The term Open Source refers to software with open source code, as well as a new model of developing, supporting and selling software, with the following features:

  • The source code of the software is made available together with the software;
  • The license permits free use, modification and distribution. The user of Open Source software may is free to modify it, copy it and distribute it as he/she wishes;
  • Absence of vendor lock-in. The access to the code and the its freedom allows any company with sufficiente knowledge and skill to support and/or develop the software;
  • The software is developed according to a Pull system, unlinke the Push system of proprietary software. The needs of the final users drive the development of the software.