What is Open Source Software?

[1]
“Open source software” is computer software that is distributed under a licensing arrangement that allows the computer code to be shared, viewed, and modified by other users and organizations. The software developers who support the open source concept believe that by allowing anyone who's interested in modifying the source code, the application will be more useful and error-free over the long term. Therefore, they encourage modification or customization of the software.

There are several criteria that must be met in order for software to be considered open source software:

• The program is free.
• Source code is included.
• Anyone can modify the source code.
• Modified versions can be redistributed.
• The license cannot interfere with the operation of other software.

Disadvantages associated with open source software include:

• The development of new software may not happen.

• Any new developments may infringe upon patented software.

• The status of software development is difficult to track. [2]

OpenOffice.org is an example of open source software. OpenOffice.org is a suite for word processing, spreadsheet, and related programs that can be downloaded and used by anyone with a computer and internet access. More information on OpenOffice.org can be found at http://why.openoffice.org/.

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[1] Open_source_software_logo_in_business_home_software.jpg. Open Source Software. http://www.php4windows.com/. Web. 26 Oct 2010.
[2] Gonzalez-Barahona, Jesus M. Free Software / Open Source: Information Society Opportunities for Europe? Working group on Libre Software. Web. 25 Oct 2010.