ABSTRACT
FL/OSS development generates an endless stream of publicly accessible data. Changes to the software are organized and recorded through the use of online tools that help manage the contributions of dozens-and, in some cases, hundreds-of developers. Debates and discussions are recorded on publicly accessible mailing lists. Developers express their views and give an account of their activities on personal blogs. The public image of large-scale projects is communicated through their offi cial web pages which provide detailed information on the rules and norms of participation. Smaller projects are hosted on FL/OSS project foundries which provide aggregate data on the activity of projects they host. Curiosity about the motives of FL/OSS developers has spurred numerous studies, including a number of large-scale online surveys.
