I'm actively encouraging people to adopt Open Source Software and produced the following information:
Open Source SoftwareThere is a growing trend to move away from commercial software to what is called “Open Source Software” (OSS). Using the power of the Internet, programmers from all over the world are able to collaborate on producing high-quality software which is in the public domain and therefore free to the end-user.
“Open source” indicates that the actual source computer program is not a commercial, copyrighted secret but freely available to anyone.
The biggest advantage to adopting OSS, of course, is the cost. Instead of buying software or buying a licence for several computers, OSS is simply downloaded from the Internet and installed on as many computers as necessary.
A second advantage is that the user is no longer tied to a particular manufacturer who is at liberty to change the software periodically, necessitating expensive upgrades. Instead, any documents produced are to an independent, open standard which is not a commercial secret.
Thirdly, open source promotes software reliability and quality by supporting independent peer review and rapid development of source code.
In the UK the Cabinet Office has published
the Government's policy on open source software. It includes the statement “UK Government will consider OSS solutions alongside proprietary ones in IT procurements. Contracts will be awarded on a value for money basis.“
The Office of Government Commerce has produced its
final report on open source software in Government. One of its conclusions is “Open Source software is a viable and credible alternative to proprietary software for infrastructure implementations, and for meeting the requirements of the majority of desktop users.” This report contains many case studies, some cost/savings comparisons and is thoroughly recommended as an authoritative, independent and balanced assessment of OSS.
Much of the Internet is powered by the Linux operating system, Apache server software and MySQL databases - all open source applications.
And if you want more convincing, try
OSS Watch for its further and higher education perspective,
the BBC and the experiences of
the Beaumont Hospital (look for the words "astonishing cost savings!).