What makes a good talk.

At FOSS4G NA, the most memorable sessions are those that inform, include, and encourage others to engage with the growing open geospatial ecosystem. A strong presentation connects open geospatial tools and data to real-world outcomes, moving beyond simply describing technology. The most effective talks demonstrate how these tools are used in practice to solve problems, support better decision-making, or strengthen the community. They aim to share practical lessons: what succeeded, what failed, and what others can learn. No matter your area of expertise—be it technical, community-focused, or business-oriented—attendees will benefit from your valuable insights.

How you present is just as important as what you present. Successful sessions are clear, focused, and accessible to a diverse audience that may include both newcomers and experienced practitioners. Keep your message straightforward, limit jargon, and use visuals or examples that make your work easier to understand. Whether it’s discovering a new tool, gaining a different perspective, or feeling inspired to participate in the open geospatial community, think about what your audience will take away.

At FOSS4G 2026 in Sacramento, California, we are particularly interested in talks focused on resilience and innovation. Submit your talks related to open data, water policy and implementation, wildfire and hazard applications, and environmental resilience today! Looking for inspiration? Take a look at some of the great talks from last year’s conference.