[Olpc-open] Why is G1G1 program ending?

[Sameer Verma]

Josh Cogliati wrote:
> Why is the give one get one program ending?  The
> program has brought millions of dollars of donations
> to OLPC.  As well it provides a good way to get
> hardware if you are undecided on developing for the
> machine.  Plus it provides a price ceiling on ebay
> sales.  So, why is the program ending?
>
> Josh Cogliati
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Olpc-open mailing list
> Olpc-open at lists.laptop.org
> http://lists.laptop.org/listinfo/olpc-open
>   

In many ways, G1G1 is a dilution for OLPC. If you take a look at the MCC
matrix which has Misson on one scale and Core Competency on the other
(http://www.cipher-sys.com/mcc_matrix.htm), in many ways G1G1 is a good
fit with the mission, but poor with the core competencies. OLPC has
rightfully partnered with Brightstar, but the models for G1G1 and its
bulk distribution are different. G1G1 is a B2C (business to consumer)
model, while the bulk delivery to countries is a B2B (or B2G) type
approach.

I am note sure if Brightstar was the right choice for B2C. Maybe they
are the right choice for B2B, but are being piggybacked for B2C.
OpenMoko had a similar problem in that FIC, the parent company for
OpenMoko, is accustomed to B2B and they gave little thought to their B2C
channel for the initial prototypes. The result was that the first batch
of orders simply fell apart.

I am sure G1G1 is very useful in furthering the mission of OLPC, but
they wil probably get more mileage with a much better and more
streamlined process from Brightstar or some other partner. If G1G1 is
sustained for too long, then the mission of OLPC gets weakened.
Remember, OLPC isn't really for the G1G1 masses.

Sameer

-- 
Dr. Sameer Verma, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Information Systems
San Francisco State University
San Francisco CA 94132 USA
http://verma.sfsu.edu/
http://opensource.sfsu.edu/