The main problem for me is maintainability. There is a graveyard of FOSS because of hastily made hobby software that is not maintainable.
The recent Winamp fiasco is a textbook example.
gingerBill•9mo ago
What is the incentive to maintain something that is free (in both senses of that word)? Even if it is just out of the kindness of their heart, is that even a kind thing for them?
Most open source projects are people who have dumped their unfinished project online, but it's hard to know whether or not it is finished until you use it, or worse, use it for a long time and find the gaping holes.
And without being paid, there is the issue that the maintainer doesn't work on the important things, since there is a lack of (price) signal to state what to work on.
fithisux•9mo ago
maintainability is for others and self.
baranul•9mo ago
> Most open source projects are people who have dumped their unfinished project online, but it's hard to know whether or not it is finished until you use it, or worse, use it for a long time and find the gaping holes.
Mostly agree, but what should people expect when it's free? Arguably, there should not be any expectation of a "polished" product. If it is good, that's likely from community support, and general need.
> And without being paid, there is the issue that the maintainer doesn't work on the important things, since there is a lack of (price) signal to state what to work on.
After stumbling upon this thread and article, by itself, most might think there is nothing wrong with the statement, and that it makes some notable points. Upon reading up on the history involving other projects, however, it then comes across as bizarre in an hard to explain way.
Be that as it may, do agree that all FOSS projects have the right to receive donations or be financially supported to compensate and thank them for their work. It's up to the public how important they think supporting it is, and that part looks fair.
fithisux•9mo ago
The recent Winamp fiasco is a textbook example.
gingerBill•9mo ago
Most open source projects are people who have dumped their unfinished project online, but it's hard to know whether or not it is finished until you use it, or worse, use it for a long time and find the gaping holes.
And without being paid, there is the issue that the maintainer doesn't work on the important things, since there is a lack of (price) signal to state what to work on.
fithisux•9mo ago
baranul•9mo ago
Mostly agree, but what should people expect when it's free? Arguably, there should not be any expectation of a "polished" product. If it is good, that's likely from community support, and general need.
> And without being paid, there is the issue that the maintainer doesn't work on the important things, since there is a lack of (price) signal to state what to work on.
After stumbling upon this thread and article, by itself, most might think there is nothing wrong with the statement, and that it makes some notable points. Upon reading up on the history involving other projects, however, it then comes across as bizarre in an hard to explain way.
Be that as it may, do agree that all FOSS projects have the right to receive donations or be financially supported to compensate and thank them for their work. It's up to the public how important they think supporting it is, and that part looks fair.