Open Source Software: Debian

This lecture introduces the two main software distribution models: proprietary software, where the code is kept secret and sold through licenses, and open-source software, exemplified by Debian, a Linux distribution developed collaboratively by a community of thousands of volunteers. The lecture explores the organizational structure of Debian, highlighting its horizontal organization with minimal hierarchy. It also delves into the role of the Debian Project Leader in facilitating communication and conflict resolution within the community. The importance of contributing to existing codebases and setting up a development environment with bug tracking and continuous integration is emphasized, along with the gamification of software development to motivate contributors.