Ron Bongo here once more to give you more insights on business and how you could learn more about open source concepts.

Go back to basics with Ron Bongo as you learn more about the Open Source Paradigm.

With all the great developments going on with the open source movement (well, even Microsoft has softened its heart and jumped into the bandwagon), we must stop for a while and go back to basics to let others catch up, particularly in understanding one of the most important aspects of all -- the Open Source Paradigm.

Unlike a corporate in-house application development paradigm, or even an outsourced contract development paradigm, the Open Source paradigm involves the coalition of multiple entities: the original developer, other individuals, companies,academics, and other institutions -- all working together to develop an improved final product with features that would interest all.

The initial development is usually done by a single developer or his team and once a working product is completed, it would then be released for other developers and institutions to see. These other entities would then try the basic software and if they find it useful for their purposes and have the incentive to use the application, they could then extend or work with the software to add additional features or enhancements which they find suitable for the application.

The cost of development or adding a new feature is much smaller than shouldering the total developmental cost on your own. The only risk involved is when the new feature would not merge with the main body of the original source code, or when members in the community find the new feature inappropriate or not useful for end users. Should some members leave the community, others members and team can continue with the project from where others have left off.

This sharing of cost, risks and responsibilities in the Open Source paradigm creates and fosters a community of developers and even end-users working directly and making contributions in the development of a project. This communal collaborations result in high-quality products and applications that everyone would find useful and would benefit all.

Come back here to learn more about the benefits of open source and how it can help your business or profession as brought to you by Ron Bongo.