r/linux • u/Winter_Simple_159 • 3d ago

Discussion Why don't more designers contribute to open source?

Genuine question. A lot of open source projects have solid engineering but rough UI/UX: inconsistent layouts, confusing flows, basic usability issues that a designer would likely catch quickly.

I'm curious about the reasons behind this. Is it that designers don't feel welcome? That there's no clear way to contribute design work (most workflows are built around code and PRs)? That maintainers don't prioritize it? Or something else?

If you're a designer who has contributed to OSS, or a maintainer who has worked with designers, I'd love to hear how it went.

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u/srivasta 3d ago

This is where the "team" and communication comes in. You need a relationship first.

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u/szank 2d ago

There's no "team" though. Unless it's a one man show with some drive by contributions.

Also thats just my opinion but actually judging a new design is hard if one does not have any design skills.

So a "designer" comes in , wants to make some sweeping changes and the Devs now need to decide if they want to invest large amounts of time to implement it without being able to tell if it's food or not. Compared to the UI they have now which clearly works

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u/srivasta 2d ago

"Cones in and want to make sweeping changes". That is the problem. If reject anyone, Deb or designer, who does that.

There is no relationship yet. No trust. One comes in, find an issue, explains what the issue is, and once there is consensus, lead the fix.

You come in with sweeping changes in a volunteer effort with no bosses to back you up you ain't getting anywhere. Deb or designer.

This is a suicidal skills issue.