Open Options | Where can you use open source?

On the backend... Open source is very popular on the backend, especially Apache and Linux. Schools may be using open source here without knowing it.

On a current desktop... Many open source programs are available or specifically created for proprietary operating systems like Microsoft Windows and Apple Macintosh. These programs allow users to explore using open source with little risk. Programs like OpenOffice.org and the GIMP may offer schools significant advantages at a low threshold.

As a new desktop... Some open source operating systems are mature enough for schools. Some Linux interfaces deliberately mimic the look and feel of Microsoft Windows or Apple Macintosh. For basic tasks like word processing and Web browsing, open source operating systems are more than adequate.

Open Options is a product of the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory. These materials are in the public domain and may be reproduced without permission. The following acknowledgment is requested on materials which are reproduced: Developed by the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory, Portland, Oregon.

This Web site was developed and maintained by the Northwest Educational Technology Consortium. The federal funding for the regional technology consortia program ended on September 30, 2005, and no further updates are planned unless additional funding becomes available. However, much of the content is still useful and NWREL will continue to provide access to this site to support educators and to meet its own technical assistance needs.