The rapid expansion of software development is partially fueled by a broad-based initiative to create an open forum for developing non-proprietary software. Specific examples include operating system (UNIX), server (Linux), database (MySQL), client/server-side interface (PHP, JavaScript, and XML), and cloud-computing software packages. Protected under an array of licenses, such as the GNU General Public License (GPL), Apache, MIT License, and Mozilla Public License, the open-source movement is a growing and complex system. Various groups have sought to restrict the development process by commercializing open source software. Within this context, this paper will answer the following question. How will the open source (OS) movement protect its intellectual property (IP) rights while remaining a viable business model? In order to answer this question, this paper will define intellectual property (IP) rights and the open source (OS) movement, discuss the role and legality of open source (OS) licensing, and provide a legal framework and business model for protecting future development.
IP Rights & the Open Source Movement
Posted by Andrew Miller on Jun 28, 2011 in Portfolio