Joining Forces and Looking for a Better Compensation: Open Source in Focus
LPI and OSI Join Forces to Strengthen the Open-Source Ecosystem
In a strategic partnership announced at the OSPOs for Good event at the United Nations Headquarters, the Linux Professional Institute (LPI) and the Open-Source Initiative (OSI) have united to enhance the Linux and open-source software landscape. This collaboration focuses on developing skilled professionals to meet the rising demand for open-source expertise across public and private sectors.
The alliance will see LPI and OSI working together on educational projects aimed at promoting technical skills in Linux and open-source technologies. LPI’s certification programs will be boosted by OSI's involvement, offering enhanced education opportunities and encouraging public participation in obtaining professional certifications.
In addition to fostering professional growth, the partnership promises financial benefits for participants, such as discounts and exclusive opportunities. Overall, this collaboration aims to advance the adoption and innovation of open-source technologies, vital for organizations undergoing digital transformation.
As Hernán Pachas, Global Head of Partnership at LPI, noted, “This is just the beginning” of a broader initiative to strengthen the open-source ecosystem, ensuring that Linux and open-source technologies remain essential to IT solutions worldwide.
Compensation Drives Better Open-Source Security Practices
A recent Tidelift survey of 400 open-source software maintainers reveals a direct link between compensation and the implementation of critical security and maintenance practices. Paid maintainers are 55% more likely to adopt top security practices such as two-factor authentication, static code analysis, and vulnerability fixes compared to unpaid maintainers. They also implement stronger maintenance protocols, including backward compatibility policies and formal code review processes.
Despite these benefits, the survey found that 60% of maintainers receive no compensation for their work, with only 16% indicating they are not interested in payment. Nearly half of respondents reported feeling underappreciated, with many citing stress and even considering quitting their roles due to the lack of support.
The findings emphasize the need for greater financial incentives to maintain the integrity and security of open-source projects. As Donald Fischer, CEO of Tidelift, pointed out, the pressure of security threats, such as the XZ Utils hack, is taking a toll on the open-source community. While maintainers are wary of AI-based coding tools, there is a growing recognition that financial support is crucial to ensuring the sustainability of these vital software projects.
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