As opposed to proprietary software, the code of open-source software and operating systems is generally available and can be modified and enriched by practically any user. The open-source movement has been growing over time, the number of people using and contributing to the movement has increased to a significant level, and a expanding number of enterprises and administrations are implementing the software and operating system.
With the expansion of open source, the current reality is that users have a true choice between a variety of possible solutions to best accomplish their computing and networking goals. Along the way, the issue has arisen as to the place of open source for developing countries. In a recently released study titled "Open Source Software, Perspectives for Development" and commissioned by infoDev, this precise issue is explored.
Global interest in OSS
The study notes correctly that interest in open source is increasing globally. Indeed, technology providers are extending their support, deployments are expanding, investors are more interested, and thus new open source projects are commencing. While some competitors and lobbyists are marketing against open source, the study concludes that the "trends are positive for OSS." Still, because of concerns about software reliability, unfamiliar products, and unproven business propositions, according to the study, further education and awareness building are necessary for developing countries to appreciate the potential benefits of open-source code.
OSS provides choice
The study points out that while the initial interest in open source to developing countries may stem from its lower cost, they also should be aware of the longer term benefit of increased choice to consumers, as the emergence of open source creates more information technology options. The study notes that IT solutions can mix both proprietary and open-source components together, when appropriate. Furthermore, "new development models emphasize collaboration and community," which also results in greater market competition.
Government leadership
As software expands more and more into the lives of people in developing countries, there should be improved access to the market for all software providers, according to the study. Because the software market is "dominated by a few proprietary providers who spend over $6.5 billion annually to communicate their message," the study states that there should be initiatives to assist open source marketing opportunities.
Localization
The study points out that the very nature of open source lends itself to providing an information technology environment premised on local autonomy and ownership. As such, "software can be adapted to address localization, while introducing more flexibility and independence to the software development process."
End game
The study concludes that open-source software is a viable option that should be evaluated and deployed by developing countries using the same methodologies and disciplined care as any other information technology solution. With commercial interest in open source increasing, it should be judged on its own merits, not as part of a open- versus proprietary-software philosophical debate. This appears to be sound advice not just for developing countries, but for countries at any stage of development.
This article first appeared on Law.com.
Eric Sinrod is a partner in the San Francisco office of Duane Morris (www.duanemorris.com), where he focuses on litigation matters of various types, including information technology disputes. His Web site is www.sinrodlaw.com, and he can be reached at ejsinrod@duanemorris.com. To receive a weekly e-mail link to Mr. Sinrod's columns, please send an e-mail with the word Subscribe in the Subject line to ejsinrod@duanemorris.com.