Bountysource Platform and Its Recent Shifts

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Bountysource is a popular platform for open-source projects, where developers can offer bounties for specific tasks or bugs.

In 2015, Bountysource launched its platform, initially focusing on bug bounty programs.

The platform has since shifted its focus to include a wider range of open-source projects, such as feature requests and code reviews.

By doing so, Bountysource has expanded its reach and appeal to a broader audience of developers and project maintainers.

What's Changing?

We've made a significant change to the Bounties section of the agreement. A Time-Out clause has been added.

If a Bounty isn't accepted within two years, it will be withdrawn and the amount posted will be retained by Bountysource. The time limit applies to all Bounties posted after a certain date.

You can redeploy your Bounty to a new Issue if it was posted before June 30, 2018. You must contact [email protected] before July 1, 2020, to do so.

Bountysource

Bountysource is a platform that facilitates collaboration and funding for open-source software development projects. It allows developers to create and manage bounties, which are financial incentives for completing specific coding tasks or resolving issues within open-source projects.

Credit: youtube.com, Bountysource Browser Extension

Bountysource provides a structured environment where developers can contribute to projects they are passionate about, while also earning rewards for their work. The platform supports collaboration by providing tools for communication and issue tracking.

The platform was launched in 2003, but was relaunched in 2012 to also support crowdfunding. It integrates with GitHub, allowing users to track project progress and engage with a community of developers.

Withdrawal of New TOS

Bountysource has withdrawn its new Terms of Service agreement, reverting back to its previous state.

The company had planned to revise and clarify the Terms of Service in the future, but the withdrawal of the new agreement has raised concerns about the future of Bountysource as a platform.

Bountysource was acquired by CanYa, a cryptocurrency company, in December 2017, which led to a redesign of the site and service with a new cryptocoin focus.

This acquisition has been a source of friction for users, who are concerned that funds are being automatically scooped up by corporate stakeholders rather than going to developers.

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Bountysource has removed its integration with elementary repos on GitHub, and the company has withdrawn its funds and closed its account.

Backers and bounty hunters on Bountysource will have their bounties on elementary projects automatically returned to them, and they may also wish to withdraw any funds and close their account by emailing [email protected].

Description

Bounties are usually offered as an incentive for fixing software bugs or implementing minor features. This business model is one of the ways open-source software is developed.

The compensation offered for an open-source bounty is usually small. This approach allows developers to contribute to open-source projects while earning rewards for their work.

Bounties can be offered for a variety of tasks, such as fixing software bugs or implementing minor features. By providing a financial incentive, bounties encourage developers to contribute to open-source projects.

Here are some characteristics of open-source bounties:

  • Open source
  • Grants (money)
  • Philanthropy
  • Free and open-source software stubs

Carole Veum

Junior Writer

Carole Veum is a seasoned writer with a keen eye for detail and a passion for financial journalism. Her work has appeared in several notable publications, covering a range of topics including banking and mergers and acquisitions. Veum's articles on the Banks of Kenya provide a comprehensive understanding of the local financial landscape, while her pieces on 2013 Mergers and Acquisitions offer insightful analysis of significant corporate transactions.

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