Category: 1. Software Industry
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How to talk about open source without making a mess
Based on years of experience, and a fair bit of frustration, I have some recommendations about choice of words for journalists when writing about open-source software and its role in running data centers and enabling digital sovereignty. Open-source software vs. open source solution. This is the big one. Software is an artifact (code) and a…
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Europe’s AI opportunity: Unbiased foundation models
This MIT Technology Review article on “open source AI” argues that Chinese companies, with governmental backing, are embracing an open source approach to AI. They don’t, it is typically only open models that are being provided, not full-blown open source AIs. However, the story is appealing. Still the underdog when compared with the US, China…
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Open source community roles and community continuity (Matt Germonprez, IEEE Computer)
I’m happy to report that the 39th article in the open source column of IEEE Computer has been published. As always, please consider writing an article proposal! Abstract Open source communities are built on the engagement of people, and these engagements are subject to change. Open source communities can recognize and support role adaptation where…
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The new closed complement to commercial open-source software
Commercial open source firms make money by selling something that they don’t give away for free. If you’ve been following my writing or even attended my open source business workshop you know that I’ve been calling what companies sell the closed complement. Closed, because customers don’t get it for free, and complement, because it somehow…
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Why an open source requirement (“public money, public code”) is not enough for digital sovereignty
Open-source software can help digital sovereignty, but it is not enough. Many of the calls of open source enthusiasts, in my book, are even hurting, because they simplify and promise what can’t be promised. Myth: Open-source software will remove vendor lock-in and will make switching to alternative suppliers easy. Truth: All software locks you in,…
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![Best Practices for Work From Home: A Qualitative Survey in Open Source and Distributed Software Development [INFSOF Journal]](https://dirkriehle.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10576-golden-gate-bridge-overcast-day-300x150.jpg)
Best Practices for Work From Home: A Qualitative Survey in Open Source and Distributed Software Development [INFSOF Journal]
Abstract Due to the COVID-19 pandemic that broke out in 2020, companies switched to working from home on a large scale. Now, in 2025, many employees are working from home entirely or are only in the office irregularly. This has created a new working environment for many software professionals that resembles both the distributed software…