« Previous | Contents | Next »
Listen
Introduction
What is open source software?
1. Open source software ( OSS) is computer software where the underlying source code is made available under a license. This can allow individuals and organisations who use the software to modify it, either to improve the software or adapt it to better meet their needs.
2. Open source does not necessarily mean free of charge. The term "free" commonly refers to the concept of freedom attached to open source - freedom to modify the source code. The Free Software Foundation ( FSF) publishes an earlier variation of the definition where it refers to "free software" rather than OSS. The FSF definition stresses that "free" software is a matter of liberty with "free" derived from "freedom" (libre), not from "no price" (gratis). The terms open source, free software and free open source software ( FOSS) are also often used as is free/libre/open source software ( FLOSS) 1.
3. There are different licensing models under which FLOSS is made available. Generally the licensing conditions are intended to facilitate the ongoing re-use and wide availability of the software. In contrast, vendors of closed, proprietary software provide only executable binary code, and not the human readable source from which that code is derived. Proprietary software vendors usually also place very specific limits on redistribution of the software.
Why is the public sector interested in free/libre/open source software?
4. Public service delivery is often supported by sophisticated and proprietary software applications. The perceived benefits of FLOSS make it an attractive option for information and communication technology ( ICT) solutions in the public sector as it strives to deliver an efficient and interoperable ICT infrastructure.
Who has produced this report and why?
5. This report has been produced by the Open Source Software Working Group 2, which was set up by the Scottish Executive to examine the role which FLOSS could play in the Scottish public sector. It explores the Scottish implications of the Office of Government Commerce ( OGC) report on Open Source Software Trials in Government and sets out a policy position for the Scottish public sector.
6. This policy will be followed by the Scottish Executive, its agencies and non-departmental public bodies ( NDPBs); the National Health Service in Scotland, local government and the wider public and voluntary sectors are encouraged to also adopt this policy.
« Previous | Contents | Next »