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The Foundation Behind the Framework

· 3 min read
Miikka Solmela
Miikka Solmela
Executive Director, Robot Framework Foundation

Why Robot Framework works (and keeps getting better)

Let’s be blunt: open source doesn’t magically maintain itself. Someone has to pay for infrastructure, review PRs, fund development, organize the community, and make real decisions. For Robot Framework, that “someone” is the Robot Framework Foundation.

And it works.

But it didn’t always look like this.

A Quick Flashback: Three Years Ago​

Back in 2022, I wrote this blog post to explain what the Foundation is, how we operate, and why it matters.

Since then?

We’ve grown. We’ve improved. And frankly, we’ve become a textbook example of how open source can be supported — without selling out.

So, What Is the Robot Framework Foundation?​

In legal terms, it’s a non-profit association based in Finland. In practical terms, it’s a structured, democratic, community-driven machine that exists solely to keep Robot Framework strong, stable, and evolving.

  • We fund and manage development of Robot Framework core.
  • We maintain the infrastructure that makes everything run: robotframework.org, Slack, the Newsletter, and more.
  • We organize RoboCon, support community education, maintain documentation, and manage certification programs.
  • We run a real governance model: elected board, transparent processes, community-first decisions.

It’s not flashy. It’s just functional. And it works because of the members.

Screenshot from robotframework.org frontpage.

Open Source + Real Governance = Sustainable Development​

We’ve all seen open source projects collapse under the weight of success. No plan. No governance. No way to scale.

We took a different path.

Our governance model is based on clarity, transparency, and actual rules. There’s a board of directors, elected by the members. Association meetings define the annual roadmap and budget. Workgroups take responsibility for key areas — from conference planning to core development. Anyone in the community can join and contribute.

It’s not perfect. But it’s consistent. It’s accountable. And it’s always improving.

Why the Foundation Model Matters​

Without the Foundation, there would be no RoboCon. No certification program. No funding for releases. No roadmap. No full-time maintenance. No Slack community with over 33,000 members.

The Foundation exists so Robot Framework isn’t just another abandoned GitHub project.

It keeps the tool:

  • Free and open
  • Actively developed
  • Technically stable
  • Community-driven

If your company or organization uses Robot Framework, the Foundation is already working for you — whether you realize it or not.

Why You (Yes, You) Should Join​

Our members — companies, organizations, and foundations — are committed to ensuring Robot Framework remains strong and free.

Joining means:

  • You get visibility.
  • You support a sustainable future for the tool you rely on.
  • You help steer the direction of Robot Framework.
  • You contribute to improving the tool.
  • You have a voice in which features get built.
  • You support open-source software the right way.

Join the Foundation. Simple as that.

Final Word: Real Structure, Real Impact​

The Foundation isn’t a feel-good club. It’s a working system that keeps one of the world’s best test automation tools — and its ecosystem — alive and moving forward. It’s legal, structured, documented, and governed — without being stiff or bureaucratic.

Think of it like this:

A lighthouse isn’t glamorous. But without one, things crash.

Robot Framework keeps working because the Foundation keeps showing up.

Description: A white and black lighthouse under a blue night sky, symbolizing guidance and stability.

📷 Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash

If your organization uses Robot Framework, it’s time to support the people who make that possible. Become a member today.

Yours truly,

Miikka Solmela

Executive Director, Robot Framework Foundation