The nature and composition of the Linux kernel developer community: a dynamic analysis
R.A. Ghosh · Research Publications (Maastricht University) · 2003
This paper presents data gathered from a detailed study of the structure and composition of the Linux kernel developer community, as sampled through three versions of the Linux kernel. Based on previously defined methodology and tools, data is presented on the distribution of authorship across modules, the degree of collaboration between authors, and the distribution, structure and inter-dependence of modules. Using successive versions as a proxy for time, the evolution of author contribution and module structure is also presented. Specific further analysis addresses two questions: the factors behind uncredited (unsigned) source code, and the changes in composition of the “core” and “periphery” author groups across successive versions. 1 Support for this research was provided by the Project on the Economic Organization and Viability of Open Source Software, which is funded under National Science Foundation Grant NSF IIS-0112962 to the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research.(see http://siepr.stanford.edu/programs/OpenSoftware_David/OS_Project_Funded_Announcmt.htm). Thanks to Kamini Aisola for creating the charts and data analysis.