From Open Source to Long-Term Sustainability: Review of Business Models and Case Studies

“This paper presents several case studies to demonstrate how
open source software can achieve long-term sustainability by
adopting the relevant business models. The objectives of this paper
are to study the different models, processes, and legal/license
requirements that have been successful for such transformations. We
classify the business models used in the open source area into five
types: (a) Support Contracts; (b) Split Licensing; (c) Community;
(d) Valued-added closed source; (e) Macro R&D Infrastructure.
Each model’s strengths and weaknesses are discussed. The five
business models detailed in this paper are the most common and
arguably the most successful methods of generating revenues from
open source software. Those in the e-Science community are
encouraged to consider these methods for larger term
sustainability…”

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