Lightning Talks
Schedule
Section titled “Schedule”When: Sunday 10:00-17:00 (shifts of 2 hours)
Where: H.2215 (Ferrer), check in at Infodesk K before shift
Team size: 1-2 heralds per shift
What is the Lightning Talks task?
Section titled “What is the Lightning Talks task?”Herald 15-minute presentations on any FOSS-related topic. Fast-paced format (4 talks per hour with 5-minute transitions). Your job: keep the schedule moving and make speakers feel welcome using the Lightning Talks Clock system.
Requirements
Section titled “Requirements”- Good command of English (spoken) - essential for introductions
- Confidence speaking in front of audiences
- Strict time management - 15 minutes per talk
- Calm under pressure - fast-paced environment
- Friendly demeanor - many first-time speakers
What you’ll be doingings** - use Lightning Talks Clock displayed on screen
Section titled “What you’ll be doingings** - use Lightning Talks Clock displayed on screen”- Coordinate with video team - ensure recording works
- Handle no-shows - wait 2-3 minutes, move to next talk
- Keep energy positive - welcome speakers warmly
Task workflow
Section titled “Task workflow”- Arrive at Infodesk K 20 minutes early
- Go to Lightning Talks room (H.2215)
- Introduce yourself to video volunteer and outgoing heralds
- Review upcoming speakers and pronunciations
- Familiarize yourself with Lightning Talks Clock system
- Introduce each speaker warmly (30 seconds)
- Monitor countdown timer
- Wrap up talks at 15 minutes politely but firmly
- Brief arriving speakers on timing and format
Common situations
Section titled “Common situations”- Introduce each speaker warmly (30 seconds)
- Monitor the Lightning Talks Clock countdown
- Wrap up talks at 15 minutes politely but firmly
- Brief arriving speakers on timing and format
Safety
Section titled “Safety”- Coordinate with video team on any issues
Safety
Section titled “Safety”- Stay calm - keep a level head when things don’t go as planned
- Be firm on timing - fairness to all speakers
- Speaker doesn’t show - wait 2-3 minutes, announce you’re moving to the next talk, note for staff in #volunteers-backstage:fosdem.org
- Speaker runs over - stand up, thank them, start applause, move on
- Technical issues - coordinate with video volunteer and via #video:fosdem.org
What to bring
Section titled “What to bring”- Orange volunteer t-shirt (provided at check-in)
- Water bottle - you’ll be talking a lot!
- Personal phone - for Matrix communication if needed
Why volunteer?
Section titled “Why volunteer?”Lightning Talks are a FOSDEM tradition showcasing the incredible diversity of FOSS projects and ideas. Enjoy the variety!