panels
Sometimes it's best if we all share the same speaking space. Consequently, in keeping with the Open Conference style, these discussions are selected by the attendees, not the organizers. The time is set aside to allow attendees to lead the discussions and focus on topics of their interest.
It's very easy to establish an Open Discussion panel at REST Fest. Just enter a topic into one of the open slots and link to a wiki page where you can enter the topic title, an optional abstract/description, and a series of starter questions for the panel. Anyone who would like to participate can add their name to the list of panelists. Of course, all attendees can contribute to Open Discussion panels, too.
We'll allocate 30-45 minute time slots in the Agenda as panel proposals roll in. Feel free to add a Panel Discussion to your People Page and let us know when you'd like to schedule it.
Like other speaking slots, we manage them through a combination of the People Pages and the Agenda. Things get scheduled organically prior to and during the event.
Also, if you'd like to see a panel discussion, but don't really want to "take the baton" to lead it, feel free to add your topic ideas to your people page and encourage others to take the lead as moderators.