Open Source Vs Proprietary

Question 1

Open source software

Answer 1

When the source code for the software is made available. Enables people to tailor the software to their needs or develop the code for different or enhanced purposes

Question 2

Proprietary software

Answer 2

Software that is released as an executable program, but the source code is not made available. This prevents any alterations or developments being made to the software. The software development company allow others to use it through licensing

Question 3

Open source systems benefits

Answer 3

. Free
. Large developer base
. Global third party communities for training, support and plugins
. Multiple modules and wide input
. Quick to set up
. Often cleaner and better cope as can be seen by others
. Scalable
. Portable and adaptable

Question 4

Open source disadvantages

Answer 4

. Support not assured
. Lack or investment
. Security fixes not guaranteed
. May not be optimal for enterprise level websites

Question 5

Propriety benefits

Answer 5

. Better documentation
. Assured fixes to security issues
. Better support
. Built for enterprise level sites
. Training provided
. Established third party vendor relationships

Question 6

Proprietary disadvantages

Answer 6

. Expensive license fees
. Not bespoke solution
. More narrow input fro developers
. Lengthy set up process
. Updating processes may be complicated
. Hard to migrate
. Specific coding knowledge required
. Limited or no APIs

Question 7

What is a stake holder

Answer 7

Either an individual, group or organisation who is impacted by the outcome of a project. They have an interest in the success of the project