To be fully productive on your computer only 2 to 3 years ago you had to purchase software anywhere from $19.99 to $500+ depending on the program. Previously, I’ve covered how I converted all of my main programs to freeware and open source programs. Now, I’m here to praise the works of MakeUseOf and fellow free web and open source applications directories for pushing the word out. These directories are now your one stop shop to never having to purchase another program after you purchase your computer.
There have always been open source and free web applications, but within the past several years with the new Web 2.0 boom, the ability to create rich and powerful apps has increased. Thanks to AJAX, Ruby on Rails and even C++ coding, amongst the many others, developers are out there in hopes of developing free applications to make money without selling directly to their customer. There are 4 ways in which developers are making money from their applications these days.
The first way is to host advertising on the web app. This, because of the potential of over 1,000 daily users can turn a profit of $5k/month has been a popular route. However, the second way involves having a free version and charging a fee for the “professional” version. Thankfully, these days since there are so many free options out there, this is fading or the prices are around $19.99/year. We also have to thank the big powerhouse companies out there, like Google and Microsoft who have been on an acquisition spree. Many developers keep their products free in hopes of being acquired. The final method, which is more common for the open source applications, is donations. Many times, these people are creating superior products in their spare time to make the world a better place. All they ask is to support their efforts with a donation, which I fully support.
So Thank You to MakeUseOf! Thank You to the power house companies on an acquisition spree! Most importantly, Thank You to the developers of all these wonderful and free applications and software!
Filed Under: Annoucements
Tags: open source
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