LINUX FOUNDATION RESEARCH

We’re investigating the impact of open source collaboration to solve the world’s most pressing challenges.

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About LF Research

LF Research publishes actionable and decision-useful insights into open source software, hardware, standards, and data based on empirical research methodologies. Through leveraging community networks, project databases, surveys, and qualitative findings, and through its commitment to best practices in primary research, Linux Foundation Research is the definitive home for data-driven insights into open source for the benefit of governments, enterprises, and society at large.

ROI for Open Source Software Contribution

What is the benefit of contributing to open source? In this study, LF Research has tackled this question through the analysis of results from a survey and quantitative model on contribution ROI. 

 

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Participate in Our Research

Join the LF Research Forum and participate in our surveys and interviews to give back to your community and earn events & training discounts!

 

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Interested in conducting research?

Review our prospectus for more information, and email us at research@linuxfoundation.org

 

2025 Napa LFMS Stephanie Hilary Nithya

Open Source and the Future of AI

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In February 2026, the Linux Foundation convened a group of key stakeholders to discuss the main priorities and challenges brought on by the growing use of generative AI and agents. The discussion centered on four main topics: trust and identity, security and privacy, agentic AI in regulated industries, and open source in agentic AI.
 
Existential questions emerged alongside technical ones, and the group adjourned with some recommendations for agent development to progress sustainably and ethically. These include:
  • Establishing accountability and legal frameworks
  • Standardizing vocabulary and decision-making
  • Modernizing security scaffolding to meet the new capabilities of agents
  • Supporting the open source community
Read the summary report for more details on the questions that leadership is asking and the suggestions they are making for a better agentified future.
 
Authors
  • Hilary Carter, The Linux Foundation
  • Anna Hermansen, The Linux Foundation

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