How do they do it?

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[Tam]

Since I've gotten involved in web design (a very short time) I have been able to download the most amazing programs for free. SMF, Tiny Portal, The Gimp, Smart FTP and there are so many others out there.

On most other sites that offer free services, you find ads and I always assume costs to run the site are offset by those ads. I don't understand how sites like SMF and TP can afford the costs of maintaining such heavily trafficked sites without any significant ad campaign that I can see.

Does anyone know how they do it? I have to confess, I feel a bit guilty receiving such wonderful products for free and I hope they do receive compensation for all the hard work the do.

[命ebelRose]

Donations, charter memberships things like that.

[Tam]

Wow. Hard to believe that can amount to much. Good for them.

[Animal]

Wow. Hard to believe that can amount to much. Good for them.

It really doesn't amount to much.  I think most do it out of a love for free software.  The makers of SMF and Tiny Portal are a great bunch of people.  Of course they are happy to receive a donation, but they don't do it for the money, or glamor.

I respect these guys fully, and am grateful to learn from them.  I return help where I can.  (Most of the time I can't help due to a lack of knowledge) 

[Skhilled]

SMF was created in the spirit of giving. So, most of those who use it return the favor in kind. If you truly appreciate something either donate or just help out wherever you can. If you do not know enough to help yet learn what you can then return the favor 

[Tam]

Very good advice, Skhilled and goes right along with what RebelRose wrote in her article, 'Jewels of the Internet'. I've noticed a very friendly community of folks that offer their advice on a network of forums. Not only is it a great help, but also serves as a good example of the kind of webmasters we all want on the web.