OWASP AppSec DC 2009 - FAQ

Call For Papers
Q. What is the Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP)?

The Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP) is a worldwide free and open community focused on improving the security of application software. Our mission is to make application security visible, so that people and organizations can make informed decisions about true application security risks. Everyone is free to participate in OWASP and all of our materials are available under a free and open software license. The OWASP Foundation is a 501c3 not-for-profit charitable organization that ensures the ongoing availability and support for our work with your support.

Q. How many speaking slots are there?

The schedule for AppSec DC will largely be based on the number of quality presentations we receive. While we have an outline for the conference schedule we cannot solidify it until the CFP has completed. In addition to the primary slots we will be selecting a small number of alternate presenters who will receive a free pass to the conference in return for being ready to present if there is a cancelation.

Q. What are the submission deadlines?

The CFP submission deadline is June 15th, with presentation material due August 1st 2009.

Q: Who is allowed to submit presentations?

A: Original authors of presentations may submit presentations for consideration. Third party representatives such as PR firms or Speaker Representatives MAY NOT submit materials on behalf of a potential speaker.

Q: Why aren't Third Parties such as PR Firms allowed to submit presentations?

A: Due to potential copyright and intellectual property liability issues as well as the need for OWASP to have direct contact with potential and selected presenters to expedite selection and deliverable materials, we require that only original authors of presentations submit for the Call for Papers. Third party representatives such as PR firms or Speaker Representatives MAY NOT submit materials on behalf of a potential speaker.

Q: How long will I have to wait before I am notified if I have been accepted or denied?

A: Submitters are notified of the status (acceptance or denial) within 10 business days after the close of the Call for Papers.

Q. Is there an honorarium for presenters?

No. OWASP is committed to making its conferences available to the widest possible audience. In order to do this OWASP keeps the entrance fees as low as possible to make the conference accessible. As a result we are unable to provide a monetary honorarium but we welcome our speakers as our guests to the conference where they can network with other security professionals.

'''Q: I have been accepted. What are the materials that I have to turn in and what are the deadlines?'''

A: The following is a list of materials that are required from each accepted presentation. Failure to proceed these materials by the deadlines set forth for the event the presentation was accepted for will result in of acceptance.
 * A confirmed Speaker Agreement (July 1st 2009)
 * Presentation in PowerPoint or Keynote format using the OWASP Template (September 15th 2009)
 * Detailed Bibliography of resources, co-authors, etc. (September 15th 2009)
 * Optional White Paper for inclusion on CD (September 15th 2009)

Q: Do I have to submit a White Paper?

A: No. We would certainly appreciate any White Papers that can be included on the conference CD but they are not required. If you have written an existing white paper to go along with your presentation, please submit it with your CFP submission. Submissions with attached White Papers will receive additional consideration.

'''Q: What if I have a co-author who is not presenting. How do I cite the person(s)?'''

A: All co-authors and works that have been used should be cited in a detailed bibliography that will be published on the Conference CD.

'''Q: I have been accepted and would like to add co-presenters. Can I still do this?'''

A: No. Co-presenters should have been added at the time that the Presentation was submitted. They may attend the conference and present if they pay the full conference fee.

'''Q: My PR company/friends/co-workers/family would like to come see me give my presentation. Will they be allowed in for free?'''

A: No. All guests of speakers must be registered and paid in full in order to receive admission to the conference.

Q: My company wants to donate and support OWASP as a 501(3)c non-profit in exchange for resources at the Expo, what is the cost?

A: Sponsorship information can be found on our conference website.

Q. I have more questions

A: Email mark.bristow(at)owasp.org concerning this event.