Research trends in free software development: a research agenda

Abstract

The development of free software has attracted increasing academic interest, consolidating its status as a field of study characterised by substantial scientific production. This study, grounded in a systematic review of the extant literature employing the PRISMA 2020 methodology, aims to establish a comprehensive framework of knowledge in this domain and identify research gaps. The results demonstrate a sustained increase in the number of publications, with periods of greater activity linked to the adoption of collaborative models and the rise of platforms such as GitHub. A core of authors and institutions has been identified with a significant contribution to the theoretical development of free software, although with a geographical distribution concentrated in certain regions. Likewise, the most cited studies have been fundamental for the consolidation of methodological approaches and practical applications. The analysis of keywords highlights the centrality of collaboration in the free software ecosystem, reflecting a change in the dynamics of development and dissemination of knowledge. These findings emphasise the need to strengthen research around open models and their impact on industry, education and digital governance.