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This page is generated from the source Markdown file so it can be viewed inside the MkDocs site.

📝 Page Status: Draft — sourced but not yet reviewed

  • Status: draft
  • Sources: 2
  • Relationships: 2
  • Research debt items: 3
  • Last verified: 2026-06-25

Open Source Initiative

Summary

The Open Source Initiative is a non-profit corporation with global scope formed to educate about and advocate for the benefits of open source software.

Verified Facts

  • The official about page describes OSI as a non-profit corporation with global scope formed to educate about and advocate for the benefits of open source and to build bridges among different constituencies in the open source community.
  • The official history page states OSI was jointly founded by Eric Raymond and Bruce Perens in late February 1998, with Raymond as its first president and Perens as vice-president.
  • The initial Board of Directors included Brian Behlendorf, Ian Murdock, Russ Nelson, and Chip Salzenberg.
  • OSI is the steward of the Open Source Definition, which sets the foundation for the open source software ecosystem.

Public Contact Information

Relevance to Open Source and Software Companies

OSI is the authoritative body that maintains the Open Source Definition, which defines what qualifies as an open source license. Companies releasing open source software or using open source licensing benefit from OSI's educational resources, advocacy, and network of affiliate organizations. OSI's work helps establish and protect the legal and community norms around open source.

Relationships

Sources

Research Debt

  • Add details on the Open Source Definition and its legal significance.
  • Document OSI's affiliate organizations network.
  • Add information about license review process relevant to software companies.