From Open Source to long-term sustainability: Review of Business Models and Case studies

The five business models detailed in this paper are the most common and arguably the most successful methods of generating revenues from open source software and are encouraged to consider these methods for longer term sustainability.

Abstract

This paper presents several case studies to demonstrate how open source software can achieve long-term sustainability by adopting the relevant business models. The objectives of this paper are to study the different models, processes, and legal/licence requirements that have been successful for such transformations. We classify the business models used in the open source area into five types: (a) Support Contracts; (b) Split Licensing; (c) Community; (d) Valued-added closed source; (e) Macro R&D Infrastructure. Each model’s strengths and weaknesses are discussed. The five business models detailed in this paper are the most common and arguably the most successful methods of generating revenues from open source software. Those in the e-Science community are encouraged to consider these methods for longer term sustainability.