The abbreviation FROST comes from the words Finnish Research and Open Source Team. FROST is part of WO Finland. As its name implies, it is a team that does research and computer programs based on open source code for Bible translators and linguists. FROST concentrates on the Macintosh and Linux platforms.

We liked the abbreviation FROST because it strengthens the stereotype that it is cold in Finland.

The goal of FROST is, together with others, to develop computer programs that local people can use. A typical end user is an Asian rice farmer, not a western linguist with a university degree.

The strategy of FROST is sustainable software development. What this means is that we try to use long term tools and standard file formats. We also try to develop software that is easy to maintain and easy to use, and which has native look and feel. Instead of building an aircraft carrier, we build small motor boats.

FROST tries to encourage Finns (other nationalities are also welcome) to participate in software production in their free time. If you have 4-5 hours per week to give to this, you are welcome to join us. Full time workers are also welcome. There is just this small detail, that we cannot pay salaries. If you are interested, contact me, Kari Valkama, in the address karivalkama (at) mac.com.