Why are open-source CEOs so darn cute and cuddly?

Chris Keene, CEO of ActiveGrid, has an interesting take on the open-source CEO that I hadn't really considered before, but which I think has some validity: open-source CEOs tend to reflect the dynamics of open source, namely they are collaborative and somewhat (somewhat, mind you!) humble.

Open source CEOs don't see every other CEO/company as an enemy in their zero-sum strategy to take over the known software universe. They bring a community-minded approach not just to their technical work but also to their business activities.

You can't take this too far - there are jerks in open source just as there are in the proprietary software world. But I do think there's something to Chris' contention (ironic diction intended). The people I know in the open-source world are fiercely competitive...without being fierce. They are intent on winning without being obnoxious.

All of which makes open source - project or company - an enjoyable place to work.

[ctkeene]

Sure you're not thinking of Social Network CEOs?

Actually, I think social networking CEOs like Jay Adelson of Digg and Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook are much cuter than us open source guys, and therefore also more cuddly (although Marten Mickos of MySQL could hold his own with the Social Networking folks).

Thanks for picking up my blog post and adding some ironic contention!

[scottmace]

Marc Fleury was no teddy bear

Marc Fleury definitely was a "take no prisoners" open-source business leader where it involved his competitors. Even today, well after the Red Hat buyout and his exit, he takes pointed shots at them from his blog.