Enterprise adoption of open source is on the rise
It is no surprise that reducing operational IT expenditures, while simultaneously increasing the level of security and software capabilities, is a top priority for most enterprises.
Open source software, which uses an open development process, is proliferating across the globe given the advantages it offers over traditional forms of software. Open source solutions can be modified and adapted to fit the needs of various companies - something that's often not possible with proprietary software.
Here we'll take a look at the rise of open source within enterprises, and some of the benefits of open source.
Growth of enterprise open source
Enterprises are increasingly moving into the open source space, with more than 50 per cent of respondents to a Black Duck Software survey, Future of Open Source, released in April 2014, now contributing to open source software and using it within operations.
This study found that of eight out of 10 open source decisions were made based on quality, and technical capabilities ranked consistently as one of the top considerations.
"Open source has proven its quality and security, and reached the point of democratization and proliferation," said Lou Shipley, president and CEO of Black Duck.
"It's about participating and managing the logistical challenges to gain competitive advantage, attract top talent and influence project direction."
2014 Future of Open Source Survey Results from Black Duck Software
The key benefits for enterprises
Cost, freedom of choice and ease of use are often key considerations for a new piece of technology within an enterprise. Open source technologies aren't closed to continued development, enables them to be constantly adapted to the changing needs of the enterprise.
Camille Fournier, the chief technology officer at a startup called Rent the Runway, explained to Linux.com how open source offered improvements when it came to internal software development.
"Open source methods, when you apply them well, force you to document and formalize your process which can be a very good thing," she said.
Open source methods, when you apply them well, force you to document and formalize your process which can be a very good thing - Camille Fournier, CTO, Rent the Runway
This is why other companies across the globe are moving into open source, such as video provider Netflix, Facebook and Samsung. Given these benefits for enterprises there's no denying the potential of open source. Security threats, for example, are becoming more malicious and adaptable when it comes to breaching enterprise networks, and security solutions need to be capable of protecting sensitive systems and information.
Open source security is constantly refined and adapted by dedicated teams, and it's often more proactive than reactive. "Open source continues to pick up steam. It's now helping to solve complex technology challenges facing most businesses; from big data and cloud applications to digital experiences," said Dries Buytaert, chief technology officer of Acquia.
Enterprises need to consider these advantages of open source, and how it can improve operations with technology. These are compelling benefits that will likely continue to be top-of-mind for organizations in days to come.
Learn more about the benefits of enterprise-ready open source platform solutions through this sponsored IDC whitepaper.