Just trying to take it all in.

I’m frustrated.

I would love be involved with OpenSim, an open source virtual world server project. I want to fix bugs and add features so that I can do cool stuff with Eye Ree on osgrid.org.

But I work for Microsoft and Microsoft has rules and procedures for using or contributing to an open source project. Unfortunately they seem to apply even to what I do on my own time and even when my job doesn’t currently have anything to do with the open source projects I would work on.

I will work the process, but it takes time and involves both lawyer and executive types. These people are responsible for protecting Microsoft’s IP. My interests and desires aren’t really part of their equations. It is much easier, and safer, for them to say “no” than to say “yes.” So in the end I don’t expect a positive outcome.

I could find a new job, or hide my activity, or hope nobody notices or cares. But I’ve got a family and responsibilities. I’ve invested a lot in my career at Microsoft. Is being able to hack on OpenSim worth the disruption or risk? I suppose not, but should I really have to make a choice between a job and a hobby just because both involve software?

I can go over all the arguments on all the sides of the big picture issues involved here, and I am becoming more involved with internal efforts to foster change. But none of that lets me hack away on OpenSim without reservation.

As I said, I’m frustrated.

UPDATE: A few weeks ago the lawyers said this qualified as moonlighting and is covered by that section of the HR rule book. So, since I don’t see how my helping out with OpenSim violates those rules, I did this.