How come developers often successfully collaborate to build open source software, but designers hardly ever work to create open user interfaces and experiences?

Is UX design simply not suited to open collaboration? Or are there other reasons?

One thing’s for sure – we’re not doing it right yet, and it’s clearly a problem worth working on. The good people at Mozilla labs have taken it up – you’ve probably already seen the initial concept series program, out of which came the Seabird concept phone (by Billy May).

So, here’s the interesting bit – Mozilla Labs are looking for new methods, techniques and processes for encouraging community participation. Check out Desigan Chinniah’s recent post – this strikes me as something that could evolve into something really wonderful. This program needs our involvement for it to work. Get stuck in and join the discussion!