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For majority OSS projects out there, that is not sustainable. As you said so yourself, when the money runs out the project is in trouble, because when those peo
by dreen 13y ago
For majority OSS projects out there, that is not sustainable. As you said so yourself, when the money runs out the project is in trouble, because when those people inevitably get real jobs to cover their livelihood they become less active or might even leave, feeling disincentivised (sp?). And with them the knowledge about all the little obscure stuff goes away. Plus, if you had a successful project and a nice job you liked, would you quit it because some people on the internet promised to pay your salary? You just have no guarantee they will do that.
- nslater 13y agoIndeed. Commercial contributions are very valuable, but it's important to take steps to reduce the inherent risk. If AcmeCorp stops paying its employees to contribute to your project, do you still have a project left? If that thought scares you, it's a good indication that you need to increase contributor diversity. Perhaps that means more volunteer contributors, or perhaps it means additional corporate contributions. But do not put all your eggs in one basket!