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IBM Patents Method For Paying Open Source Workers

Posted by simoniker on from the i-heart-patents dept.

Frequanaut writes "Oh, the bitter, bitter irony. According to The Inquirer, in a strange move, IBM has patented a method for paying open source volunteers. By the way, if the future of software development is open source, how will anyone get paid when only IBM can do it?" The Inquirer quizzically notes, with regard to this patent: "It may be an ingenious way of paying open source developers and volunteers, Big Blue, but can it really be described as an invention?"

3 of 426 comments (clear)

  1. So what? by chill · · Score: 3, Informative

    It is a patent on A method, not the only method.

    With the way the current business world works, anything that can be patented needs to be, if nothing else but for the defensive value.

    IBM, who I believe is the #1 patent holder in the world, knows this better than anyone.

    --
    Learning HOW to think is more important than learning WHAT to think.
  2. Re:The fault: The IBM patent reward system by nedwidek · · Score: 5, Informative
    Speaking as an IBM employee, you've only got part of that right. Yes there are monetary rewards for a filing and then when the patent is awarded, but you're 100% wrong when it comes to the spamming. Each division at each site has a patent review board. You have to first convince this board that you are on to something (Having been involved in the process I can say it is not easy and most get shot down at this point). Next you are referred to IBM legal for the writing of the patent application and a prior art search. Only if you've made it to this point does the filing go in.

    If you work at IBM and want to make bonus money it is much easier to write articles at Developer Works and get recognition through the Author Awards Program.

    --
    Post anonymously - For when your opinion embarrasses even you!
  3. Re:I worked for IBM and you are WRONG by ciggieposeur · · Score: 3, Informative

    I was laid off in the last Software Group batch (Dec 19). Patents are still compensated something like $1000/pop. Every project cycle before and after the patent evangelist shows up to ask all the developers if anything can be filed. The laywers will often split patents into two filings (for example one for screen I/O and one for printed I/O).

    I know several IBMers that have abused the patent office by filing obvious claims and been rewarded thousands of dollars by the company. Most have been promoted to managers.

    And now I don't have to post anonymously anymore! Don't y'all feel a little silly being unable to discuss IBM's policies with you own names? I mean y'all are just saying what the BOV instructor did when you were hired on.