The use of free and open source software (FOSS) is becoming more and more common in both public and private sector IT systems. Our experience in this sector ranges from PR for security devices based around a hardened Linux core to open-source support services providers, both in the UK and abroad. We have worked with open-source collaboration and email systems and free software is a subject we have a strong interest in: we use FOSS products as part of our day-to-day PR work.
PR challenges facing open source software professionals
Based on the collaborative and community-driven nature of open-source software projects, the PR challenges for this sector can be quite unique.
Open-source projects are often developed and maintained by decentralised and diverse communities, so there is no single entity with complete control of messaging and checking security etc. This means that your PR team should focus on transparency in all communications about updates and that any security vulnerability disclosures are handled discreetly to avoid negative press becoming a complex PR issue.
Managing communication and expectations across the developers and users can be challenging too as those various contributors tend to speak different languages and have alternative priorities. PR teams may need to mediate conflicts but they should also balance messaging around those competing interests to maintain the neutrality of your open source software offering.
Too many people think open-source software is less reliable or secure. PR efforts need to emphasise the true benefits of open source so that yours can compete with commercial and proprietary software alternatives. Highlight the advantages of open source, such as cost savings, visibility, decentralisation and customisation.
What we can do for you
At our core, we believe that our success is all about putting you, our client, front and centre. We start by really getting to know your company, your team, and what makes you stand out from the crowd (your unique selling points or USPs). By immersing ourselves in your business and understanding your success metrics, we can create a customised PR plan that meets your specific needs.
We kick things off by reviewing your content, creating a pipeline of news based on your latest developments, and crafting and distributing press releases to core media targets. We're skilled at identifying and securing valuable editorial opportunities and creating those for you.
But that's not all! We're pros at landing high-profile interviews and profiles for your brand. We'll elevate your spokespeople as sought-after podcast guests and event speakers. We even handle the nitty-gritty details like crafting captivating speaker abstracts and expert sheets. Basically, we've got a diverse range of strategies to help your brand shine.
Sample media targets
DevOps, Computer Weekly, SDxCentral, Digital Journal, SD Times, Information Age, IT Pro, The Register, CODE Magazine, TechRadar and TechRepublic
Why Vitis PR
In developing our open source PR agency experience, we have worked with both technology and services providers. Having built relationships with both the trade press and online influencers, we are able to get the right kind of exposure for our clients.