los
Angeles

Code contributor and add-ons reviewer, NVDA screen reader project

Certified NVDA Expert, 2019

Founding chair, NVDA Users and Developers Conference (NVDACon –
2014 to 2016

Congratulations Joseph, Robert, Derek, Austin, Laura and everyone involved
on running a very successful and well received NVDACon, great job!

Joseph, you will be missed, but you have setup a great foundation and got a
talented group of people holding the fort so enjoy your time away from
running the show next year!

In terms of cost, NV Access are certainly willing to contribute financially
to whatever solution is going to work best for the conference organisers
and participants - although of course we need to be able to justify the
expense as well, and it may be that approaching a particular platform about
sponsorship is worthwhile.

For now, congratulations again on a great conference, and I look forward to
hearing the recordings!

Quentin.

On Tue, Dec 8, 2020 at 11:48 AM Robert Hänggi <aarjay.robert@...>
wrote:

Hi

Again, for reference, here is the pricing page of zoom:
https://zoom.us/pricing

I'm horrified when I check the feature we want and read the total cost.
I've read comments like "If they can't afford $10 per month, I will
gladly pay it from my own pocket".
This is very misleading. The minimum plan for our purpose costs $200 per
year
The ideal plan (with phone calling, enough participants, live
streaming, multiple rooms, replays, better website integration and so
on) amounts to $1200 per year.

Some people said that we could use their accounts.
I don't know how you feel about it but I don't like the thought to be
dependant on others.
Nonetheless, we will check out the options and Doug lee (as Joseph
said) is composing a workbook with all the possibilities.

Cheers
Robert

On 08/12/2020, Lino Morales <linomorales001@...> wrote:

Yes you are correct James. I wonder between NV Access and
individuals/non for proffit orgs around the world with some promotion
etc. could raise money to use Zoom? If the NVDA community worldwide
starts something like this now that would be great. Yeah I know many
folks can't donate, but if we get said orgs for the blind on board that
would be a running start.

On 12/7/2020 6:27 PM, James Teh wrote:

I'd respectfully point out that Zoom is not free - it actually ends up
being quite costly for something like NVDACon - so it's not simply a
matter of popular opinion. Any proposal to move to an alternative
platform also needs to consider how that platform will be funded
and/or set up.

Jamie

On Tue, Dec 8, 2020 at 9:08 AM Lino Morales <linomorales001@...
<mailto:linomorales001@...>> wrote:

I didn't partake in the Con this year, however I vote for Zoom for
2021 and later. As you stated Joseph the hosts have more control.
I'm been crowing about getting Zoom for the past couple of years
pree pandemic. Glad it went well and hope to hear the recordings
soon.

On 12/7/2020 4:39 PM, Joseph Lee wrote:

Hi all,

First, it was great to see many people at NVDACon 2020. I
personally consider this a successful event despite the pandemic
and its effects. Although we had issues in the beginning, it ran
smoothly, especially as the post-keynote QnA was very extensive.

A few thank you’s:

* Robert Hangi: chairing the organizing committee and upgrading
the pre-keynote experience.
* Laura Cornwell and friends: effective promotion, and for
streaming parts of the conference.
* Austin Pinto and other recording engineers.
* Derek Riemer: infrastructure and providing support.
* NV Access crew: another amazing keynote.
* Presenters: for diversifying the topics.

And most importantly, audience members who shared their passion
for NVDA and giving organizers countless encouragements. Hope the
event served as a healing moment for you.

Second, based on actual experience and post-event feedback, I
would like to suggest that organizers look into a different
platform for NVDACon 2021 and beyond. Of course we have to think
about accessibility and outreach, but mostly to help future
conference moderators perform their tasks more efficiently. Zoom
is a possibility, and Doug Lee apparently organized an Excel
spreadsheet with potential platforms. I would also like to
suggest that when a platform is chosen, organizers meet regularly
using that platform to familiarize themselves as to how to use it
effectively.

Lastly, NVDACon Twitter feed is still alive. The next post from
there will be done when recordings become available.

I announced this after the closing forum, but this is to affirm
that I will not be participating in NVDACon planning for next
year. However, if people want me to, I can give coaching for
presenters upon request – mostly to go over online presentation
etiquette, how to respond to comments, and refining small things
in content. Apart from that, I will be your biggest fan from the
distance.

May the NVDACon continue to bridge the community for years to
come.

Cheers,

Joseph

Joseph S. Lee

Student (communication studies), California State University, Los
Angeles

Code contributor and add-ons reviewer, NVDA screen reader project

Certified NVDA Expert, 2019

Founding chair, NVDA Users and Developers Conference (NVDACon –
2014 to 2016

--
Quentin Christensen
Training and Support Manager

Web: www.nvaccess.org
Training: https://www.nvaccess.org/shop/
Certification: https://certification.nvaccess.org/
User group: https://nvda.groups.io/g/nvda
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/NVAccess
Twitter: @NVAccess <https://twitter.com/NVAccess>

Thanks Quentin for the kind words

I must say it was such a pleasure and so inspirational to work with
you one to one that I didn't mind staying up wide into the small hours
(like now where it is 2:00 am here).
Especially in the first weeks when I felt like doing a one-man show
and reaching out to you was soothing to my mental balance.
Our "conspiracy" produced some great ideas of which not all could make
it into the conference as yet but they are burnt into our sub
conscience (or just the email archive) so that they could pop up any
time again.
I'm looking forward to work with you again in whichever role that might be.
Cheers
Robert

On 08/12/2020, Quentin Christensen <quentin@...> wrote:

Congratulations Joseph, Robert, Derek, Austin, Laura and everyone involved
on running a very successful and well received NVDACon, great job!

Joseph, you will be missed, but you have setup a great foundation and got a
talented group of people holding the fort so enjoy your time away from
running the show next year!

In terms of cost, NV Access are certainly willing to contribute financially
to whatever solution is going to work best for the conference organisers
and participants - although of course we need to be able to justify the
expense as well, and it may be that approaching a particular platform about
sponsorship is worthwhile.

For now, congratulations again on a great conference, and I look forward to
hearing the recordings!

Quentin.

On Tue, Dec 8, 2020 at 11:48 AM Robert Hänggi <aarjay.robert@...>
wrote:

Hi

Again, for reference, here is the pricing page of zoom:
https://zoom.us/pricing

I'm horrified when I check the feature we want and read the total cost.
I've read comments like "If they can't afford $10 per month, I will
gladly pay it from my own pocket".
This is very misleading. The minimum plan for our purpose costs $200 per
year
The ideal plan (with phone calling, enough participants, live
streaming, multiple rooms, replays, better website integration and so
on) amounts to $1200 per year.

Some people said that we could use their accounts.
I don't know how you feel about it but I don't like the thought to be
dependant on others.
Nonetheless, we will check out the options and Doug lee (as Joseph
said) is composing a workbook with all the possibilities.

Cheers
Robert

On 08/12/2020, Lino Morales <linomorales001@...> wrote:

Yes you are correct James. I wonder between NV Access and
individuals/non for proffit orgs around the world with some promotion
etc. could raise money to use Zoom? If the NVDA community worldwide
starts something like this now that would be great. Yeah I know many
folks can't donate, but if we get said orgs for the blind on board that
would be a running start.

On 12/7/2020 6:27 PM, James Teh wrote:

I'd respectfully point out that Zoom is not free - it actually ends up
being quite costly for something like NVDACon - so it's not simply a
matter of popular opinion. Any proposal to move to an alternative
platform also needs to consider how that platform will be funded
and/or set up.

Jamie

On Tue, Dec 8, 2020 at 9:08 AM Lino Morales <linomorales001@...
<mailto:linomorales001@...>> wrote:

    I didn't partake in the Con this year, however I vote for Zoom for
    2021 and later. As you stated Joseph the hosts have more control.
    I'm been crowing about getting Zoom for the past couple of years
    pree pandemic. Glad it went well and hope to hear the recordings
soon.

    On 12/7/2020 4:39 PM, Joseph Lee wrote:

    Hi all,

    First, it was great to see many people at NVDACon 2020. I
    personally consider this a successful event despite the pandemic
    and its effects. Although we had issues in the beginning, it ran
    smoothly, especially as the post-keynote QnA was very extensive.

    A few thank you’s:

      * Robert Hangi: chairing the organizing committee and upgrading
        the pre-keynote experience.
      * Laura Cornwell and friends: effective promotion, and for
        streaming parts of the conference.
      * Austin Pinto and other recording engineers.
      * Derek Riemer: infrastructure and providing support.
      * NV Access crew: another amazing keynote.
      * Presenters: for diversifying the topics.

    And most importantly, audience members who shared their passion
    for NVDA and giving organizers countless encouragements. Hope the
    event served as a healing moment for you.

    Second, based on actual experience and post-event feedback, I
    would like to suggest that organizers look into a different
    platform for NVDACon 2021 and beyond. Of course we have to think
    about accessibility and outreach, but mostly to help future
    conference moderators perform their tasks more efficiently. Zoom
    is a possibility, and Doug Lee apparently organized an Excel
    spreadsheet with potential platforms. I would also like to
    suggest that when a platform is chosen, organizers meet regularly
    using that platform to familiarize themselves as to how to use it
    effectively.

    Lastly, NVDACon Twitter feed is still alive. The next post from
    there will be done when recordings become available.

    I announced this after the closing forum, but this is to affirm
    that I will not be participating in NVDACon planning for next
    year. However, if people want me to, I can give coaching for
    presenters upon request – mostly to go over online presentation
    etiquette, how to respond to comments, and refining small things
    in content. Apart from that, I will be your biggest fan from the
    distance.

    May the NVDACon continue to bridge the community for years to
come.

    Cheers,

    Joseph

    Joseph S. Lee

    Student (communication studies), California State University, Los
    Angeles

    Code contributor and add-ons reviewer, NVDA screen reader project

    Certified NVDA Expert, 2019

    Founding chair, NVDA Users and Developers Conference (NVDACon –
    2014 to 2016

--
Quentin Christensen
Training and Support Manager

Web: www.nvaccess.org
Training: https://www.nvaccess.org/shop/
Certification: https://certification.nvaccess.org/
User group: https://nvda.groups.io/g/nvda
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/NVAccess
Twitter: @NVAccess <https://twitter.com/NVAccess>

Thanks Quentin for the kind words

I must say it was such a pleasure and so inspirational to work with

you one to one that I didn't mind staying up wide into the small hours

(like now where it is 2:00 am here).

Especially in the first weeks when I felt like doing a one-man show

and reaching out to you was soothing to my mental balance.

Our "conspiracy" produced some great ideas of which not all could make

it into the conference as yet but they are burnt into our sub

conscience (or just the email archive) so that they could pop up any

time again.

I'm looking forward to work with you again in whichever role that might be.

Cheers

Robert

On 08/12/2020, Quentin Christensen <quentin@...> wrote:

Congratulations Joseph, Robert, Derek, Austin, Laura and everyone involved

on running a very successful and well received NVDACon, great job!

Joseph, you will be missed, but you have setup a great foundation and got a

talented group of people holding the fort so enjoy your time away from

running the show next year!

In terms of cost, NV Access are certainly willing to contribute financially

to whatever solution is going to work best for the conference organisers

and participants - although of course we need to be able to justify the

expense as well, and it may be that approaching a particular platform about

sponsorship is worthwhile.

For now, congratulations again on a great conference, and I look forward to

hearing the recordings!

Quentin.

On Tue, Dec 8, 2020 at 11:48 AM Robert Hänggi <aarjay.robert@...>

wrote:

Hi

Again, for reference, here is the pricing page of zoom:

https://zoom.us/pricing

I'm horrified when I check the feature we want and read the total cost.

I've read comments like "If they can't afford $10 per month, I will

gladly pay it from my own pocket".

This is very misleading. The minimum plan for our purpose costs $200 per

year

The ideal plan (with phone calling, enough participants, live

streaming, multiple rooms, replays, better website integration and so

on) amounts to $1200 per year.

Some people said that we could use their accounts.

I don't know how you feel about it but I don't like the thought to be

dependant on others.

Nonetheless, we will check out the options and Doug lee (as Joseph

said) is composing a workbook with all the possibilities.

Cheers

Robert

On 08/12/2020, Lino Morales <linomorales001@...> wrote:

Yes you are correct James. I wonder between NV Access and

individuals/non for proffit orgs around the world with some promotion

etc. could raise money to use Zoom? If the NVDA community worldwide

starts something like this now that would be great. Yeah I know many

folks can't donate, but if we get said orgs for the blind on board that

would be a running start.

On 12/7/2020 6:27 PM, James Teh wrote:

I'd respectfully point out that Zoom is not free - it actually ends up

being quite costly for something like NVDACon - so it's not simply a

matter of popular opinion. Any proposal to move to an alternative

platform also needs to consider how that platform will be funded

and/or set up.

Jamie

On Tue, Dec 8, 2020 at 9:08 AM Lino Morales <linomorales001@...

<mailto:linomorales001@...>> wrote:

    I didn't partake in the Con this year, however I vote for Zoom for

    2021 and later. As you stated Joseph the hosts have more control.

    I'm been crowing about getting Zoom for the past couple of years

    pree pandemic. Glad it went well and hope to hear the recordings

soon.

    On 12/7/2020 4:39 PM, Joseph Lee wrote:

    Hi all,

    First, it was great to see many people at NVDACon 2020. I

    personally consider this a successful event despite the pandemic

    and its effects. Although we had issues in the beginning, it ran

    smoothly, especially as the post-keynote QnA was very extensive.

    A few thank you’s:

      * Robert Hangi: chairing the organizing committee and upgrading

        the pre-keynote experience.

      * Laura Cornwell and friends: effective promotion, and for

        streaming parts of the conference.

      * Austin Pinto and other recording engineers.

      * Derek Riemer: infrastructure and providing support.

      * NV Access crew: another amazing keynote.

      * Presenters: for diversifying the topics.

    And most importantly, audience members who shared their passion

    for NVDA and giving organizers countless encouragements. Hope the

    event served as a healing moment for you.

    Second, based on actual experience and post-event feedback, I

    would like to suggest that organizers look into a different

    platform for NVDACon 2021 and beyond. Of course we have to think

    about accessibility and outreach, but mostly to help future

    conference moderators perform their tasks more efficiently. Zoom

    is a possibility, and Doug Lee apparently organized an Excel

    spreadsheet with potential platforms. I would also like to

    suggest that when a platform is chosen, organizers meet regularly

    using that platform to familiarize themselves as to how to use it

    effectively.

    Lastly, NVDACon Twitter feed is still alive. The next post from

    there will be done when recordings become available.

    I announced this after the closing forum, but this is to affirm

    that I will not be participating in NVDACon planning for next

    year. However, if people want me to, I can give coaching for

    presenters upon request – mostly to go over online presentation

    etiquette, how to respond to comments, and refining small things

    in content. Apart from that, I will be your biggest fan from the

    distance.

    May the NVDACon continue to bridge the community for years to

come.

    Cheers,

    Joseph

    Joseph S. Lee

    Student (communication studies), California State University, Los

    Angeles

    Code contributor and add-ons reviewer, NVDA screen reader project

    Certified NVDA Expert, 2019

    Founding chair, NVDA Users and Developers Conference (NVDACon –

    2014 to 2016

--

Quentin Christensen

Training and Support Manager

Web: www.nvaccess.org

Training: https://www.nvaccess.org/shop/

Certification: https://certification.nvaccess.org/

User group: https://nvda.groups.io/g/nvda

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/NVAccess

Twitter: @NVAccess <https://twitter.com/NVAccess>

Am 08.12.2020 um 07:36 schrieb Robert Hänggi <aarjay.robert@...>:

On 08/12/2020, Adriani Botez <adriani.botez@...> wrote:

Dear all,



it was a pleasure to work with all of you together also this year,
especially Robert, Laura, Austin and Derek really great job in organizing it
this year. Even though I couldn’t participate in organizational meetings and
so on, I tried to follow the conversations and to help when was possible. I
have the feeling that the NVDACon team gets stronger and grows in a
sustainable way which makes me really lucky to see.



Regarding zoom, I explored this opportunity last year and had two long
conversations with the Zoom people trying to negociate a meaningful plan
which is teylored for NVDACon. I ended up at about 145 USD per month, if we
include full recording features, 10 moderator accounts, full webinar
features and so on. My conclusion was as follows:

* The best way would be to rent a Zoom pro account from an organization
which already uses it regularly (cheapest way I would say)

Exactly so although I don't like the affiliation, dependants and
overall problems on coordination that it is involved.

* Zoom doesn’t offer weekend plans
* We need a backup through an NGO to get discount
* We need an account for NVDACon to begin fund raising throughout the
community (i.e. a paypal account)

Although we have a donate button, I wonder if there were ever payments
made through it to the NVDA project.
All in all, it needs much more than a button. We need funnels, opt-ins
and most important a mailing list (gimp like) to bind users
permanently.
This isn't just for fund raising but also to extract valid data about
the regular emails that we send (were they opened, were the links
clicked etc).
Apart from that, it is just convenient to set up emails beforehand and
reminders (e.g. for the conference start) go out automatically.

* We need to think about an alternative conference format, moderating a Zoom
conference which takes three days long is really really not an easy job,
especially if we want to avoid what happened during Opening forum this
year.

As a side-note, did someone ever attend a zoom meeting like our forums
where any user can speak at any time?
The meetings that I've attended were all just directed by a single
host and participants had to raise their hands to speak.

Let me know your thoughts and I can start negociations with them again.

I will also try to find a solution for getting a Zoom pro account to test a
one day conference, maybe in February.



Doug Lee and me we’re preparing an overview of the platforms out there and
will try to find what the best is for NVDACon.

The features that go into the workbook are not a two-men decision, are they?
Because that's how one could interpret this sentence.

Best
Robert

Best regards

Adriani





Von: intl@NVDACon.groups.io <intl@NVDACon.groups.io> Im Auftrag von Iván
Novegil via groups.io
Gesendet: Dienstag, 8. Dezember 2020 03:18
An: intl@NVDACon.groups.io
Betreff: Re: [NVDACon] NVDACon 2020 post-mortem analysis: success, moving to
a different platform, Twitter feed



Hi.



According to what I've seen, Zoom can be paid month-by-month, but the web
offers anual plans by default. Anual prices are usually equal to 10 months.

Additionally, for nonprofit organizations, at least here in spain, zoom
seems to offer a 50% discount on all plans, 1 plan request per organization
per year, via Techsoup. As Techsoup is an international company, I think
similar offers would be available in other countries.

I don't think moving from TeamTalk is a fundamental need for conferences
such as NVDACon or our local meeting, but to be honest some people was
complaining about TeamTalk also during our last conference, held in last
month; however there wasn't such a strong debate as in NVDACon's openning
forum.



Regards.



Congratulations on all your work. Regards.

Iván Novegil Cancelas
Editor
ivan.novegil@... <mailto:ivan.novegil@...>
<https://certification.nvaccess.org/>


Comunidad hispanohablante de NVDA | Proyecto NVDA.es
- www.NVDA.es <https://nvda.es>
- @nvda_es <https://twitter.com/nvda_es>

Usuario do NVDA en galego

***Esta mensaxe e/ou os seus adxuntos están dirixidos ao seu destinatario e
poden conter información privilexiada ou confidencial. A utilización, copia
ou divulgación dos mesmos por parte de alguén diferente do destinatario
mencionado non están permitidas sen autorización. Se recibiu esta mensaxe
por erro pregámoslle o comunique por esta mesma vía e a destrúa.***

O 08/12/2020 á(s) 2:20, Robert Hänggi escribiu:

Thanks Quentin for the kind words

I must say it was such a pleasure and so inspirational to work with
you one to one that I didn't mind staying up wide into the small hours
(like now where it is 2:00 am here).
Especially in the first weeks when I felt like doing a one-man show
and reaching out to you was soothing to my mental balance.
Our "conspiracy" produced some great ideas of which not all could make
it into the conference as yet but they are burnt into our sub
conscience (or just the email archive) so that they could pop up any
time again.
I'm looking forward to work with you again in whichever role that might be.
Cheers
Robert

On 08/12/2020, Quentin Christensen <mailto:quentin@...>
<quentin@...> wrote:

Congratulations Joseph, Robert, Derek, Austin, Laura and everyone involved
on running a very successful and well received NVDACon, great job!

Joseph, you will be missed, but you have setup a great foundation and got a
talented group of people holding the fort so enjoy your time away from
running the show next year!

In terms of cost, NV Access are certainly willing to contribute financially
to whatever solution is going to work best for the conference organisers
and participants - although of course we need to be able to justify the
expense as well, and it may be that approaching a particular platform about
sponsorship is worthwhile.

For now, congratulations again on a great conference, and I look forward to
hearing the recordings!

Quentin.

On Tue, Dec 8, 2020 at 11:48 AM Robert Hänggi
<mailto:aarjay.robert@...> <aarjay.robert@...>
wrote:


Hi

Again, for reference, here is the pricing page of zoom:
https://zoom.us/pricing

I'm horrified when I check the feature we want and read the total cost.
I've read comments like "If they can't afford $10 per month, I will
gladly pay it from my own pocket".
This is very misleading. The minimum plan for our purpose costs $200 per
year
The ideal plan (with phone calling, enough participants, live
streaming, multiple rooms, replays, better website integration and so
on) amounts to $1200 per year.

Some people said that we could use their accounts.
I don't know how you feel about it but I don't like the thought to be
dependant on others.
Nonetheless, we will check out the options and Doug lee (as Joseph
said) is composing a workbook with all the possibilities.

Cheers
Robert

On 08/12/2020, Lino Morales <mailto:linomorales001@...>
<linomorales001@...> wrote:

Yes you are correct James. I wonder between NV Access and
individuals/non for proffit orgs around the world with some promotion
etc. could raise money to use Zoom? If the NVDA community worldwide
starts something like this now that would be great. Yeah I know many
folks can't donate, but if we get said orgs for the blind on board that
would be a running start.

On 12/7/2020 6:27 PM, James Teh wrote:

I'd respectfully point out that Zoom is not free - it actually ends up
being quite costly for something like NVDACon - so it's not simply a
matter of popular opinion. Any proposal to move to an alternative
platform also needs to consider how that platform will be funded
and/or set up.

Jamie

On Tue, Dec 8, 2020 at 9:08 AM Lino Morales <linomorales001@...
<mailto:linomorales001@...>
<mailto:linomorales001@...> <mailto:linomorales001@...>>
wrote:

I didn't partake in the Con this year, however I vote for Zoom for
2021 and later. As you stated Joseph the hosts have more control.
I'm been crowing about getting Zoom for the past couple of years
pree pandemic. Glad it went well and hope to hear the recordings
soon.

On 12/7/2020 4:39 PM, Joseph Lee wrote:


Hi all,

First, it was great to see many people at NVDACon 2020. I
personally consider this a successful event despite the pandemic
and its effects. Although we had issues in the beginning, it ran
smoothly, especially as the post-keynote QnA was very extensive.

A few thank you’s:

* Robert Hangi: chairing the organizing committee and upgrading
the pre-keynote experience.
* Laura Cornwell and friends: effective promotion, and for
streaming parts of the conference.
* Austin Pinto and other recording engineers.
* Derek Riemer: infrastructure and providing support.
* NV Access crew: another amazing keynote.
* Presenters: for diversifying the topics.

And most importantly, audience members who shared their passion
for NVDA and giving organizers countless encouragements. Hope the
event served as a healing moment for you.

Second, based on actual experience and post-event feedback, I
would like to suggest that organizers look into a different
platform for NVDACon 2021 and beyond. Of course we have to think
about accessibility and outreach, but mostly to help future
conference moderators perform their tasks more efficiently. Zoom
is a possibility, and Doug Lee apparently organized an Excel
spreadsheet with potential platforms. I would also like to
suggest that when a platform is chosen, organizers meet regularly
using that platform to familiarize themselves as to how to use it
effectively.

Lastly, NVDACon Twitter feed is still alive. The next post from
there will be done when recordings become available.

I announced this after the closing forum, but this is to affirm
that I will not be participating in NVDACon planning for next
year. However, if people want me to, I can give coaching for
presenters upon request – mostly to go over online presentation
etiquette, how to respond to comments, and refining small things
in content. Apart from that, I will be your biggest fan from the
distance.

May the NVDACon continue to bridge the community for years to
come.

Cheers,

Joseph

Joseph S. Lee

Student (communication studies), California State University, Los
Angeles

Code contributor and add-ons reviewer, NVDA screen reader project

Certified NVDA Expert, 2019

Founding chair, NVDA Users and Developers Conference (NVDACon –
2014 to 2016



















--
Quentin Christensen
Training and Support Manager

Web: www.nvaccess.org <http://www.nvaccess.org>
Training: https://www.nvaccess.org/shop/
Certification: https://certification.nvaccess.org/
User group: https://nvda.groups.io/g/nvda
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/NVAccess
Twitter: @NVAccess <https://twitter.com/NVAccess>
<https://twitter.com/NVAccess>

Dear all,

 

it was a pleasure to work with all of you together also this year, especially Robert, Laura, Austin and Derek really great job in organizing it this year. Even though I couldn’t participate in organizational meetings and so on, I tried to follow the conversations and to help when was possible. I have the feeling that the NVDACon team gets stronger and grows in a sustainable way which makes me really lucky to see.

 

Regarding zoom, I explored this opportunity last year and had two long conversations with the Zoom people trying to negociate a meaningful plan which is teylored for NVDACon. I ended up at about 145 USD per month, if we include full recording features, 10 moderator accounts, full webinar features and so on. My conclusion was as follows:

• The best way would be to rent a Zoom pro account from an organization which already uses it regularly (cheapest way I would say)
• Zoom doesn’t offer weekend plans
• We need a backup through an NGO to get discount
• We need an account for NVDACon to begin fund raising throughout the community (i.e. a paypal account)
• We need to think about an alternative conference format, moderating a Zoom conference which takes three days long is really really not an easy job, especially if we want to avoid what happened during Opening forum this year.

 

Let me know your thoughts and I can start negociations with them again.

I will also try to find a solution for getting a Zoom pro account to test a one day conference, maybe in February.

 

Doug Lee and me we’re preparing an overview of the platforms out there and will try to find what the best is for NVDACon.

 

Best regards

Adriani

 

 

Von: intl@NVDACon.groups.io <intl@NVDACon.groups.io> Im Auftrag von Iván Novegil via groups.io
Gesendet: Dienstag, 8. Dezember 2020 03:18
An: intl@NVDACon.groups.io
Betreff: Re: [NVDACon] NVDACon 2020 post-mortem analysis: success, moving to a different platform, Twitter feed

 

Hi.

 

According to what I've seen, Zoom can be paid month-by-month, but the web offers anual plans by default. Anual prices are usually equal to 10 months.

Additionally, for nonprofit organizations, at least here in spain, zoom seems to offer a 50% discount on all plans, 1 plan request per organization per year, via Techsoup. As Techsoup is an international company, I think similar offers would be available in other countries.

I don't think moving from TeamTalk is a fundamental need for conferences such as NVDACon or our local meeting, but to be honest some people was complaining about TeamTalk also during our last conference, held in last month; however there wasn't such a strong debate as in NVDACon's openning forum.

 

Regards.

 

Congratulations on all your work. Regards.

Iván Novegil Cancelas
Editor
ivan.novegil@...



Comunidad hispanohablante de NVDA | Proyecto NVDA.es
- www.NVDA.es
- @nvda_es

Usuario do NVDA en galego

***Esta mensaxe e/ou os seus adxuntos están dirixidos ao seu destinatario e poden conter información privilexiada ou confidencial. A utilización, copia ou divulgación dos mesmos por parte de alguén diferente do destinatario mencionado non están permitidas sen autorización. Se recibiu esta mensaxe por erro pregámoslle o comunique por esta mesma vía e a destrúa.***

O 08/12/2020 á(s) 2:20, Robert Hänggi escribiu:

Thanks Quentin for the kind words

I must say it was such a pleasure and so inspirational to work with

you one to one that I didn't mind staying up wide into the small hours

(like now where it is 2:00 am here).

Especially in the first weeks when I felt like doing a one-man show

and reaching out to you was soothing to my mental balance.

Our "conspiracy" produced some great ideas of which not all could make

it into the conference as yet but they are burnt into our sub

conscience (or just the email archive) so that they could pop up any

time again.

I'm looking forward to work with you again in whichever role that might be.

Cheers

Robert

On 08/12/2020, Quentin Christensen <quentin@...> wrote:

Congratulations Joseph, Robert, Derek, Austin, Laura and everyone involved

on running a very successful and well received NVDACon, great job!

Joseph, you will be missed, but you have setup a great foundation and got a

talented group of people holding the fort so enjoy your time away from

running the show next year!

In terms of cost, NV Access are certainly willing to contribute financially

to whatever solution is going to work best for the conference organisers

and participants - although of course we need to be able to justify the

expense as well, and it may be that approaching a particular platform about

sponsorship is worthwhile.

For now, congratulations again on a great conference, and I look forward to

hearing the recordings!

Quentin.

On Tue, Dec 8, 2020 at 11:48 AM Robert Hänggi <aarjay.robert@...>

wrote:

Hi

Again, for reference, here is the pricing page of zoom:

https://zoom.us/pricing

I'm horrified when I check the feature we want and read the total cost.

I've read comments like "If they can't afford $10 per month, I will

gladly pay it from my own pocket".

This is very misleading. The minimum plan for our purpose costs $200 per

year

The ideal plan (with phone calling, enough participants, live

streaming, multiple rooms, replays, better website integration and so

on) amounts to $1200 per year.

Some people said that we could use their accounts.

I don't know how you feel about it but I don't like the thought to be

dependant on others.

Nonetheless, we will check out the options and Doug lee (as Joseph

said) is composing a workbook with all the possibilities.

Cheers

Robert

On 08/12/2020, Lino Morales <linomorales001@...> wrote:

Yes you are correct James. I wonder between NV Access and

individuals/non for proffit orgs around the world with some promotion

etc. could raise money to use Zoom? If the NVDA community worldwide

starts something like this now that would be great. Yeah I know many

folks can't donate, but if we get said orgs for the blind on board that

would be a running start.

On 12/7/2020 6:27 PM, James Teh wrote:

I'd respectfully point out that Zoom is not free - it actually ends up

being quite costly for something like NVDACon - so it's not simply a

matter of popular opinion. Any proposal to move to an alternative

platform also needs to consider how that platform will be funded

and/or set up.

Jamie

On Tue, Dec 8, 2020 at 9:08 AM Lino Morales <linomorales001@...

<mailto:linomorales001@...>> wrote:

    I didn't partake in the Con this year, however I vote for Zoom for

    2021 and later. As you stated Joseph the hosts have more control.

    I'm been crowing about getting Zoom for the past couple of years

    pree pandemic. Glad it went well and hope to hear the recordings

soon.

    On 12/7/2020 4:39 PM, Joseph Lee wrote:

    Hi all,

    First, it was great to see many people at NVDACon 2020. I

    personally consider this a successful event despite the pandemic

    and its effects. Although we had issues in the beginning, it ran

    smoothly, especially as the post-keynote QnA was very extensive.

    A few thank you’s:

      * Robert Hangi: chairing the organizing committee and upgrading

        the pre-keynote experience.

      * Laura Cornwell and friends: effective promotion, and for

        streaming parts of the conference.

      * Austin Pinto and other recording engineers.

      * Derek Riemer: infrastructure and providing support.

      * NV Access crew: another amazing keynote.

      * Presenters: for diversifying the topics.

    And most importantly, audience members who shared their passion

    for NVDA and giving organizers countless encouragements. Hope the

    event served as a healing moment for you.

    Second, based on actual experience and post-event feedback, I

    would like to suggest that organizers look into a different

    platform for NVDACon 2021 and beyond. Of course we have to think

    about accessibility and outreach, but mostly to help future

    conference moderators perform their tasks more efficiently. Zoom

    is a possibility, and Doug Lee apparently organized an Excel

    spreadsheet with potential platforms. I would also like to

    suggest that when a platform is chosen, organizers meet regularly

    using that platform to familiarize themselves as to how to use it

    effectively.

    Lastly, NVDACon Twitter feed is still alive. The next post from

    there will be done when recordings become available.

    I announced this after the closing forum, but this is to affirm

    that I will not be participating in NVDACon planning for next

    year. However, if people want me to, I can give coaching for

    presenters upon request – mostly to go over online presentation

    etiquette, how to respond to comments, and refining small things

    in content. Apart from that, I will be your biggest fan from the

    distance.

    May the NVDACon continue to bridge the community for years to

come.

    Cheers,

    Joseph

    Joseph S. Lee

    Student (communication studies), California State University, Los

    Angeles

    Code contributor and add-ons reviewer, NVDA screen reader project

    Certified NVDA Expert, 2019

    Founding chair, NVDA Users and Developers Conference (NVDACon –

    2014 to 2016

--

Quentin Christensen

Training and Support Manager

Web: www.nvaccess.org

Training: https://www.nvaccess.org/shop/

Certification: https://certification.nvaccess.org/

User group: https://nvda.groups.io/g/nvda

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/NVAccess

Twitter: @NVAccess <https://twitter.com/NVAccess>

Hi,

Personally, I beg to differ: as much as TeamTalk was a useful platform, it is time to move away from a corner that we have dug ourselves into. NVDACon held during a pandemic has demonstrated a need to reach out to more audiences, and personally, I think TeamTalk is no longer a suitable platform for that. Accessibility and usability are major factors, but if the community wants to broaden the appeal of NVDACon, it should use a platform that allows more audience participation.

The era of “audio only” conference is coming to a close. Because the mainstream language is visual appeal, NVDACon should strive to achieve a balance between mainstream appeal and accessibility. More people will consume news about NVDA through online media, and it is time for NVDACon to respond to it more effectively, especially now that the pandemic has changed how people consume information (online presence will be more pervasive, and so will efforts to create content that appeals not only to a specific community, but also to wider audiences). Put in another way: if NVDA is a global movement, an event that serves as a gathering of this movement should strive to reach global audiences, and one way is learning from mainstream strategies.

Cheers,

Joseph

 

From: intl@NVDACon.groups.io <intl@NVDACon.groups.io> On Behalf Of lauracornwell
Sent: Tuesday, December 8, 2020 11:00 AM
To: intl@NVDACon.groups.io
Subject: Re: [NVDACon] NVDACon 2020 post-mortem analysis: success, moving to a different platform, Twitter feed

 

Thanks to all for all help this year. Now as for moving to zoomed I think that cost would be a big part of things we could reach more people maybe but  not having a plan for weekend use is not helpful this is why I think that staying with team talk would be better .