The document discusses open source, shareware, and freeware software. It defines each term and explains their differences, particularly regarding access to source code and ability to modify. It also summarizes key benefits of open source like reliability, stability, and cost benefits. Common misconceptions about open source are addressed. The document provides an overview of areas to consider when adopting open source in schools, such as using it first for backend systems before moving to other areas like course management, productivity software, and operating systems.

1. Open Source, Shareware & Freeware "Understanding and making sense of it all." William Stites - wstites@mka.org - Twitter: @wstites

2. Understanding the differences... OPEN SOURCE Source code: Available to public Modifiable May be redistributed Community of developers Free Support can be community based or paid Open Source Initiative FREEWARE Free Developer chose free distribution Source Code not available Distribution from developers site only SHAREWARE Free for limited/trial period Developer owns rights Source Code not available No collaborative community Payment often required

3. Understanding the benefits... Reliability - Community of developers Stability - No "forced" upgrades Cost Initial Ongoing TCO Flexibility and Freedom Support and Accountability http://open-source.gbdirect.co.uk/migration/benefit.html#stability

4. Understanding the misconceptions... "But it's not X and our students need to know X in order to succeed in THE REAL WORLD "There is no support for open source software Not as secure as paid software Harder to learn & support Inferior to paid software Requires Linux, MySQL or PHP No or slower updates to software Free is NOT Open Source What happens when no longer free, updated, or supported by software company?

5. Understanding where to start - The backend...

6. Understanding where to start - The backend... Content Filtering* Firewall* Network Address Translation (NAT)* Intrusion Protection SPAM/Virus Filtering * Item currently used by our school.

7. Understanding where to start - The backend...

8. Understanding the next step - Course Management & Communications...

9. Understanding the next step - Course Management & Communications...

10. Understanding the big step - Software...

11. Understanding the big step - Software...

12. Understanding the big step - Software... Cross Platform Complete suite of productivity tool Skills vs Applications Ability to "Save as..." & open Office files

13. Understanding the big step - Software...

14. Understanding the big step - Software...

15. Understanding the big step - OS...

16. Understanding the big step - OS... Similar file structure Common/similar set of apps "Skin It!" - make it look like you want.

17. Articles, References & Resources "Open Source in Education" - Tech&Learning Presentation - http://www.slideshare.net/wstites/open-source-in-education-2877092 FOSSED Conference - http://www.fossed.com/ “ EDUPUNK: Open Source Education” - http://panelpicker.sxsw.com/ideas/view/1514 & http://jimgroom.net/presentations/ SchoolForge - http://www.schoolforge.net/ EduForge - https://eduforge.org/ NYCIST April 2009 Meeting Notes - http://nycist.wikispaces.com/April+2009+Meeting+Notes "When Free Isn’t Free: The realities of running open source in school " - http://www.techlearning.com/article/16504 "How the Open Source Movement Has Changed Education: 10 Success Stories" - http://oedb.org/library/features/how-the-open-source-movement-has-changed-education-10-success-stories Find Open Source Alternative Software - http://www.osalt.com/