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Method Diffusion in Large Open-Source Projects: A Study on Debian Project

This research report focuses on the method diffusion in the Debian project, one of the oldest and largest open-source projects. It explores the factors affecting the adoption of new methods by volunteers and aims to develop a framework to assess diffusions within Debian. The study utilizes grounded theory, community surveys, and a Delphi study to understand and improve workflows in the project, potentially providing insights into volunteer management. The current status includes a solid understanding of qualitative research, a complete thesis outline, and progress on literature review. For more information, visit the research webpage or contact the researcher via email.

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Method Diffusion in Large Open-Source Projects: A Study on Debian Project

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  1. Ph.D. research: Method diffusion in large open-source projects Martin F. Krafft – 23 Nov 2007 Research report

  2. One slide on the Debian project • oldest GNU/Linux distribution: 14 years • among the largest OSS projects: • 1,100 developers + 2,500 contributors • 22,000 packages, 11 architectures • conservative & quality-oriented: prefer solid solutions to quick 'n' dirty ones • robust, secure, stable, Free • 100% volunteers, flat, meritocratic

  3. Definitions Method diffusion inlarge open-source projects • method: technique, tool, procedure • diffusion: introducing with the goal to cause adoption • large project: possessing a high inertia and complex self-dynamics

  4. Research basis • Debian's methods evolved over time • high interdependence of methods • stagnating efficiency in day-to-day activity • improved methods exist, but volunteers cannot be told to use them • under what conditions do volunteers adopt new methods (and thus change their workflow)?

  5. Approach • Grounded theory: collection of factors affecting adoption (semi-structured interviews, forums, literature)‏ • Community survey to sort/augment factors • Design of an initial framework • Delphi study to improve framework • Application and verification

  6. Contribution • A framework to assess diffusions in Debian • (no suitable framework seems to exists)‏ • maybe suitable to other FLOSS projectsif not, then can be used to compare projects • Improved workflows in Debian • Possible new insights into volunteer management

  7. Current status • Gained good understanding of qualitative research and relevant aspects of sociology • Complete thesis outline • Literature review is about 50% done • Six talks at Debian/OSS conferences • Conducted seven informal interviews • Master to Ph.D. transfer later today

  8. Thank you / Further information • research webpage:http://phd.martin-krafft.net • Debian work:http://people.debian.org/~madduck • Debian book:http://debiansystem.info • mailto:phd@martin-krafft.netmailto:martin.krafft@lero.ie

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