SoftwareTechnology

Beyond Code Visibility: Why True Open-Source Requires More Than Transparency

The distinction between open-source and source-available software is becoming increasingly blurred in today’s market. According to industry experts, true open-source requires specific freedoms beyond mere code visibility.

The Transparency Illusion in Modern Software

Industry analysts suggest that transparency alone doesn’t guarantee the freedoms associated with genuine open-source software. While many companies market their products as “open” or make source code visible, reports indicate this often creates confusion about what users can actually do with the software. The distinction between true open-source and merely source-available code has significant implications for developers, businesses, and the broader technology ecosystem.