Open Source Software Research Paper by CalDR

Open source software has recently emerged as the front runner for many industries as the primary method of code production, as it is widely predicted to provide more options for its users in a quicker, quality improved and cost effective format than the more traditional proprietary software. Linux, the dominant player in the market, is a considerable threat to the Microsoft operating system, which has successfully established itself in the global market. Beyond its commercial potential, open source software possesses a potential goldmine in the government sector. However, questions regarding security and privacy continue to plague government officials in their pursuits of this option. This paper provides an overview of open source software as well as proprietary software and their primary components. It provides an evaluation of government options in relation to the products available on the market and discusses the social construction of open source software versus the technological determinism of proprietary software. The paper includes colored graphs.