The History of Open Source Software

Open source software, or OSS, allows the source code of the software to be made available to a variety of people under a copyright license. Users of the software then have the ability to utilize, alter, and then redistribute the software in its original or modified form.

Back in 1983, the free software movement was launched, opening the possibilities for more public involvement in the development of software. In 1998, however, the term “free” was replaced by “open source” software to appeal to larger corporations.

The goal of the open source software movement was to allow more people to understand, duplicate, modify, and access the software.

Some suggest that the term open source was initially coined in 1998 when Netscape announced the release of the source code for Navigator. Others argue that the invention of the internet in 1969 started the open source movement.

Open source software has become wildly popular with European countries, with France and Germany leading the movement. The United States and Canada follow, with the United Kingdom trailing behind.

The licenses needed for open source software set restrictions that a licensor is required to follow to use, modify, or redistribute the software. Open source software licenses give rights to the users of the software that would otherwise be prohibited by copyright.

To learn more about how open source CRM software may be right for you or your organization, contact MPower today by calling 972.220.0340