Open Source Software

Open Source Software (OSS) has gained much momentum and popularity in recent years.  In contrast to proprietary software where their source code is kept confidential, OSS’ source code is usually available under a copyright licence that grants users with different rights on the software.  Some common rights include freedom to study, change, and improve the software.  However, different OSS are distributed under different licences, which may have different combinations and variations on the above rights.

For more information about the OSS and also commonly used or widely known open source licences, please click into OGCIO webpage.