In the Open Source model, vendors compete purely on the basis of their ability to add value to a shared platform, not on the basis of proprietary secrets. The Open Source development model effectively spreads risks over a large pool of programming talent. Cisco Systems recently decided to release print spooler software under an Open Source license to reduce its dependency on in-house programming staff.4 3. To understand the Open Source software development process it is important to acknowledge the roles of the various participants who take part in creating the code. After the project maintainer puts up the first release, both users and the development team submit ideas to the project mailing lists.
Patches come in from developers to the project maintainer.
The maintainer incorporates improvements and releases a new version to the development team and users. As momentum builds, more people get involved, and the software evolves. Developers are rewarded by the immediately visible recognition of their contributions to the product. Linux is probably the best-known example of a successful Open Source development project. Improvements and bug fixes developed and submitted by companies such as Linuxcare are included in Linux releases based on technical merit alone.