Where are you from, and where do you live now?

We are all from Taiwan, a beautiful island once called "Formosa" by the Portuguese in the 16th century. It lies off the southeastern coast of mainland China and in the middle of Japan and Philippines. Maybe you have heard of Taiwan, maybe not. In addition to the world's tallest building Taipei 101, Taiwan has established many world's top industries like personal computer (ACER/ASUS), bicycle (GIANT), footwear, tennis racket, textile and etc. The forest and marine ecosystems are abundant and the people here are very kind to foreigners. If you have a chance to travel in Asia, we sincerely invite you to visit Taiwan. Our club is located in Tainan City, a traditional city famous for its historic constructions, culture and cuisine in the southern part of Taiwan. Most of our members live in the south part of Taiwan and some come from the eastern Taiwan.

How long have you been programming?

Most of us have 1~3 years experience in programming and some others are just starting, using XOOPS as the learning tool.

What is your expertise?

We mainly study on new module development, theme design and other free software. Most of our members take it as a hobby, but there are few of us who apply it to their jobs and some even use it to make a living.

What got you into XOOPS?

Because XOOPS is easy to use and is rich in resources. Also quite a lot of people are using XOOPS here in Taiwan.

What do you like the most about XOOPS?

XOOPS is easy and quick to install. Moreover, there are plenty of ready-made modules and themes for use.

In what area of XOOPS do you contribute and why?

We have started to provide some useful and free modules. In addition, we help our local users to set up their websites with XOOPS.

What are you major achievement as the CK2 Club that you're most proud of?

This year, three members of our club (including Tad, our instructor) have developed a school software system for the Tainan Community College. This school software is a large, complex and full-featured system. The fact that Tainan community college is willing to use it indicates our developing capabilities have reached a reliable level. In addition, many modules developed by us got very positive feedback and appreciation from a lot of users. This is what we are most happy about.

What are you goals for 2010?

For 2010, we hope to create more easy-to-use and practical modules in international versions, such as a new school system or a shopping cart system. Also, we hope to go out for a tour that all club members can join together in the coming year.

How often do you meet, and what are you typical meetings about?

We have regular member meetings on the last Sunday of every month. Generally speaking, we arrange one or two courses for members to learn new techniques. At the rest of the time, we have free talks, chat and eat some local delicious food.

What is the biggest challenge to keep a User Group such as CK2 Club going and keep the members engaged?

To find an interesting topic in the complex techniques is the most challenging part. Too complex coding discourages the novice and too simple programming are unattractive to the experienced members.

What would be the most important advise for somebody starting a XOOPS User Group in their city?

Just do it. It just needs one person to take the initiative. In addition, there must be clear objectives for the Club.

What are your hobbies, when you're not coding?

Our club members have different kinds of hobbies such as watching movies, reading books, traveling, shopping, go sporting....when we get together and are not coding, we chat, have refreshments or a meal. Also, we plan to go out for a tour together but the time is not yet determined, because all of us are too busy.

What dish and drink would you recommend to somebody visiting Taiwan?

We recommend Oyster omelet and Bubble Tea, it is delicious and you can find it in any night market.

Who is the person that you would like to meet and why? 

phppp! He is really an excellent programmer. Moreover, we could talk with him in Chinese