Free software, Open Source and Closed Source

FOSS (Free/Open Source Software) is a software development philosophy that allows users to examine, modify, edit, and redistribute the source code of any software project under free software licenses. As a result, open source refers to the code of specific software. Closed Source Software (also known as Proprietary Software) is a type of software that does not allow for the modification of the source code. To put it another way, the publisher does not make the source code available to the users. Users cannot edit the source code unless they have special permission from the publisher. Free and open source software along with closed sources come with corresponding advantages that are unique to each other. This blog will focus on discussing the issues, difficulties and consequences a user might encounter when using the software.

The following are issues regarding the usage of Free and Open Source Software:

1. Qualification and Selection of Free and Open Source Software. The first in the list is the issues regarding the qualification and selection of free and open source software. The ratio of the proliferation of too many versions of the same program rises with time due to the openness of the source code. This complicates FOSS selection and qualifying.

2. Procurement. The lack of a legal entity or a single company to function as the other party in the procurement process adds to the difficulties of performing FOSS procurement. Unlike proprietary software, the vendor is responsible for all legal aspects such as warranty and support. Support is supplied by the FOSS Community in the case of FOSS. Due to stringent legal compliance, the influence is felt most strongly in government sectors.

3. Human Factors. Change management is to blame for this challenge. Users, particularly in the government and academic sectors, are resistant. This was linked to the widespread usage of proprietary software in schools, causing users to become used to non-FOSS software. In the workplace, this is clear. For example, most office workers choose Microsoft Office Tools such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint because they are comfortable with them, despite the fact that Open Office provides the same functionality and graphical interfaces as MS Office.

4. Legal/License Issues. The procurement process is hampered by the need to document FOSS purchases. The absence of legal entities makes procurement problematic, similar to the challenges caused by FOSS Procurement. In addition, many firms lack experience with FOSS licensing.

5. Software Development Service and Support. In this challenge, the cost of training is a significant element. FOSS is self-taught by software engineers using internet video courses, blogs, and communities. Proprietary equivalents, on the other hand, give post-sale training and customer assistance 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The following are issues regarding the usage of Closed Source Software:

1. Cost. Users must be willing to pay a price in order to get the benefits of a closed source software solution. There is a licensing fee as well as a support fee in addition to the initial cost. And, depending on the intricacy, this cost may rise.

2.Adaptation. A user of closed source software cannot change the source code unless the developer gives permission. Even though this approach improves security, it also has a disadvantage. Businesses are unable to put innovative ideas into action. Businesses can only introduce modifications by contacting the developer. Businesses cannot anticipate the desired results if the provider declines the request.

3. Upselling. It is required of a user to supply personal information before purchasing closed source software. Companies may contact you through phone or email to upsell their products based on your information. While this might be advantageous for improving the product, it can also be inconvenient in the midst of a hectic work schedule.

4. Reliability. Even if the developer is in charge of addressing mistakes in closed source software, customers cannot anticipate rapid solutions. After contacting the supplier, the user must wait for the staff to correct the problem. There are also times when the team fails to correct the problem. Businesses in this position will begin to lose a significant amount of money.

5. Licensing. The number of users who can utilize closed source software is limited. If the licensing only permits for ten users, the software will only be available to them. Additional license will be required if more persons need to be linked. This is a concern because each license requires a monthly or annual subscription price.

6. Product Option. Even if there are many closed source software providers to choose from, only a few of them generate codes that are suited for your needs. As a result, firms must be willing to accept items that fall short of expectations.

Reflection:

The key concerns and obstacles that businesses must consider when writing IT strategies and policies include qualification and selection of FOSS, procurement of FOSS, human factors, legal issues, usability, and software development and support. These difficulties act as roadblocks in the organizations' efforts to adapt technology to their needs. Additionally, in terms of user security, closed source is a much reliable to use. Each sort of platform has its own philosophy, approach, benefits, and drawbacks. There is no one-size-fits-all solution because it is dependent on the needs of the company. We hope that this article will assist you in making the best decision for your company.