Knowledge management in Open Source

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to identify how knowledge aggregated within an Open Source project gets managed and disseminated to the benefit of all involved. The beneficiaries here indicate both those who volunteer in the project and are in general not directly remunerated for their work, as well as those who work on Open Source software through their employment. In addition, knowledge sharing boundaries are identified between a commercial entity active in Open Source and the ideals set forth by the community which are not always in line with the goals of the commercial entity.

The research approach is tightly coupled to the empirical nature of the research question. An inductive, qualitative approach is therefore chosen. To strengthen and supplement this approach some quantitative techniques that enrich the findings from discussions and observations are used. A non-probability or judgemental sampling forms the base of the data collection process.

The results of the research identify the key mechanisms through which Open Source projects share and manage knowledge. It also identifies the barriers to using these tools and mechanisms from the parties involved, taking into account competition, image, and other factors deemed important by the participants.

The study limits itself to one company and a selection of projects of high importance to this company. The interactions between the company and its competitors and partners provided the necessary background to understand employee behaviour and to formulate the conclusions.