Ron Bongo on Open Source concepts and how it can affect other aspects beyond software applications

Open source applications have been integrated into various aspects in business or personal lives: from open-source encyclopedias, operating systems, customer relationship management applications, financial applications and other software applications for graphics, multimedia and office suites. However, the concept of open source does not have to be limited to software alone - in can also be applied to other aspects in people’s lives.

The following are possibilities where people can go together and apply open source concepts. These possibilities could probably turn into reality in the 10 to 20 years.

* The School System -- children’s education and even higher learning need not be bounded by existing school systems controlled by an authoritative few, into a vibrant learning environment where real professionals get involve in the education process and where critical thinking is enhanced and encouraged.

* The Government System -- certain functions by the government can be co-opted by an open source community. Instead of a few people taking control of how these functions are implemented, a whole community from members of society can take part and be more cooperative -- a real government for the people and by the people.

* The Corporate System -- the same open source concept that place a dent on monopolies in software systems can be applied to other industries as well. One good example is energy deregulation, wherein people have the power to select their electrical power providers. Take this one step further and take the manufacturing, production or service aspects distributed through open source.

* The Entertainment System -- This is already happening in the Internet as more and more people collaborate on projects from music, books to movies and release them online.

* The Internet -- Open Source alternatives to existing products and services, including Google, Yahoo and Microsoft, can emerge and help the Internet evolve from what it is right now. Wikis and open-source emails already exist and it will be only a matter of time before other products and services turn open source as well.

To learn more about the benefits of open source and how it can help your business or profession come and visit this blog as brought to you by Ron Bongo.