OSS Business Incubator

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RESOURCES

Open source software (OSS) is the backbone of much of the technology we use today. It’s a collaborative development model where code is freely available, allowing anyone to inspect, modify, and contribute. This fosters innovation, transparency, and rapid development.

Empower yourself with knowledge! We’ve curated a diverse range of resources to help you gain a deeper understanding of OSS. Click the drop-down menu under RESOURCES to explore each topic in detail:

1. Keynote: The Business of Open Source

    • Uncover the economics behind OSS: This keynote address delves into the financial aspects of open source projects. You’ll learn how companies generate revenue through open source solutions, explore different business models, and understand the value proposition of OSS for businesses.

2. COSSI: Commercial Open Source Software Index

    • Find commercial-friendly OSS solutions: The Commercial Open Source Software Index (COSSI) is a valuable resource for businesses and individuals seeking high-quality, commercially supported open source software. Here, you can explore a curated list of OSS projects with strong backing from companies, offering features like professional support and maintenance.

3. History of Open Source Software

    • Trace the origins and evolution of OSS: This resource takes you on a journey through the history of open source software. Learn about the key milestones, influential figures, and philosophical movements that shaped the open source landscape as we know it today.

4. Open Source Initiative (OSI)

    • The official governing body for OSS: The Open Source Initiative (OSI) is a non-profit organization that promotes and protects open source software. Their website is a treasure trove of information, including the official open source definition and various resources for developers, businesses, and legal professionals.

5. Open Source Software Licenses

    • Understand the legal landscape of OSS: Open source software is distributed under various licenses, each with its own terms and conditions. This resource provides an introduction to prevalent open source licenses, like GPL, MIT, and Apache, helping you understand their implications for using and contributing to open source projects.

6. Open Source Business Models

    • Explore ways to monetize OSS contributions: While open source software is often seen as “free,” there are various ways to build sustainable business models around it. This section delves into different strategies, like offering paid support, subscriptions for premium features, or professional services.

7. Open Source Project Governance

    • Learn how OSS projects are managed: Open source projects often have well-defined governance structures that ensure their smooth operation and collaboration. This resource explores different governance models, like meritocratic decision-making, contributor roles, and conflict resolution mechanisms.

8. Open Source in Government (code.gov)

    • Leveraging the power of OSS for public good: code.gov is a US government initiative that promotes the use of open source software in government agencies. This resource provides valuable insights into the benefits of open source for government projects, showcasing best practices and fostering collaboration across the public sector.

9. Travis Oliphant | Lex Fridman Podcast

    • Insights from an Open Source Pioneer: In this engaging podcast episode, Travis Oliphant, the creator of the renowned scientific computing library NumPy, discusses his journey in open source development. Gain valuable insights from his experiences, his perspective on the future of OSS, and the impact of open source on scientific research.