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Free and Open Source SoftwareFree and Open
Source SoftwareLeaders: Chapter 8
Technology and the AdministratorChris Cerulli
Summer 2012
What is it???What is it???Free Software and Open Source Software = same phenomenon
“Free software is a matter of the users’ freedom to run, copy, distribute, study, change, and improve the software.” - Todd Hoffman
“free” does not refer to the cost - refers to the user’s freedom with the software
So... What is it???So... What is it???
Free and Open Sourced Software (FOSS) is any program that allows the user to edit, modify, or personalize the program through source code programming.
4 Freedoms of FOSS
4 Freedoms of FOSS
The freedom to run the program, for any purpose
The freedom to study how the program works, and change it to make it do what you wish
The freedom to redistribute copies so you can help your neighbor
The freedom to distribute copies of your modified versions to others
4 Freedoms: Rephrased
4 Freedoms: Rephrased
Use the software at as many sites or seats as the school would like at no licensing cost
Modify or customize the software or pay someone else to do so to suit the school’s needs
Give students and teachers copies of the software so they have full access both at home and in the future
Collaborate with other schools, businesses, and other entities to promote, distribute, and receive improvements to the software
What isn’t considered FOSS?
What isn’t considered FOSS?
Software written with open source, but not available to end user as open source
Just because its free to use, doesn’t mean its free for you to modify or edit
Free for some, not for all - its a privilege, don’t abuse it (free for a school, not for a business)
Open Standards - standard file types and formats allow data to be exchanged among applications (.doc vs .pages)
How is FOSS helping schools?
How is FOSS helping schools?Making more 1:1 Initiatives financially possible
Cost of computers is going down, software is getting more expensive
Using FOSS can keep software costs under $5 per seat
Discussion Question
Discussion Question
In your opinion, do you feel that freeware and shareware should be given more consideration as cost-efficient alternatives, since they are so similar in functionality, to perhaps the more recognizable yet more expensive norms?
1. Planning - Don’t rush - plan carefully - involve IT staff, vendors, teachers
2. Training - train leaders first, test to monitor necessary follow up training before full development
3. Hiring - update job descriptions to include experience with FOSS
4. Purchasing - make transformation intentions clear to current and prospective vendors
5. Implementation - start with low-risk projects, build confidence, take on larger projects
Next Steps...Next Steps...