WP Tavern #165 – Aaron D. Campbell Why Open Standards and WordPress Matter
7 snips
Apr 16, 2025 
Aaron D. Campbell, an international speaker and open source advocate, shares his 18-year journey in contributing to WordPress. He emphasizes the significance of open standards as a counterbalance to closed platforms. The discussion delves into the internet's altruistic origins and the dire need for user control amid rising corporate dominance. Aaron critiques the shift toward closed platforms and champions the role of open systems in fostering innovation. He also advocates for better outreach to younger tech users, promoting a more collaborative and inclusive web.
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Control Over Your Web Data
- WordPress allows you to move your site and data freely between hosts, maintaining control over your content.
- Closed platforms like Facebook do not offer this freedom, affecting users' livelihoods and autonomy.
Open Web Means Interoperability
- The open web started with open standards enabling interoperability across different implementations.
- This openness allows users to own and transport their content freely, beyond just open source software.
Internet Enables Global Collaboration
- Aaron's wife’s neurologist collaborates daily with global specialists, enabled by the internet.
- This exemplifies how internet-driven collaboration is unprecedented and transforms fields like healthcare.