"Open Source" means the a software program's "source code", the basic instructions about how the program was put together, is accessible to the public. In order to be called 'open source', the distribution terms of the software must be unrestricted. For example, an open source software license could not restrict any party from selling or giving away the software , or may not require a royalty or other fee for such sale. An open source license also allows modifications allows them to be distributed under the same terms as the license of the original software.

The idea behind open source is simple. It means that any programmer can read, redistribute, and modify the source for a piece of software. As they do that it evolves, improves and adapts to new technology at an astonishing rate.

CyberSister's Comment

The open-source model has a lot to offer the business world. It's a fast way to build open standards as actual software, instead of paper documents. It allows large-scale cooperation as companies and individuals can collaborate on a product that they all find useful, but wouldn't have the resources to tackle alone. It's a way that the little guys can get together and have a good chance at beating a monopoly.

Which leads to my next point: why is this concept (that's been around for a long time, it's what the Internet infrastructure was built on) suddenly getting so much attention? LINUX. Linux is an up-and-coming competitor to Windows and has been called the "giant killer" for its potential to upset Microsoft.

Since small hand-held devices such as personal digital assistants, net appliances, etc.. are entering the market so quickly, an open-source Linux approach is the only one that makes sense for these kind of devices. The turn around time on open source bug fixes is just so much quicker than on proprietary software such as Windows. Interesting little competition heating up.

Open-source standards will completely reshape the software industry by 2004, according to a recent report by Forrester Research.

IBM and Dell will eventually triumph, while Oracle and Microsoft will struggle to cope with a changing marketplace.

Forrester forecasts that within four years, all traditional software vendors will need to change their proprietary business models to open-source ones, or drastically lower the price of enterprise application licenses.
Source: Wired World.

Yes, another trendy term - "iAppliances" or "Internet Appliances," is a term to describe Internet-enabled things around the home and office that will be able to share information, and be controlled, over the Internet.

For example, take a look at this standalone Internet radio from a company called Kerbango. It connects to local AM and FM radio stations, but it will also tune into the thousands of broadcasts (audio streams) on the Internet. And of course, because the Internet is a two-way medium, it lets you "talk back," giving comments or asking for additional information.

CyberSister's Comment:
With the advance of iAppliance and open source Linux (yes, it runs embedded Linux) for this sort of thing, I see possiblities for additional interactivity built in. Like the sound of the new band you just heard? Buy the t-shirt or download their concert schedule.

It doesn't do all that yet, but I think it's only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to dedicated, easy to use, and inexpensive (under $300) devices that do one Internet-related thing, and do it well.

Do you have a "iAppliance" idea or invention? Digital Ripple can help with confidential business analysis, funding seeking activity, or digital support.

If you have a palm pilot, or are looking at purchasing one, here's a useful site for you. It has technical reviews, consumer reports and comparisons, and software reviews. It's run by two brothers from British Columbia. Well, two sisters from B.C. (yes, the CyberSisters) give it a thumbs up recommendation!

Last issue we talked a lot about e-privacy, and how it is suddenly becoming a big issue. There's new legislation coming in Canada (as of Jan 1/2001) that will effect how the private sector deals with their customer's personal information. See our web site for more details. Anyhow, this site is a US based consumer watchdog, non-profit privacy rating organization. It contains lots of useful information about privacy related issues.

As the dot-com millionaires trade in their over-polluting SUVs, there is still some good news in the venture capital market. First of all, the CyberSisters believe that regardless of the market-correction, quality ideas, backed with a solid plan and a product, have always been key. We've often been hired to assess technology and technology related products, and have seen some good ideas and some bad ideas. Venture capitalists may be more skeptical now, but there is still money out there for a good idea backed by good business infrastructure.

Despite the recent down turn in the e-tailing stock area, billions are still being poured into the economy from venture capital companies. Perhaps one thing that is different is a shift of interest from e-tailing to other technologies (such as the ones we talk about) that will help move the new economy to another level.

We live in interesting, exciting times. The opportunities for entrepreneurs and business people with solid ideas and plans are huge. Our advice? Focus on wireless, portable, "nuts & bolts" technology that provides a unique application.

That's it for now! Have a great week!

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