GitHub Developer Report Shows That DEVs Love Open Source

Career AdviceCareer

Tech enthusiasts could be doing any number of things with their free time, but as GitHub's developer report makes clear, many of them choose to spend their nights and weekends working on open source projects.

GitHub administrators, who analyzed millions of repositories for the report, reveal that enterprise-related developer activity decreases on weekends and holidays (as expected), but this is replaced by an increase in open source development. GitHub, not very surprisingly, suggests employers encourage the urge of their developers if the want to contribute to projects that interest them.

With DEVs stuck at home during the COVID-19 pandemic, open source engagement has increased - GitHub notes that open source project creation is up 25 percent since April 2020.

For DEVs, starting and participating in open source projects includes another benefit: the opportunity to collaborate with people with similar interests. Remember, building a network is an invaluable part of your career boost.

With the pandemic over, GitHub predicts that "remote and hybrid environments are likely to be the norm" as teams return to the office. Employers will be required to provide "flexible solutions" so developers can create schedules that make work sustainable. If the long months of remote work have taught the tech industry anything, it's that workloads can increase quickly unless there are conscious efforts to keep work and life balanced.

If you're considering updating your resume and other materials this year, highlighting your participation in open source projects can increase your appeal to employers. Your contribution to open source projects doesn't just show that you have the technical skills needed for the position you want. It also shows how your passion for technology extends beyond the workplace. When a developer uses their free time to contribute to an open source project, they are not only having fun, but also furthering their career.