Microsoft blows smoke at open source

As I mentioned in my previous blog, there are certain practical, legal and ethical considerations which must be taken into account when one is deciding whether to use open source (OS), as opposed to proprietary software.

On the practical side, one is likely to consider first what is cheaper and what is more trustworthy. Due to the very murky legal and ethical issues surrounding OS, many people feel safer going with the products of the software giants (Microsoft and gang).

How ethical is it to use OS?

OS software has come under fire for apparent copyright infringements. Microsoft recently took a stab at Linux by claiming that the OS hub had violated no less than 230 of its patents. This means possible negative consequences for businesses running OS software, as rumours spread that penalties would have to be paid if Microsoft pursued the case.

In light of the questionable legality of OS it may seem like the more sound option to run proprietary software, but one must remember that OS has huge benefits too: it empowers users by allowing access to the source code, which promotes innovation and freedom.

It has also been argued that OS forces big business to focus more on the customer’s needs. As OS programmers build upon, manipulate etc. software to suit their own needs, they are driving a new trend – the needs of the user shape the evolution of the software.

Brad Silverberg of Cnet perspectives says that

“Open source is forcing entrepreneurs and investors to think in new ways about a new set of problems. While it has taken away some of the low-hanging fruit, it's my belief that open source will help drive a focus on improved solutions for customers--particularly in underserved markets--and that unique intellectual property will play a critical role in fuelling this new engine for innovation”.

In fact, it has also been argued that the very companies which openly oppose OS, also benefit from it. “Piracy” of intellectual property often results in innovation and a more dynamic, vibrant industry.

In short, we need to strike a balance between open source and proprietary software. As TalkBack discusses in a recent article, intellecual property and open source can complement eachother.