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Strategiczne rozwidlanie w tworzeniu Wolnego i Otwartego Oprogramowania

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  • Grzegorz Konat

Abstract

The paper discusses a trend in the development of computer software known as “strategic forking.” This trend is an intrinsic feature of today’s “open-source community,” according to Konat. To begin with, the article defines the term “source code” in reference to software” and it also explains the terms “open source” and “free software.” Moreover, it introduces the definition of Free/Open-Source Software (FOSS). In the following part of the article, Konat offers a microeconomic analysis of “strategic forking” to determine the motives guiding software engineers taking part in FOSS projects. The problem is discussed from the perspective of the theory of public goods, the demand-side approach to innovation, and other theories concerned with issues such as “hackers’ ethic” and “ego boosting.” Konat pays special attention to describing the “strategic forking” phenomenon with the use of classical microeconomic and enterprise theory tools developed by researchers Jean Tirole and Josh Lerner. The author follows up with a comprehensive analysis of strategic forking as a key to explaining a fundamental discrepancy in the assessment of the motives that guide programmers taking part in the development of open-source software. The analysis focuses on the definition of strategic forking, the conditions determining this trend and its direct causes. Konat also looks at the implications of strategic forking and the factors due to which this approach has not become more widespread around the world. The article closes with a review of issues that require further analysis, according to Konat. These include the issue of software distribution.
(This abstract was borrowed from another version of this item.)

Suggested Citation

  • Grzegorz Konat, 2008. "Strategiczne rozwidlanie w tworzeniu Wolnego i Otwartego Oprogramowania," Gospodarka Narodowa. The Polish Journal of Economics, Warsaw School of Economics, issue 10, pages 23-43.
    • Handle: RePEc:sgh:gosnar:y:2008:i:10:p:23-43
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Josh Lerner & Jean Tirole, 2002. "Some Simple Economics of Open Source," Journal of Industrial Economics, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 50(2), pages 197-234, June.
    2. Josh Lerner & Jean Tirole, 2005. "The Economics of Technology Sharing: Open Source and Beyond," Journal of Economic Perspectives, American Economic Association, vol. 19(2), pages 99-120, Spring.
    3. Bruce Kogut & Anca Metiu, 2001. "Open-Source Software Development and Distributed Innovation," Oxford Review of Economic Policy, Oxford University Press and Oxford Review of Economic Policy Limited, vol. 17(2), pages 248-264, Summer.
    4. Weber, Steven, 2000. "The Political Economy of Open Source Software," UCAIS Berkeley Roundtable on the International Economy, Working Paper Series qt3hq916dc, UCAIS Berkeley Roundtable on the International Economy, UC Berkeley.
    5. Gilles Saint-Paul, 2003. "Growth Effects Of Nonproprietary Innovation," Journal of the European Economic Association, MIT Press, vol. 1(2-3), pages 429-439, 04/05.
    6. Nuvolari, A., 2003. "Open source software development: some historical perspectives," Working Papers 03.01, Eindhoven Center for Innovation Studies.
    7. Stenborg, Markku, 2004. "Explaining Open Source," Discussion Papers 947, The Research Institute of the Finnish Economy.
    8. Jean-Michel Dalle & Paul David, 2005. "The Allocation of Software Development Resources In ‘Open Source’ Production Mode," Industrial Organization 0502011, University Library of Munich, Germany.
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