[Freegis-list] Hidden costs of Open Source software

[Jerry Isdale]

Apparently the US Govt. Office of Mangement and Budget released a memo 
on July 1 warning CIOs about hidden costs when acquiring Open Source 
software (vs. commercial software which would never have hidden costs - 
smirk).   You can read the 1 pg memo at 
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/memoranda/fy04/m04-16.html

The GeoReport's GeoOpinion had a survey last week asking whether people 
were using open-source GIS software. (Georeport is a newsletter for 
http://www.geoplace.com/ which is tied to the magazine GeoWorld). 
Results of the pool show 38% said yes, and 62% no. This week they are 
asking: If you currently use open-source GIS software, have you found 
hidden costs to be a burden? If you don't use open-source GIS software, 
do potential hidden costs pose a barrier?
You can answer the survey at 
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/memoranda/fy04/m04-16.html

Free-Gis readers might also find the editorial "Open Source Software 
creates a Community of Solutions" (David McIllhagga) of interest. 
http://www.geoplace.com/gw/2004/0406/0406gisd.asp

Disclaimer: My only association with any of above is subscribing to 
Geoworld and GEOReport.
Opinions herein are not mine or my employers.