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Seems like everyone these days is trying to save a buck. Whether it’s two-for-one Tuesday at Taco Bell or buying computer software during the Holidays, we all need a little help during these trying economic times. Many companies and individuals have been turning to open source software (OSS) as a means of saving money for years. Essentially, open source software is software that costs less than proprietary software. Studies suggest that the adoption and implementation of open source software saves consumers about $60 billion dollars per year. While cost savings seems like one of the biggest advantages, some consumers didn’t think that was altogether the case.
Open Source Advantages:
- Some users felt the software gave them a heightened sense of security.
- Other users felt the software was easy to customize and therefore fit within the constraints of their specific needs.
While cost wasn’t the biggest advantage in internet users polled, getting rid of pesky software vendors was high on their list of advantages. Of those that were polled on an internet questionnaire, 44 percent suggested getting rid of the software vendor was the biggest advantage they saw from open source software. Another internet study suggests that the simplicity of licensing the software was their biggest advantage. One of the gigantic advantages of open source software is that you can install it on multiple machines within your business.
Like every idea and every product, open source software has its detractors. Some suggest there is not enough tech support for open source software. Others suggest the products are not of the same quality as proprietary software and are not as reliable. Still others listed the higher installation costs as one of their largest detractions. HostGator Coupons
Wherever you stand on open source software, the debate is likely to rage on for years to come with billions of dollars at stake driving the discussion.
