Working Paper: CEPR ID: DP4329
Authors: Chaim Fershtman; Neil Gandal
Abstract: Using a unique dataset we examine empirically which factors explain output per contributor in open source projects. We find that the output per contributor of open source programmes is much higher when licenses are less restrictive. Further examination suggests that the difference in output per contributor is in large part due to many more contributors for projects that employ restrictive licenses. The results suggest a status/signaling or ideological motivation for participation in open source projects with restrictive licenses.
Keywords: empirical study; open source; restrictive licenses; software
JEL Codes: D20; L86
Edges that are evidenced by causal inference methods are in orange, and the rest are in light blue.
| Cause | Effect |
|---|---|
| restrictive licenses (D45) | lower output per contributor (E23) |
| non-restrictive licenses (R48) | higher output per contributor (O47) |
| license type (D45) | number of contributors (C43) |
| number of contributors (C43) | output per contributor (Y10) |