tele.com: Consider the Open Source

"As the early history of the Internet illustrates, a collaborative, sharing business model for technology innovation isn't new. But Linux, a computer operating system built from scratch, is a watershed in the evolution of open source systems. It poses a direct challenge to industry economics and to the core business models of top companies like Microsoft and Sun."

"The social design paradigm behind the creation of Linux is a compelling example of how the Internet enables a community-based business model in which thousands of contributors, each acting independently in their own self-interest, create a highly integrated 'good' that provides value to themselves and others."

"Gift economics clearly aren't for everyone. They tend not to work with production- and distribution-oriented generative communities, where goods are built and money changes hands. But in the digital economy this mode of production has a good chance of emerging as a potent force. Expect to see more gift economies, maybe even in your - or your customer's - industry."

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