Factors affecting the success of Open Source Software

With the rapid rise in the use of Open Source Software (OSS) in all types of applications, it is important to know which factors can lead to OSS success. OSS projects evolve and transform over time; therefore success must be examined longitudinally over a period of time. In this research, we examine two measures of project success: project popularity and developer activity, of 283 OSS projects over a span of 3 years, in order to observe changes over time. A comprehensive research model of OSS success is developed which includes both extrinsic and intrinsic attributes. Results show that while many of the hypothesized relationships are supported, there were marked differences in some of the relationships at different points in time lending support to the notion that different factors need to be emphasized as the OSS project unfolds over time.

► We examine various factors that impact the success of Open Source Software (OSS) over time. ► Different factors are grouped into extrinsic and intrinsic cues that OSS consumers utilize in assessing an OSS project. ► Our findings suggest that user base, language translations, responsibility assignment, and modularity positively impact the OSS success.