Unstructured Thoughts on the Problems of OSS/FOSS
gingerbill.org
gingerbill.org
The recent Winamp fiasco is a textbook example.
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.
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.