Abstract:

This paper is an attempt to identify the factors that influence and limit the usage and intended usage of Free/Libre Open Source Software (FLOSS) and Open Source Software (OSS) within South African organisations. Organisations in the private and public sectors were examined.

In-depth interviews were conducted with senior staff in organisations that were considering or evaluating OSS as an alternative to proprietary software. Specific issues, constraints, criteria and factors in selecting and using OSS were identified through analysing the interviews. This paper draws extensively on the paper presented by Johnston et al [16]. 

Throughout the interviews and investigations, a current reluctance in South Africa to convert to OSS was identified. Perceptions of poor service quality such as weak OSS support structure and scarce OSS skills were identified. System or information quality issues were not raised by the interviewees.

This report undertakes an objective approach by considering both proprietary and OSS perspectives. The report highlights that lack of awareness remains a key obstacle to OSS adoption in the commercial environment in South Africa.