Mono is a comprehensive open source development platform based on the .NET framework that allows developers to build Linux and cross-platform applications with unprecedented productivity. Mono's .NET implementation has enabled the development of several innovative applications including Tomboy Notes and the Beagle Search Engine, and is quickly becoming available on every major Linux desktop distribution, as well as Windows and Mac OS X. Proof of this is Mono's recent inclusion in Rawhide, the staging area for the next release of Fedora Core.

This tutorial provides an introduction to application development with Mono. The tutorial will walk participants through installing and configuring Mono and will teach them about the extensive features of the Mono platform. In addition, participants will acquire an understanding of Mono's rich development toolset, including the MonoDevelop development environment, discover how to develop web and rich client applications, and see how to deploy those applications on Linux, Windows, and Mac OS X using the Mono runtime. This tutorial will also introduce the newest target platform for Mono, the Nokia 770 Internet Tablet.

With Mono's rising acceptance and with the proliferation of new applications built with Mono, this tutorial will create a foundation for participants to explore new opportunities in cross-platform development. The tutorial will also include an in-depth discussion of cross-platform considerations to leverage Mono in future projects.