I found this site on wikipedia because I was reading up on “open source data”, for a software project I’m working on. Where can I buy more beer?

In other words: hold a competition.

Set a rule that says beers in the competition can only vary one variable from the original recipe. Change the proportions of grain. Add one new grain. Change the hopping schedule, or the mash.

In software development, if you think you know a better way to do something, you write it and compile it and show people how it works.

In beer, the equivalent is to brew it and let people taste it.

So if you think you have a better way to brew, brew it and have a panel of judges see what they think. Then adopt the best-scoring techniques or changes for the next batch. (And, of course, publish everything).

In terms of getting more involvement for the Open Source Beer Project, I think the greatest way to facilitate this would be through greater exposure. A few things may help this including creating pages on social networking sites (Facebook, MySpace) and updating the Wikipedia page. I thought about setting up a Facebook page myself but felt that since there remains the affiliation with Flying Dog there was potential concern surrounding that (just give the okay and I could go ahead). And perhaps it is that affiliation that makes some hesitant to contribute?

Other than that, perhaps YouTube videos of people making/sampling the beer (or even a step by step guide of making the original recipe for those new to the craft).

The challenge is that there has to be a driving force to get people excited (which I think already exists and is amplified by the signed Gonzo Imperial Porter bottle). Just some thoughts, let’s hear some comments/ideas. I know there are some people out there with at least a little spare time to promote this wonderful concept and the craft of brewing.