03.11.08
Small Businesses, Beware Of Those Who Would Pick Your Software
Alfresco VP Matt Asay responds to an article in eCommerce Times.
He points out that SMBs should be using open source software, when it meets their needs, and that hosted software (SaaS) eliminates the need for the business’ owner and staffers to act as an IT department:
What could possibly be better for an SMB than not having to install software?
…
Fair enough. But what this doesn’t note (perhaps because the author doesn’t understand) is that just because you can access source code in open source doesn’t mean that you must. Most people don’t.
Even if an SMB elects not to modify source code, however, they still benefit by all those that do. Better code. More accountability from one’s vendor. Lower prices. These are just some of the benefits that are attendant on those that buy into open source, whether they’re a hacker or a surrogate of the hacker.
Which brings up the point: when you buy proprietary software, someone has to install it, configure it, customize it for your needs, and perform other administrative tasks from time to time. If the software has a failure, you are still on the phone, paying for support. You still have to search out online fora to find out how to fix your problem. So what is the advantage? It isn’t even always more polished than open source.
With FLOSS, someone has to install, configure, customize, and administer your software. Most of your support is free, from online fora, and many applications have a company where paid support can be obtained.
If you are approached by someone who wants to help you set up your business’ software, make sure that the person knows, uses, and supports FLOSS. Your setup doesn’t have to be only open software, but a significant part of what you use should be.
One other thing: Unlike what eCommerce Times wrote, No business should be installing or using Windows Vista. It is years away from being ready to use. Check out Mac OSX systems as well as Linux and BSD-based systems. If you are looking to buy computers, make sure that your vendors offer Mac and/or Linux systems.
From someone who supports Windows systems as his day job, trust me: you do not need the headache that is Windows Vista. If you must have Windows, buy only XP Professional.
Tags: SmallBusiness
