open source softwares

~OPEN SOURCE SOFTWARES~

Open source software (OSS) from the word itself is a kind of software that is free to use, can easily be downloaded from the internet and you can have it without paying a single peso from your pocket. Also the Encarta encyclopedia defined Open Source Software as a form of software in which the original source code is openly available for users to examine and modify, and to use to run or to create computer programs. A central feature of open source software is that users can review the software, add features to it or hire programmers to add features, or fix errors known as bugs, rather than wait for the original software publisher or creator to release a “patch” or bring out a new version. With open source software, programmers—many of them nonprofessionals—contribute to the computing community by making their improvements and bug fixes available to other users.

During my research, there was an article that was published in Manila Standard, one of our lawmakers Cong. Teddy Casiño passed a bill referring to the usage of OSS in government agencies, schools and universities. For me, it’s a good decision and would be a stepping stone for the State Colleges and Universities here in the Philippines because OSS provides advantages and benefits.

These are the following:

~ Since OSS is a FREE software (as defined above), we can download these softwares in the internet. In addition, we don’t have to worry about the licensing process.

~ Our government really doesn’t have the budget to have brand new computers or upgrade the computers. With OSS, we are not required to upgrade. If we are not yet familiar with these softwares, there are so many tutorials and modules available in the internet. It may not be user-friendly, but with enough patience and courage, we’ll be able to understand it.

~ We have the permission to use and distribute the software in any way.

USEP can adopt OSS by informing the current administration the practical benefits as well as the advantages of using OSS. Also conduct seminars, forums or discussions that would enable our teachers and my fellow students know more about open source softwares and that we can use it for education. In addition, we can save money by using OSS. And let the administration spend the money in more important things. Also, as an IT student, I’ll be able to explore my knowledge on animations (one of my goals is to know how to do some animation), there are OS softwares that cater my needs (example: BLENDER )

reference:http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/?page=interactive01_sept04_2006
http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/?page=interactive01_sept11_2006
http://www.netc.org/openoptions/home/quickstart.html
http://www.encarta_msn.com/encyclopedia_701610451/Open_Source_Software.html

pictures:

http://www.macnewsworld.com/story/46123.html

http://www.flickr.com/photos/25696093@N08/2410588719/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/25696093@N08/2411431028/