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Abstract: Open-Source Software (OSS), known for its collaborative development and transparent access to source code, provides an effective way for businesses to achieve community-driven innovation, improved security, cost-efficiency, rapid prototyping, and customization. Despite of such benefits, the use of OSS has not yet reached the expected levels. This paper describes activities and outcomes of a recent R&D project that sought to strengthen companies' change- and innovation capabilities by offering them consultancy, guidance, and training for utilizing OSS in their business and digitalization development efforts. During the project, industry needs were gathered, and OSS solutions were proposed for companies' identified needs. Based on the experiences of collaborating with businesses, and on a survey exploring current understanding of OSS opportunities and competence needs, the project planned for an establishment of regional Open-Source Competence Centre.
Keywords: Open-Source Software; Digital sovereignty; Digital transformation; Competence centre; Collaboration; Innovation; Customization; Ecosystem
1 Introduction
In today's business world, integrating Open-Source Software (OSS) brings numerous opportunities for innovation and successful digital transformation. OSS, known for its collaborative development and transparent access to source code, provides an effective way for businesses to achieve community-driven innovation, improved security, cost-efficiency, rapid prototyping, and customization (Morgan and Finnegan, 2007). Consequently, OSS has become a key focus for diverse stakeholders in the innovation management community. Innovation leaders, R&D teams, technology managers, entrepreneurs, and government officials are recognizing OSS as a strategic asset that influences digital landscapes globally (West and Gallagher, 2006). The significance of OSS in innovation management extends also to corporate strategists and academic institutions, emphasizing its power to foster collaboration, drive innovation, and support sustainable digital transformation (Piva, Rentocchini and Rossi-lamastra, 2012).
Recognizing the transformative potential of OSS in fostering collaboration, enhancing digital sovereignty, and driving economic growth, the EU has articulated policies and initiatives aimed at encouraging widespread OSS adoption, emphasizing the importance of open standards, interoperability, and the development of a vibrant open-source ecosystem. By actively supporting and investing in OSS initiatives, the EU underscores its dedication to creating a dynamic and inclusive digital landscape, where businesses, governments, and citizens can benefit from the advantages of open-source solutions, contributing to a more resilient and competitive European digital economy (European Commission, 2020).
Despite the recognized benefits of OSS and the positive commitment from policymakers,...