Ryan McPherson3/16/09
Open SourceThe Open Source Initiative defines ten criteria
Free RedistributionSource CodeDerived WorksIntegrity of the Author’s Source CodeNo Discrimination Against Persons or GroupsNo Discrimination Against Fields of EndeavorDistribution of LicenseLicense Must Not be Specific to a ProductLicense Must Not Restrict Other SoftwareLicense Must Be Technology-Neutral
Notable Open Source SolutionsEvergreen
www.open-ils.orgILS
Linuxwww.linux.orgOperating System
Apachewww.apache.orgServer
Advantages of Open SourcePrice
Most Open Source programs can be acquired for free
CustomizationPrograms can be customized by the user Open Source can accommodate very specific or
niche requirements
Non-Exclusive RightsNo-one can restrict your use of the programNo license restrictions or terms of serviceSoftware not bound to a single provider
Disadvantages of Open SourceTechnical Support
No professional support staff
High Level of Expertise RequiredExtra training required to modify source code
Training Staff and UsersTime and money spent familiarizing them with
new programs
Enterprise SolutionsCommercially-Developed Software
Developed by large companies
Created by SpecialistsRequire specific training to modify
Closed ArchitectureThe user is not allowed to modify the source
codeOften bound by a number of restrictions on use
Notable Enterprise SolutionsEndeca
www.endeca.comILS
Microsoft Windowswww.microsoft.comOperating System
IBM Serverswww.ibm.comServer
Advantages of Enterprise SoftwareLarge Support Structure
Often 24/7 support lines
FamiliarityUsers recognize Enterprise softwareMicrosoft Office, etc.
Well-PolishedBig budgets and teams, lots of design work
Disadvantages of Enterprise SoftwareHigh Cost
Individual licenses
Terms of ServiceRestrictions placed on how software can be
usedBound to the vendor
Specific CompatibilitiesUsing one solution requires other specific
software or hardware
Things to Consider“Hidden Costs” of Open Source
Time familiarizing users with new programsTime modifying source codeTime fixing problems that arise
Not so Hidden Costs of Enterprise SolutionsIs it worth the expenditure?
When is it Good Enough?
ConclusionCost vs. Ease
Know What Options Are AvailableThere are many good Open Source solutions
out thereDecide which ones fit your situation