What is open source?

Open source software is computer software that gives users the legal right to change or share the software’s source code. Source code is the version of a computer program that a person writes and that can be read and understood by a person; a computer can only use a program where the source code has been converted to binary code. The source code of most commercial software packages is secret (closed source). Proprietary (closed source) software companies generally license only binary code—useable by computers, useless for anyone trying to really understand how the program works.

Commercial software companies charge for licenses to use their products. Revenue is used for marketing, research & development, operating costs, and returns to investors. Part of the license cost is for bug fixes and other maintenance needed to sustain the quality of the software. Unfortunately for most users, most software development is geared toward driving upgrades or to satisfy influential users, because profit growth and return on investment eclipse other objectives. Code secrecy is necessary to protect the value of the computer software.

In contrast, open source software is usually free of charge and is supported by communities of developers who are committed to quality, rather than financial returns. Software usability, bug fixes and maintenance are high priority; software revenue is not a consideration. There are many reasons that people contribute to open source without pay. For some people, work on an open source project enhances job prospects. Companies pay employees to work on projects if the project is important to the technical infrastructure that the company needs for its products or services. The Apache Project is an example; it is one of the most successful open source projects.

The Apache Project was started in 1994 by a group of people who decided to work together to create web server software to replace a government-sponsored software application that was being discontinued. Web server software is a function that is critical to the Internet. It was in the group’s common interest to create and maintain a high quality software application. As can be seen at the Apache Foundation website, this project is thriving. It is an honor to become a Member, because membership is based on merit. Anyone can use the Apache software products free of charge. The Apache Web Server has the dominant share of the web server market. There are no marketing costs, no operating costs, no returns for investors.