Working Paper: CEPR ID: DP8434
Authors: Chaim Fershtman; Neil Gandal
Abstract: The open source model is a form of software development in which the source code is made available, free of charge, to all interested parties; further users have the right to modify and extend the program. Open source software (OSS) methods rely on developers who reveal the source code under an open source license. Under certain types of open source licenses, any further development using the source code must also be publicly disclosed. In this brief survey, we will focus on several key aspects of open source software.
Keywords: digital content; intrinsic motivation; licenses; open source software; R&D
JEL Codes: L17
Edges that are evidenced by causal inference methods are in orange, and the rest are in light blue.
| Cause | Effect |
|---|---|
| intrinsic motivation (O31) | level of contribution to OSS (L17) |
| self-use benefits (D16) | level of contribution to OSS (L17) |
| desire for reputation enhancement (D83) | motivation to contribute (D64) |
| motivation to contribute (D64) | level of contribution to OSS (L17) |