Why we advocate for open source software

To put it simply, open source software gives you freedom.

Freedom from license fees, freedom from being locked into specific vendors, and most importantly, the freedom to innovate without constraints.

Illustration of a white lightning strike

Open source software explained

Source code is the blueprint that defines how a software application operates.

Open source software is code that enables you to freely copy it, modify it, and study it as much as you like.

Using open source software means you are not reliant on any single person or supplier to ensure the software meets your needs precisely.

Cost savings

Open source software can be a gateway to significant cost savings.

Transparency and empowerment

Open source puts you in control. You have access to the source code, enabling you to understand how the software functions and tailor it to your exact needs. If you or your developers modify the code, you can also submit it for peer review and inclusion in the main source code, benefitting everyone.

Security

Open source software undergoes rigorous peer review. Vulnerabilities are swiftly identified and addressed by a global network of developers.

Community support

Open source harnesses the expertise of global developers and users dedicated to ongoing improvement. This community provides timely support, shares knowledge, and collaborates on enhancements that propel open source software forward.

Customisability

Unlike most out-of-the-box or proprietary solutions, open source empowers you to modify and enhance features, ensuring your software aligns perfectly with your goals and objectives.

Avoid vendor lock-in

By adopting open source technologies, you can avoid being tied to a single vendor. Enjoy the freedom to choose and switch between providers based on your changing needs and preferences.

Licensing flexibility

Open source licenses(external link) grant you the freedom to use, modify, and distribute software as you see fit.

At Catalyst, we deeply value the principles of free and open standards in technology. Established in 1997, Catalyst now has the largest concentration of free and open source expertise in New Zealand. We can assist your organisation in maximising your investment in open source and managing long-term product interests.

Over the years, we have excelled in delivering, hosting, and maintaining large-scale systems worldwide using open source technology.

Our commitment to open technology is evident through our contributions to various projects like Moodle, Tōtara, Drupal, Perl, Kannel, Lucene, PostgreSQL, Koha, Debian, PHP, and Git. Additionally, we host the New Zealand Linux Kernel and Debian mirrors, and are affiliated with Debian and Ubuntu projects. We prioritise research, development, and innovation exclusively using open source technologies.

We actively support our local community by hosting user groups and organising the New Zealand Open Source Awards(external link) to recognise achievements in open source software.

  • Open source consulting: If you are considering free and open source technologies for your next project, talk to us first. We can advise on best-of-breed products, and integration with legacy, new or established systems. We’ll also support you with strategies for successfully implementing and maintaining these solutions for your organisation.

  • Industry partners: We partner with organisations globally to deliver expert open source services and solutions and are actively involved in key industry bodies.

  • Collaboration: We collaborate with many organisations to deliver quality open source solutions and services.

 

Want to discuss if open source could help enable your strategy, goals and objectives?

Talk to our open source experts.