65% of enterprises are using open source software, and not only internet companies can benefit from open source programs.
Many internet companies such as Google, Facebook, Twitter, etc., have officially established open source programs (some have established separate open source program offices</rt> (OSPOs)), which are places to internalize and support open source products within the company. In such an actual department, enterprises can implement open source strategies clearly and transparently, which is a necessary process for enterprises to successfully open source. The responsibilities of the open source program office include: formulating policies related to using, distributing, selecting and reviewing code; nurturing open source communities; training development technicians and ensuring legal compliance.
Internet companies are not the only ones establishing open source programs. Surveys have found that 65% of enterprises in various industries are using open source and contributing to open source. In the past few years, companies like VMware, Amazon, Microsoft, and even the UK government have started hiring open source managers to launch open source programs. It can be seen that in recent years, the business sector and even the government have attached great importance to open source strategies. In such an environment, all sectors also need to keep up with their pace and establish open source programs.
How to Establish an Open Source Program
Although different open source program offices will have special adjustments according to the needs of the enterprise, the following basic steps are experienced by every company when establishing one:
- Select a leader: Selecting a suitable leader is the first step in establishing an open source program. The TODO Group has published a basic job task list for open source personnel, and you can screen personnel based on this list.
- Determine the program structure: The open source program office can adapt to different types of enterprise needs according to the focus of the enterprise type it serves, in order to operate successfully in various enterprises. Knowledge-based enterprises can place the open source program in the legal affairs department, while technology-driven enterprises can place the open source program in departments focused on improving enterprise efficiency, such as the engineering department. Other types of enterprises can place the open source program within the marketing department to promote the sales of open source products. The open source program cases published by the TODO Group may give you some inspiration.
- Formulate rules and regulations: The implementation of open source strategies requires a set of rules and regulations, which should specifically list the standard processes for enterprise members to carry out open source work to reduce errors. This process should be concise, clear and simple, preferably automated with equipment. It’s even better if staff have the enthusiasm and ability to question standard processes and propose improvements. Among many companies active in the open source field, Google’s published rules and regulations are worth learning from. You can refer to Google’s published system to draft rules and regulations applicable to your own enterprise, or you can refer to other open source strategies provided by TODO.
Establishing an Open Source Program is a Key Step in Enterprise Development
Establishing an open source program office is a key step for many enterprises, especially for software companies or companies that want to transform into the software field. Whether in terms of employee satisfaction or development efficiency, enterprises can obtain huge benefits from open source programs, which far outweigh the long-term investment required for open source programs. There are many resources to help you succeed on the open source path, such as TODO Group’s “How to Create an Open Source Program”, “Value Assessment of Open Source Programs”, and “Several Tools for Managing Open Source Programs”, which are all suitable for beginners to read.
As more and more enterprises form open source programs, the sustainability of the open source community itself gradually strengthens, which will have a positive impact on these enterprises’ open source programs and promote enterprise development. This is a virtuous cycle between enterprises and open source. I hope the above information can help you, and I wish you all the best on your way to establishing an open source program.
