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A basic definition of open source software is software that has its source code publicly available and at no charge. Additionally, most open source licenses let anyone use the offering, modify it, and redistribute the source code for free. Some common aspects of open source software include centralized organization, fee-based support, and the user being the developer. There are several things to consider when evaluating open source software as opposed to commercial software and deciding which to purchase. In the area of support, some closed source software includes support with the software license, but in some cases there is a charge for support. A number of open source offerings have one or more firms that provide support for a fee. For many users, the best bet is to seek out useful user-to-user forums, newsgroups, and mailing lists and post problems there. In the area of training, a number of open source products have companion offerings that enhance installation or ease of use. For example, the MySQL database provides only a command line user interface and installation tools. However, independent application developers have created secondary clickable installer programs and low-cost or free software products that offer a GUI for MySQL. Therefore, if the product seems difficult to use, looking for secondary offerings may solve the problem at little or no cost.
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Information Sources, Inc.
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