OSGeo.org -- Your Open Source Compass

Today, I want to talk a little about OSGeo.org's website.  OSGeo stands for Open Source Geospatial Foundation--in other words the website is much more than just your average site!  It is more of a gateway to people, software, conferences, and other open source goodness.

The first thing you will see is a list of current open source GIS news, including updates on open source software releases, conferences, meetings and other tidbits of information.  To its right you will see a list of aggregated GIS blogs which is extremely helpful so you don't have to go hunt down each blog individually.

Somewhat hidden in the lower right hand side/corner is a list of of open source GIS software, both new and old.  If you are unfamiliar with the names, simply click a link a short description provides any user with a basic description of what the software does, the project's status/incubation, and what type of files it can use.  The page is also available in multiple languages in the opposite left hand corner.

Another cool feature is downloading a bundle of open source GIS software (OSGeo Live) without having to install it!  The download can be loaded onto a USB or DVD and lets you sample the software.  There's also a video of the best of open source GIS software.