Open Website Alliance Open Website Alliance

Membership Application Process

Eligibility Check

Ensure your organization meets the eligibility criteria:

Review Open Web Manifesto

Familiarize yourself with the Alliance’s Open Web Manifesto (see: Appendix I of the Charter) and ensure your organization agrees to comply with its principles.

Prepare Application Materials

Here are the key components that should be included in your membership application.

  1. Organization Information:
    • Name of your organization.
    • Legal entity status (e.g., non-profit organization, corporation, foundation).
    • Contact information (address, phone number, email) of your organization’s headquarters or main office.
  2. Project Information:
    • Name of the open-source web content management project your organization represents.
    • Brief description of the project’s goals, functionalities, and target audience.
    • Confirmation that the project is distributed exclusively under licenses approved by the Open Source Initiative (OSI).
  3. Letter of Intent:
    • A formal letter expressing your organization’s interest in joining the alliance.
    • Explanation of why your organization seeks membership and how it aligns with the goals of the alliance.
    • Commitment to uphold the principles outlined in the alliance’s Open Web Manifesto (referencing specific points if applicable).
  4. Supporting Documentation:
    • Proof of your organization’s legal entity status (e.g., copy of incorporation certificate, non-profit registration).
    • Copies of relevant bylaws, charters, or mission statements that define your organization’s structure and governance.
  5. Contact Persons:
    • Nominate one or more individuals who will serve as contact persons for the alliance and have decision-making authority on behalf of the organization.
    • Include their full names, titles, email addresses, and phone numbers.
    • Specify their roles within your organization (e.g., executive director, project lead).
  6. Additional Information (if applicable):
    • Any additional information or context that may strengthen your application, such as previous collaborations with alliance members, contributions to the open-source community, or endorsements from relevant stakeholders.
  7. Declaration of Compliance:
    • Acknowledge your organization’s commitment to abide by the alliance’s rules and decisions.
    • Confirmation and disclosure of the organization’s own legal structure, bylaws, and/or mission that is or may be in conflict with the charter (see the OWA charter, section 4.10) and how you intend to address them.
  8. Signature:
    • A signature from an authorized representative of your organization, endorsing the application and confirming the accuracy of the information provided.

Submit Application

Send your completed application materials to the President of the Alliance. Ensure all required documents and information are included.

Membership Review and Vote

  • The President will review your application and present it to the Alliance members for a vote.
  • Members will vote on whether to admit your organization as a member.

Notification of Decision

  • You will be informed promptly of the outcome of the vote.
  • If approved, your membership commences immediately.
  • If not approved, the Alliance will provide relevant feedback and information. You may reapply after 12 months if desired.

Membership Commencement

  • Upon approval, your organization officially becomes a member of the Alliance.
  • Your contact person(s) will start receiving meeting invites and other communications from the Alliance.

Affiliate Status (if applicable)

  • If not granted full membership, your organization may be offered affiliate status, allowing attendance and participation in meetings without voting rights.

Maintaining Membership

  • Ensure ongoing compliance with the Alliance’s rules and the Open Web Manifesto.
  • Inform the President promptly if there are any changes in your organization’s contact person or legal status.