The cooperative development of Linux

Linux is a UNIX clone being developed by a cooperative of software authors. The entire source code is freely distributable, protected by the Free Software Foundation "copyleft." The cooperative development of Linux is examined in detail. Emerging group dynamics are surveyed to find how the current Linus "club" came to assemble itself. The "club" model shows how the facilities of the Internet and USENET became their virutal meeting place. Analysis of current projects shows how the participants divide themselves into groups according to their interest, and work in these interlocked circles to add to the entire effort. The "club" model serves as a model for future software development using electronic communications.