Difference between revisions of "Free Software"
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[http://www.fsf.org Free Software] is a legal means to protect source code from being commercially exploited by '''proprietary''' business models. At the same time a healthy [[Business]] ecology is growing around Free Software offering [[Commercial Services]] of all kinds. | [http://www.fsf.org Free Software] is a legal means to protect source code from being commercially exploited by '''proprietary''' business models. At the same time a healthy [[Business]] ecology is growing around Free Software offering [[Commercial Services]] of all kinds. | ||
| − | + | [[File:Fsf logo.png|thumb|left|360px|Free Software Foundation]] | |
| − | Free Software is closely related (and | + | Free Software is closely related (and in many contexts perceived as identical) to [[Open Source]]. |
http://www.opensource.org/trademarks/opensource/web/opensource-110x95.png | http://www.opensource.org/trademarks/opensource/web/opensource-110x95.png | ||
Revision as of 05:12, 14 November 2010
The OSGeo is not a primary source of information regarding Free Software or Open Source. Please refer to the corresponding web sites for a thorough treatment. This page intends to give a quick insight to the topic and explain some basics. Feel free to edit this page if you feel that it is not enough or needs pruning.
Introduction
Free Software is a legal means to protect source code from being commercially exploited by proprietary business models. At the same time a healthy Business ecology is growing around Free Software offering Commercial Services of all kinds.
Free Software is closely related (and in many contexts perceived as identical) to Open Source.
http://www.opensource.org/trademarks/opensource/web/opensource-110x95.png
The Free Software definition allows for several freedoms that enable individuals to collaborate easily on a project. As the source code is protected from becoming proprietary it is not necessary to de-sign and then-sign complicated contracts that define who may use the software for which purpose.
Commercial Use of Free Software
Free Software is not anti-commercial! There are many companies and individuals who make a living by producing, maintaining and enhancing Free Software or by offering all kinds of Commercial Services around it. In the geospatial realm it has grown into a healthy Business ecology. Find a company near you that speaks your language using the Service Provider Directory. Add yourself if you provide services.