Open Source Maintainership: The Overlooked Heroes of Tech
Wednesday, 18 September 2024, 04:31
Understanding the Dilemma of Open Source Maintainership
In a landscape where the *value* of digital resources is soaring, open source maintainers face a stark reality of being *underpaid*. With the weight of security standards like the NIST SSDF resting on their shoulders, these maintainers contribute significantly to the tech ecosystem yet receive little in return.
The Rise of Security Standards
- Increased awareness regarding security measures.
- Implementation of the OpenSSF Scorecard.
- Adoption of the Supply Chain Levels for Software Artifacts.
The Financial Strain on Maintainers
The issue of compensation is persistent across open source projects. Many maintainers invest countless hours into their projects without adequate reimbursement, leading to fatigue and attrition.
Call for Industry Support
- Encourage funding for open source projects.
- Acknowledge the vital role maintainers play.
- Support initiatives that standardize funding contributions.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.