Industrial Experience with Open Source Software Process Management

The usage of external open source software components can improve proprietary software in multiple ways, such as higher quality, lower cost, and faster time-to-market. But in order to fully benefit from its usage there are some important aspects to take into account, as well as significant risks to specifically manage to avoid potential legal consequences. This paper lays out the foundations for a process framework that successfully manages those risks and addresses the intrinsic aspects of open source software usage. Furthermore, it proposes a well-proven basis and best practices for corporate governance, policy, strategy, and process implementation.