Why should you use open-source for your next project?
For businesses looking to develop IT capabilities, a proprietary software solution might seem like the sensible option. After all, those out-of-the-box software programs are popular, user friendly and cost effective, right?
But will it have the flexibility you need in an increasingly complex and dynamic business environment? Will it be able to stay relevant as your user needs change? Will it be cost effective to modify? Will it be future proof?
Future-proof open source software
Future-proofing is not about creating software that never has to change. It’s about software that can evolve elegantly over time, adapting to new needs of users, without an expensive and time-consuming overhaul.
Future-proofing means creating solutions that won’t break - even as the digital ecosystems around them change and shift. It might seem like common sense, but in fact, many large, legacy organisations that rely on internally developed software tools are not applying future-proofing principles to their own software.
This means their software risks becoming increasingly overly complicated as new functionality is added to the code. Even a small change to an application can have unexpected effects on code that has hidden dependencies.
This can result in all sorts of glitches, especially in customer-facing and business applications, and can hinder the rollout of new functionality.
In sectors with limited budgets, such as local government, there are no easy solutions. Software engineers may not have the resources to create future-proof solutions, and could end up managing legacy software that has evolved in unpredictable ways. It’s a vicious cycle, as each change to the existing code only exacerbates the problem.
So what’s the solution?
To future-proof your project, you need to create code that evolves over time. In other words, open source. Together with cloud computing, using open source software makes development faster, more flexible, cost effective and stable. That's why here at District, we believe the open source approach provides the best solution for our clients and their software requirements.
Here's our top six reasons to consider an open source platform:
1. Cost efficient
One of the main advantages of choosing an open source platform is the cost. Unlike proprietary systems that often come with hefty licensing fees, open source solutions are generally free to use.
Open source can help you optimise your budget, without compromising on the quality of the software.
2. Customised and flexible
Open source platforms offer a level of customisation and flexibility that proprietary systems simply can't match. At District, our developers and UX experts will design and build software that is tailored to meet your organisation's unique requirements, aligning it seamlessly with your business processes and objectives.
3. Community-driven innovation
When you choose an open source platform, you're not just getting software; you're gaining access to a global community of developers and innovators. This community-driven model fosters continuous improvement, with contributors from around the world collaborating to enhance and refine the software. By aligning your business with an open source solution, you position yourself at the forefront of technological innovation.
4. Agility and rapid development
In the fast-paced world of business, agility is a key factor for success. Open source platforms typically have faster development cycles, meaning you can adapt to changing market demands more quickly. Updates and improvements are rolled out regularly, allowing your software to stay ahead of the curve and giving you a competitive edge in your industry.
5. Security and transparency
Open source platforms, with their transparent codebase and a community of vigilant developers, offer a level of security that's both robust and trustworthy. The transparency of open source code allows for thorough scrutiny, making it easier to identify and address vulnerabilities promptly, ensuring the safety of your valuable data.
6. No vendor lock-in
Choosing an open source platform liberates your business from the constraints of vendor lock-in. With proprietary systems, you may find yourself dependent on a single vendor for updates, support, and compatibility. Open source platforms give you the freedom to choose your path, reducing the risk associated with being tied to a particular vendor.
The success of your business relies on the strength of your software solutions. Choosing an open source platform is not just a choice for today; it's a strategic decision for the future. Embrace the benefits of cost efficiency, customisation, community-driven innovation, agility, security, and freedom from vendor lock-in.
Let us help you unleash your business's potential with the power of an open source solution. To find out more, or request a demo, contact us today.
