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Automattic is doing open source dirty - DHHworld.hey.com/dhh/automattic-is-doing-open-source-dirty-b95cf128
540 sats \ 4 comments \ @kepford 9 Oct tech
Automattic demanding 8% of WP Engine's revenues because they're not "giving back enough" to WordPress is a wanton violation of general open source ideals and the specifics of the GPL license. Automattic is completely out of line, and the potential damage to the open source world extends far beyond the WordPress. Don't let the drama or its characters distract you from that threat.
That's the deal. That's open source. I give you a gift of code, you accept the terms of the license. There cannot be a second set of shadow obligations that might suddenly apply, if you strike it rich using the software. Then the license is meaningless, the clarity all muddled, and certainty lost.
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0 sats \ 3 replies \ @Lumor 9 Oct
I think it comes down to the other company infringing on trademarks & branding.
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21 sats \ 2 replies \ @kepford OP 9 Oct
If you listen to Matt (WordPress) that is what he says. But the deeper problem is what DHH is pointing out. This idea that a company must contribute to the project. Matt threatened WP Engine offering to back off if they pledged to donate money to the WordPress Foundation.
This is not good for Open Source IMO. While I do think WP Engine should support the project they are not legally required to do so. WordPress could be relicensed to require this.
DHH is right about this setting a negative tone for open source projects. Strategically it's bad for OSS.
The right way to get support for OSS projects is to ask. Not demand and threaten.
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0 sats \ 1 reply \ @Lumor 10 Oct
I like many if not most of DHH's takes, just think Matt Mullenweg has some points. WP Engine are really leaning on community/Automattic resources. Listening back I disagree with Matt in that he should be able to dictate exactly 8% of another company's income though. https://youtu.be/H6F0PgMcKWM
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100 sats \ 0 replies \ @kepford OP 10 Oct
Matt does have good points. I don't disagree. Matt can't under the current legal framework dictate what is "fair".
Honestly, both sides look bad to me. WP Engine should be supporting Wordpress if for no other reason than it is in their interest. I think Matt has a point about WP Engine missing this. I just think the way Matt went about this is really poorly thought out.
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