To many people, the best thing about open source software is the low, low price of free. And while the fact that many open source applications are free to download is a nice bonus, that's all it really is. We use open source software because it is bigger and better than proprietary software: more flexibility, better support, better security, better performance.

The key principles of open-source software are as follows:

Source code must be made freely available by the developers.
The software can be freely distributed (in the sense of without cost and without restriction) by any party.
Any user may submit modifications and additions to the software.
New code is integrated as frequently as possible to improve security and performance.
The software is modular in its general structure, to increase flexibility in design.

With source code open for all to use, any obstacles preventing the sharing of data between programs are rapidly sidestepped. If the file formats are different, make the relevant modifications, and presto. Also, with each user controlling the source code to the software they use, there is no danger of some unforeseen event at the provider's end rendering the application unusable and the data inaccessible. Given the sudden collapse of even large companies recently, this is a valuable safeguard.

Our clients have more freedom because we use open source software. We can tailor solutions to their specific needs with the knowledge that should the situation change, we can simply and securely modify the application in order to optimise its effectiveness. Open source is ultimately about enfranchising the user.