that is the question…
Open Source software is fast becoming a main stream choice for business solutions. As the common myths associated with open source are debunked, confidence in the technology increases. Open Source simply means the code that underpins the software can be accessed by programmers and changed. In the context of your business this means that at ENAPPS we can change the code to modify a software package that is customised to the uniqueness of your business priorities, internal systems, your terminology and functionality. Simply put Open Source allows the software to fit your business and not your business fitting into the software. Here are some common misconceptions:
Myth 1 – Open Source software is free BUT you get what you pay for…
- While the actual program is ‘open’ to all, the specialised skills required to produce a software package customized for your business are highly valued. The end product speaks for itself. Creating that end product is highly complex work and comes at a cost. Where there is significant cost savings to ENAPPS customers is through the absence of licensing fees for companies that are growing and expanding. As you add to your business your costs do not multiply.
Myth 2 – Open Source is not secure.
- Organisations like U.S. Naval Air Systems Command use open source as part of their core operational systems and are happy to boast about it.
Myth 3 – Open Source is not supported and if something goes wrong you are on your own.
- On the ‘business applications’ level such features as ERP, BI, CRM systems, all of them are backed up by their developers. Open ERP Partners like ENAPPS stand behind their software and offer various subscription options available to guarantee bug fixes and help.
Myth 4 – Open Source is unstable and buggy.
- Open source projects are at maturity now and make use of the same coding/design methodologies as the commercial ones, meaning well planned and tested releases. Our process at ENAPPS is to work closely with you in the release process to ensure all your customised requests are functional. Importing data, report generation and other specialised features you request are tested together. Wait until you see how fast the software is.
Myth 5 – Company management are not familiar with Open Source and therefore not comfortable with Open Source solutions. They do not approve anything open source in our organisation.
- Open Source software is already all around you. You just know it as something else. Have you ever heard of Firefox? It is open source. It’s not voodoo, it’s just not owned by someone who wants to charge you licensing fees.