Integrating Open Source into De Jure Standardization: Beyond a Call for the Appropriate License

Abstract

For many years the unprecedented innovation in the telecommunications technology has been possible thanks to the work done in standard development organizations (SDOs). Such success is mainly owed to the fact that SDOs have managed to attract many participants from different business models and to offer open access to interoperable high-performance technology in exchange for a fair return on investment. Looking forward, to achieve a well-functioning Internet of Things, where billions of devices from diverse industry sectors will be connected, some have advocated incorporating the perceived cheap, quick and efficient Open Source Software development into de jure standardization. This paper will analyze the potential synergies between Open Source and traditional open standards developed in SDOs and propose solutions to harmonize the different IPR Policies to attract as many stakeholders as possible.

Keywords: standard development organizations, SDOs, de jure standardization, open source software, IPR