Why TypeScript Had to Be Open Source
Anders Hejlsberg discusses with GitHub the pivotal decision at Microsoft to open source TypeScript, explaining why community-driven development mattered for the language's success.
Why TypeScript Had to Be Open Source
In this video, legendary programming language designer Anders Hejlsberg discusses the internal struggles within Microsoft regarding the open-sourcing of TypeScript. Hejlsberg explains the rationale for making TypeScript open source, highlighting that a commercial, closed-source approach would have significantly limited adoption and community contribution.
Key Topics
- Internal Struggle at Microsoft: Hejlsberg reveals the intense internal debates leading up to the decision.
- Importance of Open Source: He argues that openness was essential for credibility and community trust, allowing TypeScript to be used widely outside Microsoft.
- GitHub Migration: Moving TypeScript development to GitHub in 2014 was a turning point. This enabled direct contributions from the global developer community and improved transparency.
- Downsides of Closed Source: The video covers why a proprietary approach would have restricted feedback channels and hindered adoption.
Links and Further Resources
About the Speaker
Anders Hejlsberg is the original designer of TypeScript and has played major roles in the development of C# and Turbo Pascal.
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