[Osmf-talk] Framework for the foundation's hiring practices

[Thomas Skowron]

My impression is that we struggle with our own identity: Yes, OSM has been established by volunteers and without them nothing of this would exist, ever, but this seems to lead us into the fallacy that running it must be therefore a volunteers' job indefinitely. Which - by the way - I find interesting, since several people commenting here already have a personal benefit through OSM.

The reason I love OSM is not because some mega corp is using it, but I am certainly proud of our wealth and growth, even if my role has been minor. But let’s not forget that there are several key people who have an OSM unrelated day job, but they still spend a lot of their free time keeping us alive. But this is not for free: It’s taking a toll on their personal lives. Many of us have had experiences with some hard-working community members that have been overly grumpy, because they’re overworked. And as long as we say “Let’s not pay anyone, otherwise we might grow” we actively pushing into that direction.

So, in short: Yes, I do agree with the board’s direction and looking at your considerations I believe that you will do the right thing.

— Thomas