Tim Starling wrote:
These official positions are intended for assisting external collaboration, and for honour and recognition, is that correct? Rather than authority and leadership?
Hmm, I think that's right, although to me the word "leadership" implies something natural and normal, not imposed, so yes I expect these people to embody qualities of leadership.
You didn't mention "communication", which for me is quite important. One problem we have been having more often lately is that it's hard to know who to talk to, if we want to know what's going on in some area. Having someone be the focal point is hopefully helpful in that regard.
Also, people will be allowed to deal with external organisations without an official title, on the same terms that they do now, won't they? That is to say, although certain official positions may carry the power to speak "on behalf of the foundation", that won't inhibit other people from doing various external activities in aid of the foundation, such as Thomas Koll's WikiReader publication, or Erik's collaboration with Kennisnet?
Absolutely.
--Jimbo