People complain that open source doesn't have good documentation. Usually they are correct, but occasionally the reverse is true. Sometimes an open source project produces a documentation success story that is not just thorough and professional, but is as innovative and exciting as the software itself.

Plone Live is such an example. This mammoth effort, produced by Michel and Munwar, is a tremendous addition to the world of Plone and one of the best values on the market. Written by people who are involved in the development of Plone, Plone Live is up-to-date, comprehensive, and well-organized.

This book captures the spirit of Plone as it continues its rise as the leading open source content management system. Nobody asked Michel and Munwar to write it. They saw a market, had interest, and showed initiative. They know all the people involved, go to conferences, give speeches, and have fun. In fact, CIGNEX hosts development activities and employs several of the top Plone developers. Plone Live feels like Plone itself, both in spirit and in execution.

I first encountered Plone while still at Zope Corporation. It was a relief to see a project doing the specific thing that CMF tried to avoid: focus on an out-of-the-box experience. It wasn't until I moved to Europe that I saw the real attraction, best summarized by Martin Aspeli at a recent conference: "Plone values you and your efforts; come join us and have fun." Even when the world of Plone is frustrating, there remains a sense that you matter and your efforts count.

Similarly, my experiences with Michel go back some time, when Zope Corporation was called Digital Creations. Michel is in a unique position; he is an early chronicler of both Zope and Plone. With Michel and now with Munwar, I see the same "Let's make it happen!" approach that encourages others and generates even broader participation.

Plone Live will be your guidebook on your journey. As Plone grows, Plone Live will grow with it. Thanks, Michel and Munwar, for showing that open source can be a leader in documentation.

Paul Everitt

Paul Everitt is the Executive Director of Plone Foundation, a Co-founder of Zope Corporation, and the Founder of Zope Europe Association and Board member of OSCOM.