Open Source Software
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Definition

Open source is a development method for software that harnesses the power of distributed peer review and transparency of process. The promise of open source is better quality, higher reliability, more flexibility, lower cost, and an end to predatory vendor lock-in. (http://www.opensource.org/)

It is a set of principles and practices on how to write software, the most important of which is that the source code is openly available.

Free speech, not free beer.

Open source software (OSS) projects are built and maintained by network of volunteer programmers. Prime examples of open source products are the Apache HTTP Server, the internet address system (Internet Protocol or IP), and the internet browser Fiirefox. Yet, one of the most successful programs is the Linux operating system, an open source Unix-like operating system.

Revenue model

Closed source software restricts users from accessing source code, thereby protecting the owners product and income stream – but at the same time, restricting what the user can do.
Thus, in closed-source software, there is an element of the design which means that the product is designed to prevent the customer from performing actions the company feels would result in a compromise of their source code.


Open-source, on the other hand, abandons all such attempts at forcing the customer to do things in a certain way. Instead, the revenue model is based solely on what customers can be persuaded to pay for of their own free will, i.e. a good, quality product.

The open software movement demands the following four freedoms:

  1. Freedom 0: The freedom to run the program for any purpose.
  2. Freedom 1: The freedom to study and modify the program.
  3. Freedom 2: The freedom to copy the program so you can help your neighbor.
  4. Freedom 3: The freedom to improve the program, and release your improvements to the public, so that the whole community benefits.

Freedom 3 includes the freedom for language communities to localize software into their own languages, and to adapt it to local cultural and legal requirements.
However, one thing all are agreed on is that Open Source software is never designed to prevent users from doing things they might legitimately want to do.

Pros and cons of open source software

Pros

  • Inexpensive or free
  • Constantly improving
  • Can have input from all over the globe – makes for a program that can better meet all user needs
  • Usually written to standard, so changing between different programs is easy. (flexible)
  • Customizable
  • Scaleable
  • Security – open source developers are quick to find, publicize and fix security holes. Closed-source software vendors do not like to admit security issues, and can be very slow in implementing fixes.

Cons

  • Lack of documentation
  • Lack of support
  • No “fall guy” if things go wrong
  • Security – open source could allow bad guys to see holes in code quicker and easier than with closed source software.
  • Peace of mind – Project may cease to exist at any time.

Things to consider before using open source software

Just because it’s on the net and the Web site looks good doesn’t mean the program is clean or even functions properly. Many bad guys will write Trojans into a useful program, then give that program away for free / open source.

Do your research before using open source software, especially if the application will be used in a business.

Linux, Mac and Windows

While open source software has been common-place and widely available in the Unix and Mac circles for years, Windows users have not had the luxury until recently.
A relatively new initiative called OSSWin (open source software for Windows) is beginning to grow.

Examples of good, open source software for Windows

Where to get open source software

Open source Web apps

Many people and businesses have a need to run Web applications, but don’t necessarily have the pocketbook to accomplish doing business online. That’s where open source comes in. There are millions of open source Web applications available. From bulletin boards/forums to e-Commerce shopping carts to calendars to photo galleries to content management systems.

The developers of some of these applications will allow you to have the program for free, but will charge you for tech support or installation. Others are completely free and widely supported, such as phpBB, a forum/bulletin board used on over six million sites worldwide.

Many familiar Web sites are considered open source: MySpace, Facebook, Google and Yahoo! all make their API (application programming interface) available to anyone who wishes to develop code to utilize the services these sites offer. What that means is one can download the Google API and begin writing modules (code) to integrate Google search services into other sites.

How to become involved

You don’t have to be a programmer or developer to be part of the open source movement. Volunteers are needed to keep Web sites updated, write technical documentation, FAQ’s and user manuals, respond to help desk requests and mirror programs on their sites.

If you have a favorite open source program, e-mail the developer(s) and volunteer. I'm sure they will appreciate your support.

Open source developers also like to eat - so throw a five or ten their way if you are able.

 
Ann Carrier  |  E-mail