Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is “knowledge management”?
KARL3 is focused on a simple-but-useful set of features for KM: namely, a set of services applied across a set of information that helps connect the dots into a bigger picture.
Those features are currently focused on tagging for folksonomic categorizing, security, security-aware searching, and related services.
Which license does KARL use?
KARL is licensed under the GPL.
Where does the name “KARL” come from?
Two sources. As an acronmym, KARL stands for the “Knowledge And Resource Locator.” Also, Karl Popper was a primary influence on George Soros, founder of the Open Society Institute. Mr. Popper originated the ideas of an open, civil society with transparency.
Can I get hosting or consulting for KARL?
Yes to both. Contact OSI for recomendations based on what you would like to do.
Why no Windows version?
As of the 3.0 release, KARL is focused on the needs of organizations deploying KARL (OSI and others), plus the development team that makes and customizes KARL.
Neither of these populations are Windows users. It is feasible for a competent Python developer to get KARL running under Windows, but is not part of the funded roadmap for the core development team.
The most straightforward solution on Windows is to install a virtual machine environment for Windows, such as Sun’s VirtualBox. Inside of this environment, install a Linux distribution such as Ubuntu. You gain the advantage of using a configuration that is common to other users and developers.
