Open Source Software: A Solution to Software Piracy?

Open source software (OSS) is an upcoming area of software development. In contrast with its licensed, commercial counterpart, open source software is freely available to the public and does not require a license for use. The original author is given credit for developing the program but once the code is published, programmers anywhere in the world are free to further develop it, fix any bugs, and improve the content. This continual reworking of the software produces material that is far more stable and protected against virus attacks. Popular OSS programs include Linux and Apache.

Open sourcing is not subject to the problem of illegal software use that many copyrighted programs face. This illegal use, also called piracy, is estimated to result in a loss of about $11.75 billion for the global economy. The United States has the lowest software piracy rate of 24%, while other regions of the world such as Africa have estimated piracy rates of about 80%.

The cost of commercial software is too high for individual users and some businesses to pay in countries like Kenya. There, the use of open source material is helping businesses and institutions to save about half of the costs involved in the use of commercial software. In addition, because of the structure of OSS, the programs are more stable and dependable, helping the businesses expand and profit, unhindered by faulty computer operating systems and programs. OSS is seen as a potential solution to the problem of software piracy, especially in developing areas where the use of software without a license is an enormous problem resulting in millions of dollars of lost revenue.

If you are interested in free open source fundraising software, contact the developers at Mpower today at 800.562.5150.