Open Invention Network names Shane Coughlan to drive global adoption of OIN 2.0, a next-generation patent shield designed to protect open source developers and enterprises from legal risk.
Open Invention Network (OIN) has appointed Shane Coughlan as Global Ambassador for OIN 2.0, tasking the veteran open source leader with accelerating awareness, adoption and engagement around its next-generation open source patent protection framework.
OIN 2.0 introduces a modernised, community-driven model for safeguarding open source software (OSS). The framework adopts a tiered participation structure that preserves free access for individual developers and small businesses, while enabling broader shared investment from larger stakeholders to ensure long-term sustainability and expanded patent coverage for emerging technologies.
The move strengthens a global patent safety net for OSS, reducing litigation risk and reinforcing patent non-aggression as open source expands deeper into cloud, networking and AI.
Coughlan brings more than two decades of experience in open source governance and IP strategy. He most recently served as General Manager of the OpenChain Project at The Linux Foundation, building scalable compliance and supply-chain frameworks. He previously led OIN’s licensing team during a major growth phase.
“Shane’s unparalleled experience at the intersection of open source governance, intellectual property strategy and community advocacy makes him the ideal ambassador for this transformational phase of OIN,” said Keith Bergelt, CEO of OIN. “As open source technologies continue to evolve and expand into new domains – cloud, networking, AI and beyond – Shane will help amplify OIN 2.0’s mission and foster global participation to sustain and protect open source.”
“In a world where open source innovation powers digital transformation across every industry, protecting that ecosystem from patent risk is fundamental,” said Coughlan. “OIN 2.0 represents a shared commitment to the future of open technology.”
Founded in 2005, OIN now counts over 4,000 members and more than three million patents under cross-licence.
