5
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I'm sure there are a lot of top-notch people doing this abroad. But I was wondering whether it is also possible for an average Filipino developer (based in the Philippines) to make open source software development his/her primary source of income. Hope to hear your thoughts on this subject. Thanks. |
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4
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Solo? Very few people are able to do this, and you need to be very good. I can think of one guy - Dean Michael Berris. Employed? The biggest company I can think of relying on Open Source as their main business is Exist. That's because they do backend work for other companies who sell professional services. I think O&B is doing the same. Now there are lots of companies using open source behind the scenes but don't say it, and building huge profitable projects with it. |
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7
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As long as people prefers your software, you will make some living out from it. Open sourcing will open opportunities for paid or free technical support, community building, commercial version of your software and what have you but if it has this market value, so to speak, the cash register may ring more often than you'd expect. You might want to check this URL - http://www.opensource.org/docs/definition.php for more insights. |
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6
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Check out 8Layer Technologies. They're doing open-source development of KahelOS (a Linux variant based on ArchLinux) and 8ix Zenith (an Asterisk IP PBX variant), and AFAIK their revenue model is based on support, consulting and systems integration. |
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3
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It really depends on the product that you will be creating. But if you are planning to make it as your primary source of income while in the Philippines I will advise otherwise. I suggest you start your open source project as a part-time thing. Build a stable build that you can release free-as-in-beer(open source software) wait for feedback and if the feedback is good then try to improve on your product and offer premium services on top of the open sourced one. |
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