Introduction xix

Introduction xix Next, we describe each of these parts, offering short summaries of the chapters and suggesting key questions that the reader might bear in mind. Part I: Motivation in Free/Open Source Software Development Many first-time observers of the F/OSS phenomenon are startled by the simple fact that large numbers of highly skilled software developers (and users) dedicate tremendous amounts of time and effort to the creation, expansion, and ongoing maintenance of “free” products and services. This seemingly irrational behavior has captured the attention of reflective F/OSS community participants and observers.