FLOSS

FREE / LIBRE OPEN SOURCE SOFTWARE

With tough economic conditions, savings on any unnecessary costs should be welcomed with open arms!  Imagine not having to pay for software again, with the added bonus of never again getting a computer virus.

What is FLOSS?

Free software” is a matter of liberty, not price. To understand the concept, you should think of “free” as in “free speech,” not as in “free beer” Richard Stallman - Philosophical founder of FLOSS movement

• Freedom 1: Run the program for any purpose
• Freedom 2: Study how the program works and adapt it to your needs
• Freedom 3: Redistribute copies to help others
• Freedom 4: Improve the program and release your improvements to the public

Though the philosophy behind the FLOSS movement is free in terms of the four freedoms (see above) and the software is “free” to download, you may have to pay for any associated services i.e. if BFA helps you implement FLOSS into your organsiation, there will be an associated cost for this service provision.

What FLOSS applications can I download?

For every application i.e Office suites and operating systems i.e. Windows of, there is FLOSS!  Below are  two of the most popular FLOSS download sites.

http://www.sourceforge.com

http://www.osalt.com

if you can’t find what you are looking for there, then in any search engine, just type what you are looking for  i.e. “microfinance FLOSS” and you should be able to find what you want!

How can BFA help your FLOSS business?

Not all FLOSS businesses will have knowledge of all business management skills.  BFA offers Business Development Services  (with knowledge of FLOSS) to assist those people which are looking to start a FLOSS business, or an existing FLOSS business looking to grow / meet current challenges; the most common BDS assistance includes:

1.    Feasibility studies / business plans
2.    Marketing strategy
3.    Financial planning
4.    Policies and procedures / operations

An additional service which BFA offers is to act in a business development capccity for a FLOSS business.  What does this mean?  BFA by virtue of its core services (consultnayc, training and planning) will interact with a wide range of clients.  These clients would undoubtedly benefit (not least in lowering their costs) by using FLOSS, they will however need some technical support.  BFA can help you business grow by making use of their networks and contacts, both BFA and your businesses will grow!