Time Flies When You're Porting

Since accepting the invitation, I've gained new insight into the OpenBSD project and the people behind it. I can't overstate how diligently the developers work to make a great product where everything is "just right" and "just works". My respect for the team and development process has increased after witnessing internal discussions where rigorous debate is not only accepted, but expected.

My work is focused on third party software ported to OpenBSD and collectively referred to as the ports tree. Aside from the handful of ports I maintain, I also enjoy tackling Perl modules with significant dependency chains. I use Mercurial patch queues to manage my changes until they are committed to OpenBSD CVS server.

I have felt compelled to put more effort into the project now that I have more skin in the game. It's a treat to be surrounded by other volunteers who feel likewise. The OpenBSD developers are demanding, exacting, and intensely knowledgeable. It's refreshing to work with them and fun to be challenged again.

Related articles

• Why OpenBSD's Release Process Works (tech.slashdot.org)