Open-source software introduced a new model for organizing software development. The approach is sometimes referred to as a bazaar since it has similarities to the mechanics of free-markets. One reason it works so well is that it was created by developers, for developers. We all have certain frustrations with how software projects are run in the workplace. It's not uncommon for people with minimal development experience to be put in charge of directing software projects. Direction and deadlines are set by those that are completely out of touch with what it actually takes to build software. This may explain why so many software projects are delivered late and incomplete. Management may want to ship a product in a months time, but that goal may be wildly out of touch with what it actually takes to build quality software. As a result, corners are cut, and mountains of technical debt are accrued.
One of the reasons open-source software tends to be of such high quality is that many of the hurdles in traditional corporate development are minimized since those who understand it are the ones setting goals and providing direction. Google's success in technology can, in part, be explained by how they have embraced this concept. The most competent engineers at Google are the ones who determine the companies direction. This really shouldn't be a revolutionary idea. Those that know software the best are those that can make the most intelligent decisions about timelines and specification changes.
Despite how well developers like working under an open-source model, it's never going to totally replace the traditional managed model of development. As much as we enjoy working with open-source, at some point we also like to get paid.
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