Revitalizing Open Source: Investigating the Potential of Sabbaticals for Contributor Sustainability in OSS Projects

Presenter

Emma Michele Azzi

Group Members

Aryaman Dora Tepal, Elizabeth Jean Edminster

Campus

UMass Amherst

Sponsor

Brenda K. Bushouse, Department of School of Public Policy, UMass Amherst

Schedule

Session 2, 11:30 AM - 12:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board A51, Campus Center Auditorium, Row 3 (A41-A60) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

Open Source Software (OSS) projects such as Linux Kernel, Git, Apache, and MySQL, rely heavily on volunteers and their sustained engagement. This study explores the effectiveness of sabbaticals, defined as extended breaks from project contributions, in mitigating volunteer burnout and enhancing long-term participation in OSS projects. By analyzing temporal contribution patterns across numerous projects and contributors, the study addresses a key question: Can sabbaticals revive contributors and fortify project outcomes?

Using publicly available OSS project contribution data and statistical modeling, the study tracks activity levels pre- and post-sabbatical, assessing the interplay between contributor breaks and project momentum. Initial findings suggest a promising correlation between sabbaticals and subsequent increases in code commits.  This may indicate potential benefits for project success and sustained volunteer vitality. However, further investigation is needed to draw definitive conclusions and untangle contributing factors like personal growth and team dynamics.

These insights challenge the conventional view that project breaks are detrimental to engagement, prompting a reevaluation of established norms. The study advocates for a nuanced approach to volunteer management in OSS, suggesting that well-timed sabbaticals could be crucial in fostering a thriving and sustainable open-source ecosystem. In essence, sabbaticals emerge as powerful catalysts for rejuvenating contributors and propelling OSS project success, challenging the notion that time away dampens project momentum. This calls for a deeper exploration of strategies prioritizing contributor sustainability to ensure the enduring success of OSS projects.

Keywords

Open-Source Software, ⁠OSS Contributor Stability, ⁠Sabbatical Impact, Burnout Mitigation, OSS ⁠Project health and momentum

Research Area

Web/Software Development

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