Open Source advantages and disadvantages

Open source is the term used for software distributed under a license that allows the user access to the source code. This type of license allows the study and modification of the software with total freedom. Furthermore, its redistribution is permitted as long as this possibility is in accordance with the license terms under which the software is acquired.

The open source concept centers on the assumption that by allowing code to be viewed and modified, users will develop superior quality software than proprietary software.

Advantages and disadvantages of Open source

Advantage

▸Total Cost of Ownership

There are no costs for licenses, or maintenance, or aid, in principle its cost would be reduced to installation, configuration and training.

▸Technologically updated

Free software business management tools make use of updated technologies: operating systems, databases, programming languages, and the solutions to be implemented in XYZ will not be obsolete. In addition, the community is in charge of evolving them day by day.

▸Easy customization

Although it is desirable that XYZ does not require customization of the software, it may at some point be necessary. With free software, it will usually be easier to carry out this customization layer and even at cheaper prices.

▸Very active communities

Communities are very cooperative where knowledge is shared. Through the internet, doubts can be resolved and even components can be compiled at no cost for the implemented solutions.

Disadvantages

▸Few preconfigured solutions exist

While in the private sector there is great competition for each business niche, it is possible that solutions for XYZ with a preconfiguration so adapted to the business will not be found.

▸The user must have advanced technological knowledge

In the private sphere, there is training and support that tends to make the user more permeable, while in the free sector, the user must be more independent. This point may involve considerations related to the training of current staff.

▸No guarantees

It is not responsible for a malfunction. If the parameterization and customization is done in XYZ, it will require development times for certain corrections.

Check also:
OSMC – free and open source media center
openSUSE what you should know about it

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