LinuxInsider: Who Will Build Our Digital Future?

“As far as revolutions go, the opening salvo was muffled. But
for those within earshot, the reverberations were far- reaching.
Last month, China–the largest single potential market for almost
anything–selected an upstart computer-operating system called
Linux for installation on 1 million computers next year.
Ultimately, the country plans to install similar systems on 100
million to 200 million machines.

“But the deal represents much more than a software deal–or
China’s declaration of independence from software giant Microsoft.
Analysts say it marks a significant victory for an emerging way of
building things. Open and highly dispersed networks of motivated
people are organizing around galvanizing ideas, often offering
results of their work for free.

“Such collaborative networks have long been part of human
experience, from scientific research to terrorism. But as the
approach moves into the commercial realm, especially the software
business, it’s challenging fundamental notions about who owns ideas
and how best to foster innovation…”

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