The Asymmetry of Open Source

I'm working on a new way to fund source-available software: OpenFare.

The idea is to keep as close as possible to the MIT License with the exception that payment plans defined in code kick in for commercial users. The intention is to bring symmetry with a license which still allows the code to be forked and improved by anyone.

I don't believe that sponsorship models can materially improve the current situation. We need a new approach that scales and funds the long tail of software maintainers.

I've written about it here: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=29661206

Yes, asymmetry abounds in open source.

For example, open source wants/needs support from business but offers no support in return.

Found a problem? You fix it --- you've got the source. Easier said than done with nontrivial software.