splitlemez

Splitlemez is a term that has emerged in online communities, particularly within discussions related to software development and open-source projects. It refers to a situation where a project is forked, but instead of a clear divergence of purpose or philosophy, the split is perceived as unnecessary, contentious, or driven by minor disagreements. The term often carries a negative connotation, implying a fragmentation that could have been avoided.

The genesis of a splitlemez can vary. It might arise from a dispute over code style, a disagreement on feature prioritization, or personality clashes between core contributors. In some instances, a splitlemez can occur when a developer feels their contributions are not being recognized or incorporated into the main project. The resulting fork, or "splitlemez," then continues development independently, often attempting to attract former users or contributors from the original project.

Critics of splitlemez argue that such splits dilute community efforts and can confuse users who may not understand the differences between the original project and its offshoots. This fragmentation can lead to duplicated effort in bug fixing and feature development, potentially slowing down progress for all involved. However, proponents might argue that a splitlemez can sometimes be a necessary evil, allowing for experimentation or catering to specific community needs that the original project cannot or will not address. The term itself is informal and primarily used in online forums and social media, reflecting a sentiment rather than a formal project management concept.