Open Source and Shareware Software

Wherever possible we use 'Open Source' software solutions in websites. Open Source software is free under the GNU public License (click to read - will open in a new window).

All the software we use is fully featured and professional with support and help available through the developers' websites.

What is Open Source?

Since the beginnings of computing there have been two quite distinct types of software and computing concepts. Commercial software and (until recently) the less publicised Open Source software.

The one you will be more familiar with is that of private companies developing software and selling it to you, Microsoft, Adobe, Macromedia - there are literally thousands out there producing great software that is often worth the asking price.

The second type of software is Open Source. In simple terms this software is created with the spirit of community and working together and the source code that makes it work is available for anyone to improve and contribute to as they wish. In many cases this ends up meaning that in addition to the basic software there are hundreds of 'plug ins' that extend the programs' capabilities.

For more information about Open Source Software visit the Open Source Initiative website.

Open Source and Free Software often used by Pearson Treehouse

OS Commerce - the online shop solution. www.oscommerce.com
Mambo - advanced content management and community site software www.mambo.com
YaBB - the bulletin board software. www.YaBB.com

Shareware

Shareware is another type of software that is often a far more reasonable financial alternative to the mainstream software titles available. Software distributed on an honor system.

Most shareware is free for an evaluation period but requires payment if you continue to use it beyond the evaluation period. After paying the registration fee, you may be eligible for technical assistance and updates. Shareware is protected by copyright laws.

There are many places to find shareware. A great place to start is our own software resource page where you will find some recommendations for shareware for business, open source software for business and further links to find programs for yourself.