Linux Journal recently made a new addition to its editorial staff. Starting with the June issue, James Gray has taken over the position of Products Editor, and he is interested in finding out about all of your new products in advance of their release. We interviewed James to find out how companies with new Linux and Open Source products can maximize their opportunities for press coverage.

LINUX BUSINESS LETTER: Can you tell us about your role as Products Editor?

JAMES: Sure thing! I now edit the section in Linux Journal called "New Products". This is generally a two-page spread with 7-10 different new products from the Linux and Open Source marketplaces. Each product gets a description of around 150 words, as well as an image related to the product, such as a screen shot or an image of the device. These 'blurbs' are not reviews. Instead, I distill the information sent by the company into a blurb that is relevant for a general audience. I also include a URL so that readers can quickly find additional product information.

LBL: What tips can you give to companies for getting into the "New Products" section?

The best thing to do is build a relationship with me and keep me fully informed of your product developments. Although it may be more convenient to whip out mass emails, more targeted and personal communication is much more fruitful. While I will be thrilled that your Vice President of Human Resources made the list of Movers and Shakers of Memphis, please do not overload me with such information. Just the product facts, please. Here are some more things to keep in mind:

• Give me a heads-up notice on real, shippable products that are a few months out so I can keep track of them. For example, I'd like to know right now what you will be releasing between now and July. I will keep confidential information under embargo.
• Send materials as early as possible to me at newprod@ssc.com. Consider that the editorial deadline is the same as the ad deadline. Therefore, material submitted in late May ends up in the August issue of Linux Journal's, hitting newsstands in mid-July.
• Include a selection of high-resolution images (300 dpi), preferably JPEGs.
• If your product is an update or upgrade, make it very clear what makes this new version special. Lots of new products come out every week.
• If you use an agency, invest the effort to insure that they fully understand your product. Nothing is more frustrating than an underinformed agency rep.
• Provide a very concise summary of the new product, but also show me where to get detailed background info.
• Some companies overdo it with jargon and acronyms, which is a real turn-off. Although I am technically adept, I am not an expert in every field. Therefore, please keep your product info understandable to those outside your area of expertise.
• Be sure that the product is appropriate for Linux Journal, i.e. directly related to Linux and/or Open Source.

LBL: What did you do before this position?

JAMES: I'm actually moving over from the marketing and PR side of Linux Journal, where I've been working for several years. Before that, I was with CNET, No Starch Press and SUSE. In fact, I helped SUSE to get their US operations going in the late 1990s. I think that my mix of technical ability, Linux-focused business experience and PR sensibility will help me in this new position. I understand where our vendors are coming from and how important it is for Linux-oriented customers to get coverage in Linux Journal. I'm looking forward to building strong, mutually-beneficial relationships with Linux Journal's client base.

LBL: What do you do when you're not writing articles for Linux Journal?

JAMES: I live in Lansing, Michigan with my wife, Lisa, and our well-fed cats, Max and Maggie. In my free time, I enjoy playing tennis, learning Spanish, reading, travelling and exploring the great outdoors.