The Incubator Club

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The Business Benefits of Open Source

The Internet depends exclusively on Open Standards which, in the main, have been implemented using Open Source. Using Open Source for the IT infrastructure, networking protocols, networking servers, DNS, DHCP, etc. should be the norm for all. Linux on the latest 64 bit commercial off the shelf hardware enables server consolidation and the replacement of proprietary servers and operating systems. The benefits are large savings that can be achieved.

The use of Open Source Software (OSS) is, for most organisations, the most effective way to reduce costs and improve system reliability and security. The cost savings are because:

• Linux rarely fails - mean time between failures is measured in months and often years;
• OSS is secure by design - it is being used by the USA Government for secure computing;
• Linux is virus resistant by design;
• OSS is designed to interwork - published interfaces and no hidden code;
• no forced change - OSS is written to ensure backwards compatibility;
• low cost or free licence fees;
• OSS is free from vendor lock in and vendor churn;
• Linux runs on the latest powerful, low cost, 64 bit commercial off the shelf processors;
• Linux runs well on low performance PCs that do not need fans for cooling.

These benefits result in a significantly reduced cost of IT. Using Linux on the desktop also gives a marked improvement in users' productivity. Users fear of computing goes because Linux works reliably and there are no threats from viruses.

Organisations need independent, high quality advice on how to make the transition to OSS. Relying on vendors to provide strategic advice is not the way forward. By ensuring freedom of choice netproject clients have saved millions from their IT budgets both by deploying Open Source technology and by being in a position to negotiate with their existing software vendors for massive reductions in licence costs.

netproject is a leading consultancy with an outstanding track record in computing and Open Source. netproject is working with organisations that are migrating their systems to OSS. Clients include UK Central and Local Government, the European Commission, financial institutions, multi-national companies, hospitals, high street retailers, etc. netproject runs regular briefings and workshops for all its clients where presentations are given by leading figures involved in the development of OSS and where netproject clients network and share experiences.

If you want to enjoy the benefits that Open Source Software gives - why not talk to us about how we could work together developing cost effective systems, that use the best of breed of both proprietary and Open Source software, to meet the needs of your organisation.