Open Source Software on the rise says Entelect
Michael Stichling, Tech Lead of Entelect, explained that OSS is a software system, application or framework that is provided freely with the software's source code, and is usually packaged with an accompanying OSS licensing option. OSS can range from minor reusable utilities to fully fledged operating systems. "Access to OSS means that users can now source the code of a variety of software designs, packages and libraries," he said. "This software code can be used in its original form, reproduced or altered to suit any unique set of needs."
The success of OSS
According to Stichling, the success of OSS can be attributed to the improved solutions presented, learning opportunities being made available, as well as greater engagement being seen within development communities outside of an organisation. This is demonstrated by organisations in a variety of ways regardless of a specific organisation's processes or strategies.
"Some development strategies that organisations are adopting through OSS may include the creation of generic frameworks, making them available to the public to make use of and contribute to, or the adoption of already existing strong open-source projects with the purpose of using and adapting it internally to suit organisational projects and delivery of solutions," said Stichling.
"The most noticeable trend in OSS utilisation by businesses is the fact that OSS empowers developers with the basic tools needed for streamlining development tasks," continued Stichling. "For example, packages such as JQuery provide developers with the opportunity to abstract the cross-browser compatibility issues. This type of trend is often found in organisational systems because they have little impact on business functions, but do add to the overall value.
"The public now has access to software that is freely available - and this allows individuals to contribute their own unique knowledge and expertise to the code," said Stichling. "The tools required to make these edits and contributions are also maturing at a rapid pace, further encouraging the trend of organisations deciding to adopt OSS."
A widespread lack of understanding
However, there is still a widespread lack of understanding of what OSS is exactly and what its current role is within global software development. In addition, a high level of investment in existing software, along with the necessary staff retraining, may serve as a barrier to the adoption of OSS on a wider scale. Stichling noted that it is important for organisations to consider 'how' and 'why' before employing OSS. "Factors such as customisation - fitting the source code to meet the needs of the organisation, as well as quality, need to be discussed and carefully thought through," he explained.
An example of organisations and individuals alike benefitting from the introduction and utilisation of OSS locally is Entelect's R100K Challenge, which has seen scores of coders and gamers take part in this open-source project in order to gain entry. "The R100K Challenge has allowed participants to understand how the project works on a technical level, and affords them the ability to criticise, analyse and provide improvements.
"When considering the adoption of OSS into your organisation, a vision of what you want to achieve and how this will engage with the development community at large must be decided upon. This, along with the correct processes to assess and evaluate your OSS of choice will aid in making the right decision," concluded Stichling.
