Open Source Solutions


What is Open Source?


Open Source applications are available for free and usually users are allowed to view, alter and redistribute the source code.
 


So Open Source costs nothing?


Yes, the applications are free. However, solution providers usually charge for implementation, training, support, etc.
 


What are the advantages of Open Source?


Obviously, Open Source solutions are less expensive than proprietary solutions. But that is  not all.

The nature of the Open Source application development process - many developers, freely distributed source code - brings many advantages apart from price only:

  • Rapid development process

  • Bugs are detected quickly and patched almost instantly

  • Open Source applications can be modified and adapted to local needs

  • No single vendor or individual can impose restrictions or impose license fees

  • No hidden code can be placed

  • No per-copy licensing fees are charged

To summarize, Open Source applications are inexpensive, secure, stable and constantly improving.
 


Who uses Open Source?


Open Source software has been in use for a long time. Most web servers run on Apache, an Open Source application, many database applications use PostgreSQL or MySQL, there are Open Source programming languages and more and more users use Open Office for their daily routine work.

Open Source applications have matured and today there is an Open Source solution available for almost any situation.
 


Why is LaKe promoting Open Source?


We believe that Open Source is the future. Especially for developing countries and regions like West Africa, where resources are scarce and better spent on other necessities.

In addition, Open Source allows for the localization of software and ensures that dearly needed foreign exchange stays in the country instead of being used to pay for license fees and software.

 


Which Open Source solutions does LaKe support?


LaKe is constantly evaluating new solutions and applications developed by the Open Source community.

Currently we support the following solutions:

  • Open Office - a fully functional office application suite

  • Quasar - an accounting solution

  • Compiere - ERP and CRM solutions

  • OpenCRM - CRM solution

  • OpenExchange - Mail and collaboration solution

  • Apache - The most widely used web server

  • MySQL - Database server

  • PostgreSQL - Database Server

  • Squid - Web Proxy and Internet Access Server

  • OpenAdmin - School Administration Software