From open source pioneer to just another enterprise software company
Pros
- There are still many experienced and highly capable engineers around—people who care deeply about their craft and the open source world. If you're on a good team, you can learn a lot. - Some teams offer genuine opportunities to make meaningful contributions and have an impact, even within the constraints of a large organization. -Quarterly bonuses are a nice perk and have remained relatively consistent.
Cons
- Like many others have noted, the company has shifted significantly over the past decade. The focus has moved away from genuine community-driven open source development toward profit maximization and maintaining market relevance. That original hacker ethos feels like it's fading. - Team experiences vary, but micromanagement has increased substantially in recent years. This is often presented as part of a broader “agile transformation,” but in practice, it can feel disempowering. Engineers are increasingly seen as interchangeable parts rather than valued contributors. - The company’s commitment to open source has become more of a brand strategy than a core principle. Key projects that were once vibrant and transparent are now gated, delayed, or restricted in ways that align more with proprietary models. It's a broader industry trend, sure—but disappointing to see from a company that once stood apart. - Work/life balance can be tough, especially during crunch periods. Burnout is not uncommon. - Career advancement feels inconsistent. Recognition doesn't always follow effort, and the promotion process can be opaque or stagnant.