When developers create, release, and update software, their goal is to contribute to its ongoing progress. For this reason, they use a software program or platform with source code that is easily available and can be modified or improved by anyone also known as open source.
What is open source?
Open source refers to software designed to be easily accessible and improved by anyone through its source code. Most users can’t see the source code, but developers have access to the open source. This access allows them to fix and enhance the application based on their needs. For example, by manipulating the code and changing its functionality, developers can repair the program or application that is not working properly. Furthermore, developers can start their projects and release them as open source.
Examples of some of the open source software (OSS) are GNU/Linux, Mozilla Firefox, VLC media player, SugarCRM, etc.
When a company releases a new product to the public, it must decide whether to create open or closed source. Choosing a closed source means that its source code can be modified only by the organization that developed the product or application. On the other hand, as we mentioned earlier, open source is publicly available for anyone who sees it and can be easily modified. This is its biggest advantage, although some features may cost extra.
Also, there are other benefits of choosing open source.
What are the advantages of open source?
- Opportunity to learn and progress – Open source projects are preferred by many developers. This type of software provides a valuable learning environment and covers a wide range of technologies, programming languages, and tools. Which makes development much easier for developers.
- Cost benefits – Because there is no payment required when using open source software, it allows businesses to assign their software budget elsewhere.
- Community Engagement – Because this type of software is publicly available, it allows developers to create projects and interact with other developers outside of their organizations.
Despite the benefits of using open source software, there are also some risks.
What are the disadvantages of open source?
- Security – Due to the availability of open source software, security can be put at risk by people with malicious intentions.
- Difficult to use – Because designing an app takes a lot of time, effort, and proper skills. Some of the open source applications have smaller teams of designers responsible for the user experience and larger teams of developers. This makes developers the ones who design the app, making it еventually “developer-friendly” instead of user-friendly. Which makes the application difficult to use by the users.
- Lack of support – A product developed through open source software can be modified by many people. When a problem with the functioning of the application or product occurs, the users will not know who to turn to.
Conclusion
Open source refers to making the source code of software programs and platforms accessible to all. The final goal is to improve the programs for the benefit of the users.
