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SRC012 — https://openssf.org/blog/2024/01/31/maintainer-motivations-challenges-and-best-practices-on-open-source-software-security/

Contents

Metadata

Field Value
URL https://openssf.org/blog/2024/01/31/maintainer-motivations-challenges-and-best-practices-on-open-source-software-security/
Authors Anna Hermansen, Linux Foundation Research
Date 2024-01-31

Content Summary

Linux Foundation survey of OSS maintainers finding 72% are optimistic about security. Top approach for evaluating security is SCA and SAST tools. 39% still do manual code review. 69% want defined best practices. Primary motivation for maintaining OSS is enjoyment of learning. 49% want employer incentives.

Reliability: High

Linux Foundation research report based on survey data from the OSS maintainer community.

Relevance: High

Directly addresses Q002 with maintainer perspectives on security tooling, barriers, and desired improvements.

Bias Assessment

Domain Rating Rationale
Missing Data Some concerns Response rate and sample size not specified in the blog summary.
Measurement Low risk Survey-based with structured questions.
Selective Reporting Low risk Reports both positive (72% optimistic) and concerning (39% manual review only) findings.
Randomization N/A Not an RCT.
Protocol Deviation N/A Not an RCT.
Conflict Of Interest Low risk Linux Foundation is a non-profit with broad stakeholder governance.

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