HACKER Q&A
📣 kevinjsm

Making an organization focused on making modern and efficient apps


Many applications worldwide can be categorized into closed-source and open-source. Closed-source apps are often premium, boasting fancy UIs and monetized through subscriptions, ads, etc. On the contrary, open-source apps are typically more efficient but may lack long-term support and have outdated UIs or other drawbacks. While this doesn't encompass all applications, it does represent a significant portion, perhaps around 60%.

I'm contemplating establishing an organization, possibly on GitHub or other suitable platforms, with a focus on rewriting everyday apps to strike a balance between closed-source and open-source models. The aim is to develop aesthetically pleasing, well-supported apps that remain free and prioritize user privacy (no data selling).

This organization would be small, mainly comprising daily or semi-daily contributors who would hold significant decision-making authority. They would collect donations, which, after covering all app expenses, would primarily support their time investment. While anyone is welcome to contribute, participation would be voluntary, with contributors enhancing apps they are passionate about.

The sole revenue source would be donations, as I don't believe there are any other viable options.

Additionally, the organization would prioritize making apps available in multiple languages, ensuring they are not specific to any particular country or region, not like a "Made in America" or "Made in China" approach, it's just for the whole world.

Specific platforms and tools would be agreed upon so apps would be consistent.

I haven't initiated anything yet, but is this a viable idea? Can a specific number of people contribute? Would donations alone cover such expenses? Would people be willing to donate? Or is this merely a fictional concept?


  👤 smoldesu Accepted Answer ✓
Vaguely reminds me of the KDE ECO effort: https://eco.kde.org/