Re: FW: Open Source Developer Exchange (Economics)

I agree with Benjamin, just throwing in a bit of my own spin...

Benjamin J. Tilly wrote:

>Therefore I would say that NewCo should reserve a large role for itself in project
>management on every project.  No exceptions.  The exact role will vary, but serves
>the following purposes:
>
>1. Make sure that all parties are clear on what has been agreed to.
>
Milestones/project landmarks and pay landmarks. One size doesn't fit 
all, so... each contract will have to be looked at seriously. Project 
Management like this can be a time consuming task; make sure you have 
enough time!

>2. Make sure that what has been agreed to is realistic.
>
See above. Also, realize that the whole thing can change at landmarks - 
or in between landmarks. And that email isn't always the best medium for 
diplomacy.

>4. Make sure that there is a record of important communications available in case
>   there is a later communication breakdown.
>
Some things may require signed documents, so you have configuration 
management. An adapted CVS might to this, but again - this is a lot of 
work with a few different projects happening at the same time.

>5. Pro-actively head off possible conflicts, and if they do happen, offer dispute
>   resolution.  This is expensive, yes.  But less expensive than project failure.
>
Full time job. :o This is where you may need separate account reps.

I see a lot more overhead here than one would initially think - make 
sure that you can cover these costs and manpower requirements. The more 
I read about this, the more leery I am. In your shoes, I might still do 
it (maybe even in mine too, but I'm too busy lol).

All the input on this has been really interesting, but what Benjamin 
wrote really struck some chords with me for some reason.

HTH

Taran
http://www.knowprose.com