Aug/Sept 2008

What is being described as a global, independent forum for users of Anoto Digital Pen and Paper solutions has been launched under the name Unity Forum.

The drive behind the initiative has come from Ubiquitous Systems (Ubisys), a leading supplier of this technology, and Ubisys is running and moderating the related Web site. However, the organisation is taking pains to avoid any accusations of partiality. It is currently scouting for a forum chairman from outside the company, and inviting applications from anyone who is interested.

The aim behind the forum is said to be to bring together users of digital pen and paper, regardless of who implemented their solution. The group intends to hold regular meetings to discuss ideas for development, solutions and innovation, and to share information to benefit both themselves and others.

The Web site is constructed in the form of a classic bulletin board-style forum, using open-source phpBB software.

According to Ubisys managing director Tarek Ghouri: 'We realised that [users] were keen to share ideas, success stories, questions and best practice with like-minded people, but had no vehicle to do so.'

The move has been welcomed by Anoto itself. In the words of vice president Ebba �sly F�hraeus: 'This type of global user community for sharing experiences and exchanging ideas is important for the development of the digital pen and paper community as a whole.'

There has been no announcement on the development so far from Destiny, which is probably the other best-known supplier of Anoto technology in the UK.