Open source refers to software codes that are open to the public to view, modify, and share. Open source projects or initiatives are based on the principles of open sharing and exchange of codes, collaborative coding, reusability of codes, and community-oriented software development. By changing the source codes of the open source software, programmers can add new features to the software or fix a software bug quickly.
There are many software tools used for conducting research. Some of these are available as FLOSS (Free, Libre, and Open Source Software). You do not need to pay for using them. Examples of open source software used in research are:
Workflow Organization: WORCS
References:
Opensource.com. What is open source?
Open Science Community Utrecht. Free, Libre, and Open Source Software (FLOSS) for Research.
1. Open Source accelerates Innovation
Because open source allows the public to view their codes, it can also help to accelerate innovations. Innovative ideas increase when there are more people participating. As more ideas are tested on the open source platforms, more innovative software applications can be developed for the public to share and use.
2. Open Source have direct access to customisable codes
As the source codes are visible and editable to the public, programmers can create many generic or customisable modules for their own projects. They can post their software modules in open source repositories for others to use. Other programmers can also adapt these modules further and shared them. This encourages diversity and reusability of software codes.
3. Open Source improves interoperability
Open source software are designed based on open standards. This greatly improves compatibility and interoperability with other standard-based software or Commercial-Of-The-Shelf (COTS) software.
4. Open Source creates superior code quality and security
As the source codes of open source software are accessible, more programmers know how the software works, their weaknesses, and strengths. There is also a larger pool of skilled programmers to fix the software bugs or security loopholes found.
5. Open Source helps to reduce costs
Some open source software are available as free. Since the source codes are available to the public, programmer can learn the software and help to fix any bugs quickly. They can also enhance and add new features to the software at no cost, for the benefits of the open source community. People from the open community can also help one another to provide application support.
Reference:
Object Computing, Inc.. Open Source Adoption: 5 Ways Your Organization Will Benefit
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