Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
5075968 Information Economics and Policy 2008 12 Pages PDF
Abstract
Free and open source software activities involve and, perhaps, evolve institutions (rules, norms and standards) that influence the formation, growth, and demise of communities. Community institutions are attractors for some individuals while discouraging other individuals from entering or continuing to participate. Their suitability may change as a community grows. This paper examines the institutions of the Debian community where issues of community identity, distribution of authority, and decentralisation have facilitated growth and development. These same institutions have also resulted in conflicts regarding community purposes and the quality and delivery of the community's output. We examine the institutional redesign undertaken to address these problems and derive implications for F/LOS communities and companies.
Related Topics
Social Sciences and Humanities Business, Management and Accounting Management of Technology and Innovation
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