This article from NewsForge almost begs the question; “Can women bring something new to OSS?” Speaking for myself, I think it is a possibility. Just so long as the ideas that are being brought forth are there to enhance and not criticize. If this can be kept up, I am sure that men could stand to learn a few things from many of the women out there.

The OSCON Open Source Convention wrapped up Friday with a feminine touch as some of the community’s most prominent women discussed the possibilities, problems, and parenthood aspects of open source software participation.

Although the panelists recognized that women stand to benefit from the newness of open source, they also discussed some negative aspects for the open source community’s women, who reportedly have higher representation in the proprietary software world, according to Cambridge University researcher and panelist Bernard Krieger. Panelists also noted that the more technical the role, the less likely a woman will be involved. However, women in attendance were encouraged by the turnout for the session and the attention around the issues of women in open source.

“It’s possible the open source community tends not to have the business paraphernalia other businesses do,” said Katrina Bassett, a developer for Catalyst IT who added the women involved in open source tend to be older than their male counterparts. These men can sometimes be intimidated by women who studies show are older, more educated, and even paid more than men in open source. [Read the rest]