FOSS4G NA 2023 | Is it Wrong to Make Money with FOSS4G Technology - Michael Terner

Summary:

FOSS4G NA 2023 speaker, Michael Terner, addresses the question of making money with FOSS4G (Free and Open Source Software for Geospatial) technology. He outlines three viable business models: the Red Hat model (service and support fees), integration of FOSS4G into larger solutions, and open-sourcing technology with a premium model. Terner emphasizes the evolving hybrid landscape where open source and proprietary technologies coexist, highlighting the importance of supporting and giving back to the FOSS4G community.

Highlights:

💼 Business Models:

Red Hat Model: Service and support fees for free software.

Integrated Solutions: Incorporating FOSS4G into larger proprietary solutions.

Open Sourcing with Premium Model: Offering free base products and charging for advanced features.

🔄 Hybrid Landscape:

Future trend is a hybrid environment with a mix of open source and proprietary technologies.

Examples include Google's use of open source tools in unexpected places.

🌐 Community Support:

Importance of giving back to the FOSS4G community.

Contributions can include code, documentation, time, or financial support.

Hybrid implementations signify a coexistence of open source and commercial technologies.

👍 Conclusion:

Making money with FOSS4G is acceptable and sustainable.

Various business models coexist, and the hybrid approach is gaining prominence.

Encourages support for FOSS4G communities through contributions and adherence to licenses.