Software

Software

1. Open Source Software

   • Generally allows users access to the code to edit/change themselves
   • Free to download
   • May be able to edit and distribute the updated changes you make to the software
   • Benefits
     • Edit and customise software freely
     • Generally, a very strong social support forum is needed if you need help
     • Usually free and good for companies with limited budgets
     • Allows collaboration with other people who may want the same modifications
     • Better versions of the software may appear faster than proprietary software
   • Drawbacks
     • Relies on support networks of other users
     • Expert Knowledge is needed to edit the code
     • Debugging can be hard can be hard as no 'one person' is necessarily responsible for the software
     • May not evolve in a strict timeframe and may not have regular updates
     • May need to buy in external support
     • Could be more open to exploitation through users adding in malicious code

2. Proprietary Software

   • Licensed Software
   • Generally costs money to buy
   • Has the confidence of the program being produced by a 'professional' company
   • Generally has many features built into one program
     • Has official updates, support, upgrades and fixes released
   • Benefits
     • Generally provides free customer support
     • Meets professional standards
     • Always someone to go back to if you have problems
     • Generally more tailored to market needs
     • Bugs, Security Fixes etc., are more likely to be fixed faster
     • May be broader and contain more features
   • Drawbacks
     • Cost may be significant
     • Limited to expansion by only what is available
     • Reliant on one company - what if it goes bust?
     • May not fully meet the needs of the customer