Re: Code donations for RPGUI initiative

On Jan 9, 2010, at 6:31 AM, web400-request@xxxxxxxxxxxx wrote:

From: Jon Paris
Problem with publishing ... is the truly silly amount you get ... 20% ...
One of many reasons why I have never published a book!

Right. Open-source goes even further - serving the interests of publishers, promoters, and those who manage the public repository - it puts them in a position to provide services comparable to Red Hat & Novell. Open-source is widely reaching in part because the majority of people are led to believe that they get something for nothing. Individual original authors (contributors to the repository) get the shaft. Does anyone believe in the traditional approach to growing a business on a fair and trustworthy quid pro quo basis? Hmmm ... must be feeling unpleasant tonight.

I think you must be Nathan - my intent was the exact opposite. I don't believe open-source "shafts" anyone. One has a choice as to whether to contribute or not - if you contribute and get nothing from it how is that being shafted?

Many have made money from an open source foundation. You mention Red Hat, and of course SugarCRM, MySQL, Zend, and many others haven't done badly.

My point was that given how little money the average author (of books) makes, you might as well give it away for free - hope it goes viral and that you will subsequently make money by printing hard-copy for those who want it (and make 60% plus of the full price) and by the consulting and teaching opportunities it provides. If I ever get round to it, I'll let you know how it works out!


Jon Paris

www.Partner400.com
www.SystemiDeveloper.com