Open Source Software: Source of Innovation?

Abstract

In this chapter, first, a definition of the term Open Source Software (OSS) and an introduction to the basic ideas behind it will be given. Next, several concepts from economic and management literature that may help explain the OSS phenomenon will be reviewed. Thereafter, I will take a look at the advantages and disadvantages that may result for a firm from different modes of OSS engagement. From this, a set of business models a firm thinking about releasing proprietary software as OSS may choose from will be derived. Finally, I will reflect on the implications corporate OSS engagement may have both for the corporation itself as well as its employees, which will provide the theoretical basis for the next part of this thesis.