The State of Diversity and Inclusion in Apache: A Pulse Check

Zixuan Feng, Mariam Guizani, Marco A. Gerosa, Anita Sarma

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Diversity and inclusion (D&I) in open source software (OSS) is a multifaceted concept that arises from differences in contributors' gender, seniority, language, region, and other characteristics. D&I has received growing attention in OSS ecosystems and projects, and various programs have been implemented to foster contributor diversity. However, we do not yet know how the state of D&I is evolving. By understanding the state of D&I in OSS projects, the community can develop new and adjust current strategies to foster diversity among contributors and gain insights into the mechanisms and processes that facilitate the development of inclusive communities. In this paper, we report and compare the results of two surveys of Apache Software Foundation (ASF) contributors conducted over two years (n=624 & n=432), considering a variety of D&I aspects. We see improvements in engagement among those traditionally underrepresented in OSS, particularly those who are in gender minority or not confident in English. Yet, the gender gap in the number of contributors remains. We expect this study to help communities tailor their efforts in promoting D&I in OSS.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings - 2023 IEEE/ACM 16th International Conference on Cooperative and Human Aspects of Software Engineering, CHASE 2023
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
Pages150-160
Number of pages11
ISBN (Electronic)9798350337341
DOIs
StatePublished - 2023
Externally publishedYes
Event16th IEEE/ACM International Conference on Cooperative and Human Aspects of Software Engineering, CHASE 2023 - Melbourne, Australia
Duration: May 14 2023May 15 2023

Publication series

NameProceedings - 2023 IEEE/ACM 16th International Conference on Cooperative and Human Aspects of Software Engineering, CHASE 2023

Conference

Conference16th IEEE/ACM International Conference on Cooperative and Human Aspects of Software Engineering, CHASE 2023
Country/TerritoryAustralia
CityMelbourne
Period5/14/235/15/23

Keywords

  • Apache
  • D&I initiative
  • Diversity
  • Open source

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management
  • Software
  • Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality
  • Social Psychology

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