Fair source model introduction: Hey there! Let me tell you about something cool that just happened in the world of software.
You know how some computer programs are free for anyone to use and change, while others are locked up tight by companies? Well, a big company called Sentry (worth a whopping $3 billion!) is trying to find a middle ground. They’re calling it “fair source.”
Sentry makes software that helps other companies keep their apps running smoothly. Their head of open source, Chad Whitacre, explained to TechCrunch why they’re doing this. Basically, they want to make money (who doesn’t, right?) but also share their work with others.
Here’s the deal: With fair source, anyone can see the code and use it, but there are some rules. After a certain amount of time (like two years), the software becomes completely open and free for everyone. It’s like letting people borrow your toys, but you still get to keep them in your toy box for a while first.
Sentry used to share all their code freely, but they changed their minds in 2019 because they were worried about others copying their hard work. Last year, they realized they needed a new way to describe what they were doing, and that’s how “fair source” was born.
Other companies are starting to use this fair source idea too. It’s pretty new, so people are still figuring out exactly what it means and how it should work. Chad says it might take a long time to get everything sorted out, just like it took years for people to agree on what “open source” really means.
The Fair Source Model – Will It Work?
What do you think about the Fair Source Model? Does it sound fair to you? It’s an interesting way to try and make everyone happy – the companies that want to make money and the people who want to use and improve the software. Only time will tell if it catches on!
New Startup Introduces Fair Source Model to Combine Open Source and Proprietary Licensing. This innovative approach aims to strike a balance between the benefits of open source and the need for sustainable business models. By leveraging the fair source model, the startup hopes to foster collaboration while still protecting intellectual property rights.
