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.

35 Years of Linux

How did a hobby project evolve into the open source engine of global infrastructure? The milestone report by LF Research examines the kernel’s historic and organic evolution as well as its present-day impact. 

 

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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

The State of Open Standards: Standardization and Patents in Organizations

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Following last year’s inaugural investigation into open source standards, the 2024 survey-based report builds on our understanding of how organizations perceive and engage with technical standards, with a focus on the economic value of open standards.
 
The findings of the 2024 survey challenge existing views on patents and innovation, demonstrating that organizations highly value royalty-free open standards in order to capitalize on benefits such as avoiding vendor lock-in, promoting market maturity, and encouraging innovation. In this sense, organizations do not view royalty-free standards as a threat to their business models. Instead, engagement in open, collaborative activities is seen as a key indicator of innovation.
 
These findings have significant implications for how organizations approach innovation, standardization, and intellectual property management. Read the full report to learn how you can reassess your patent and standards strategies!
 
Authors
  • Jory Burson, The Linux Foundation
  • Marco Gerosa, Ph.D., Northern Arizona University
  • Foreword by Melissa Evers, Intel
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