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ABC: An Introduction to Open Source

Open source is here to stay: Here's how to start dealing with it.

PAGE 2

• What is open source?
• Why use open source?
• Why not to use open source
• How should I get started with open source?
• What about open source on the desktop?
• Can I sell open source-based products?
• Other open-source resources

How should I get started with open source?

Today, nearly every sort of business software product, from e-mail servers to ERP tools to voice over IP, are available as open source. But many companies begin using open source on the Web side of their business, where a number of industrial-strength, long-used applications exist. These tools are commonly referred to as the LAMP stack (standing for Linux, Apache, MySQL and PHP—or Perl or Python, depending on the situation.) Linux is a well-regarded, widely used Unix-like operating system. Apache is the most popular Web server in use today. MySQL is a database product that competes favorably with expensive commercial tools. And PHP, Perl and Python are programming or scripting languages commonly used for open-source Web development. Java-based open-source websites also often use the JBoss Java application server. Once you become familiar with using open-source tools and the differences—and similarities—between them and commercial products, you'll likely find other opportunities. You may also be surprised to find that your developers have been using open source under the radar for some time.

Server apps are fine, but what about open source on the desktop?

End users frequently find use for open-source desktop tools, such as Mozilla Firefox's Web browser. Sun's OpenOffice office productivity suite has even found favor with some corporations and government organizations as a replacement for Microsoft's Office. But while some organizations have taken the plunge and moved to open-source operating systems such as Linux on their desktops, Windows continues to dominate the space. End-user-friendly versions of Linux such as LinSpire have failed to break the Microsoft hold on the PC, often because of concerns over end-user training time and costs as well as the fact that most commercial software packages—upon which many companies depend—are developed for Windows first and Linux later, if at all.

Can I sell open source-based products?

Yes, of course, but as the Open Source Initiative points out: "What you can't do is stop someone else from selling your code as well." But many companies have found ways to make money with open-source code. Some wrap services around the code, providing enterprise-level support options that corporations are more than happy to buy. Others maintain two versions of their code: one that's open source, and another, more advanced version that includes proprietary add-ons for which customers must pay. This mixed model is becoming increasingly popular, with the likes of SourceFire, SugarCRM, Alfresco and others making use of the model.

Other open-source resources

Locations on the Web to find Open-Source Software

• FreshMeat: A huge database of downloadable software, much of it open source.
• SourceForge: Gigantic open-source development site with thousands of ongoing (and more than a few dead) open-source projects.

Open-Source Resources: Legal and Otherwise

• Open Source Initiative: Nonprofit corporation dedicated to open source and founded by many of the earliest players in the field.
• Open Source Technology Group: Possibly the world's top promoter of open-source technology. Owner of Slashdot news site, SourceForge and freshmeat.
• Open Source Risk Management: Offers compliance insurance and other services.
• Open Source Development Labs: Organization dedicated to promoting Linux use in enterprises.

Anything missing? Got a gripe about these pieces? Send a note to clindquist@cxo.com with your additions and omissions.

 

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