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