Build your own technology, experiences from an open-source developer

Today's computing landscape faces significant environmental and societal challenges, particularly in how software —including open-source software— is developed and used. This talk will explore pressing issues in software development, from our over-reliance on proprietary and cloud-based solutions to the inefficiencies and waste generated by bloated technology stacks.

Can we, as software developers, truly be independent if we depend on proprietary technology and development practices dictated by big tech? This talk will introduce NAP (New Amsterdam Platform), an open-source framework designed to help independent developers build energy-efficient and adaptable software across a wide range of applications, including art installations, products, robotics and web backends. Through real-world examples, we’ll showcase how NAP is currently being used in projects spanning from citizen science initiatives to art installations and commercial products.