An adage, “It takes money to make money,” but that doesn’t mean you have to spend a bundle on software to run your business successfully. The widespread assumption that the majority of companies and offices run with closed-source software is not accurate. According to a Future of Open Source Survey, 78% of businesspeople interviewed said that at least some of their operations were done with open-source software.
It is possible to use software with similar features and benefits through free downloads. Many closed source software types are compatible with open-source, and it is not only possible but also desirable to use open source for your business.
Although security and customer service are the main advantages closed source software has over open-source alternatives, the open-source offers cost savings and similar quality if you use the right software. Here are some open-source options for essential features.
Open Source Finance and Accounting
If you are focused on growth like most business owners, you need accounting and finance software that will scale your business. This software will track bank accounts, track transactions, and are compatible with various tax regimes. Some have features that can be integrated with inventory features and provide instant updates on sales and returns.
- GnuCash
- TurboCASH
- xTuple
Open Source CRM Software
Keeping tabs on your customers and building relationships rather than merely making individual sales is the philosophy behind CRM or customer relationship management made famous by software companies Salesforce and Oracle. The following provide alternatives to Salesforce and Oracle offerings. Features may include automated campaigns, customer support, sales generation, and fulfillment, facilitated collaboration with intermediaries, suppliers, and other parties.
- SugarCRM
- OpenCRM
- Fat-FreeIn addition, some CRM
Open Source ERP Software Systems
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software can be costly and complex. However, you can find open-source alternatives that can provide the same features at no or low cost. For example, the following may include accounting and finance, human resource, project management, CRM, supply chain management, manufacturing resource management.
- ADempiere
- OFBiz
- Odoo
Open Source eCommerce Tools
There are many open-source options for eCommerce tools with features that can include product presentation, shopping cart management, payment processing, multiple payment options, product export to eCommerce sites, handling vouchers.
- OpenCart
- PrestaShop
- Zen Cart
Benefits of Open Source Software for Small Businesses
There are many advantages to using Open Source software for your small business, and these include:
- Cost Savings
- Compatibility
- Scalability
- High Quality
People who use closed-source software tend to feel that they are paying for a higher quality product, but this isn’t necessarily so. Open-source software can provide comparable quality to closed-source counterparts at a fraction of the cost. Many open-source software varieties are compatible and integrate well with other platforms. As your business grows, this software can scale to meet a higher sales volume and business activity.
Although there are some advantages to closed-source software, it may be better to try these free and low-cost alternatives when you are building your business. As the company develops, you may ultimately decide to use Microsoft products or invest in other closed source solutions. However, you may choose to stay with your open source software and upgrade as your business grows.
However, there is no pressure to change over. According to the above survey, most of those questioned found Open-source security and features to be equal or superior to closed source. Even Microsoft has embraced open-source with its Azure cloud with Docker. Therefore, if it’s good for Microsoft, it may be good for your business too.
