Open source software is a term that appears regularly in technology discussions, and one that is relevant to founders who want to understand their options beyond commercial software products. While many founders default to commercial SaaS tools, open source alternatives exist for many common business functions — and understanding what open source software is and what it involves helps founders assess whether it is a viable option for their needs.
Open source software is software whose source code is made publicly available, allowing anyone to view, modify, and distribute it. Many open source applications are free to use, though this does not mean they are cost-free — hosting, maintenance, customisation, and support typically require either internal technical resource or paid services. Popular open source software covers a wide range of business functions, from content management and analytics to customer relationship management and accounting.
Open source software suits businesses with technical resource available to manage installation, configuration, and maintenance, or those with specific customisation requirements that commercial tools cannot meet. For most small businesses without dedicated technical staff, commercial SaaS products typically offer a better combination of functionality, support, and total cost. Our guide to open source software for UK businesses covers the key considerations and when it makes sense to use.