[Osmf-talk] Interesting Points | Re: Funding of iD Development and Maintenance

[Mateusz Konieczny]

Aug 8, 2020, 08:43 by rory.mccann at osmfoundation.org:

> Hi Andy,
>
> You've certainly given me something to think about. It's very easily to accidentally mess up, even years later. Specific warnings like this are very useful for me.
>
> On 05/08/2020 14:55, Andy Allan wrote:
>
>> 1) The decision was made to make the SSRE job permanent from the
>> get-go, rather than other options such as a fixed-term contract. But
>> there's nothing to indicate that the Board have considered or
>> mitigated any risks, like around terminating the contract if we decide
>> that something different is required. Perhaps those risks were
>> discussed? But they haven't been shared.
>>
>
> We didn't discuss the specifics of that contract. permanent / fixed
> term. Yes, legally there is a difference, but in practice is it a large
> difference? We have the right to make a position redundant, and that
> might cost money, but it is very different from telling someone “we're
> not renewing your fixed term contract”? Either way, someone is pissed
> off, right?
>
Renewal of fixed term contract would be a natural point to consult OSM community,
with permanent job position there is no such point. 

>> 2) The iD contract will be funded by "earmarked donations from
>> companies, chapters and organisations", which notably leaves out
>> individuals.
>>
>
> I think it would be good for individuals to be able to contribute to this project, and I suggested that on the board.
>
> Perhaps we should set up a patreon/librapay/etc project? I haven't organised that because I was afraid that it would bring in a fraction of the money that a large corporate donor could give. Unfortunately.
>
> So organising a way for individuals to financially contribute is good, but I think the big corps would still have the majority of the power. ☹
>
Bigger diversity is always good, though patreon specifically may have its own issues and
may not fit funding organization.

It would be good to at least try fundraising also from individuals, even if that would be mostly symbolic.
And there is also chance of it not being symbolic if it will take of or will end with some equivalent
of Pineapple Fund.
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