Infodesk (virtual)
Schedule
Section titled “Schedule”When: Saturday 09:00-19:30, Sunday 08:30-18:30 (shifts of 2-3 hours)
Where: Online on Matrix - volunteer from anywhere in the world!
Channel: #infodesk:fosdem.org
Team size: 2-3 volunteers per shift
What is the Virtual Infodesk task?
Section titled “What is the Virtual Infodesk task?”Serve attendees via Matrix who are unable to reach physical infodesks, watching remotely from home, or need quick answers. Answer questions from “where is talk Y?” to “video stream isn’t working.” Extend FOSDEM’s reach to the global community!
Requirements
Section titled “Requirements”- Good knowledge of English (written) - main language for this role
- Other languages very useful (this is a multilingual conference)
- Clear, calm communication in writing
- Basic knowledge of FOSDEM and ULB campus (helpful, learned quickly)
- Matrix account (with account name saved in volunteering profile)
- Willingness to learn - soak up knowledge like a sponge
- Internet connection and ability to monitor chat during shift
What you’ll be doing
Section titled “What you’ll be doing”Answering questions:
- Answer visitor questions in #infodesk:fosdem.org
- Ask in backstage room if you don’t know answers
- Direct people to FOSDEM NAV for locations
- Help remote attendees navigate FOSDEM resources
Problem dispatching:
- Watch for problems in #fosdem:fosdem.org and #infodesk:fosdem.org
- Forward to appropriate channels:
- Video issues → #video:fosdem.org
- Facility issues → backstage coordination room
- WiFi/network → backstage coordination room
- Code of Conduct → staff immediately (via matrix or phone if urgent and you can - note this may cost money to call a Belgian number)
- Include details (room, building, time, description)
- Follow up to ensure resolution
Task workflow
Section titled “Task workflow”- Arrive at least 10 minutes early to your shift
- Join #infodesk:fosdem.org and check in
- Join backstage coordination room (link provided before event)
- Monitor both channels for questions and issues
- Answer questions or dispatch to appropriate teams
- Take brief breaks as needed
- Sign out at end of shift, providing handover to next volunteer
Safety
Section titled “Safety”- Be respectful - you represent FOSDEM to global audience
- Protect privacy - don’t share personal information
- Professional communication - keep responses helpful and courteous
- Escalate appropriately - know when to forward to staff
- Self-care - take breaks when needed during shift
- Ask for help - use backstage channel when unsure
What to bring
Section titled “What to bring”- Computer with internet - reliable connection for 2-3 hour shift
- Comfortable setup - you’ll be typing for a while
- Matrix account - set up and accessible before event
- Notes/resources - have FOSDEM info handy (nav.fosdem.org, schedule, etc.)
- Patience - some questions repeated, that’s okay
Common questions
Section titled “Common questions”- “Where is [room]?” → nav.fosdem.org
- “What time is [talk]?” → fosdem.org/schedule
- “Where are toilets/food?” → Marked on nav.fosdem.org
- “WiFi?” → Yes, details posted around campus
- “Medical?” → K building, 2nd floor (Sat-Sun 09:00-19:00)
- “Video stream not working” → Forward to #video:fosdem.org
- “T-shirt prices?” → €30 t-shirts, €60 hoodies
Why volunteer?
Section titled “Why volunteer?”- Help FOSDEM’s global remote community
- No physical presence required - volunteer from anywhere
- Meet fellow volunteers from around the world
- Essential role - thousands watch remotely
- Learn FOSDEM deeply through helping
- Be part of extending FOSDEM’s reach
- Flexible from home comfort
Questions? #volunteers:fosdem.org