The Strategic Implementation of Free Software in Business
17th September 2009 - Led by Shane Coughlan, Opendawn Consultancy
Free Software (sometimes called Open Source, FOSS or FLOSS) is an approach to software that emphasises the freedoms provided to end users. It is focused on using copyright to regulate the distribution of creative work, though it also has ramifications for the use of patents and trademarks. This workshop will explain the range of licences used in the Free Software paradigm. It will explore the legal questions involved in managing a project with multiple participants, the risks and benefits that exist in mixing code from third parties, how dual licensing is used as a way to hedge risk, and what best-practice exists for the development of Free Software code. In addition to this, the workshop will examine how Free Software licensing facilitates the creation of commercial products within the context of existing business models.
Workshop Leader
Shane Coughlan, Opendawn Consultancy
Shane Martin Coughlan is an expert in Free Software licensing, Open Standards and IT security. He has delivered speeches, training courses and consultancy across Europe. He founded and managed Free Software Foundation Europe's legal department as well as establishing the European Legal Network. Today this network connects over 190 legal experts in 27 countries and 4 continents, including delegates from many of the companies using Free Software. Shane works on a regular basis with representatives of community organisations and corporations in the mobile, embedded, desktop and server markets.
9.30 Registration
10.00 The Strategic Implementation of Free Software in Business
An overview of the Free Software approach
An examination of the fundamentals of Free Software
The licensing choices available
Explaining dual licensing
Separating trademarks and code
The reason for adoption and growth in the market
11.00 Coffee Break
11.15 Adoption and Project Management
Common issues in adoption
Strategy decisions and optimising returns
Liability and risk reduction
Building communities to support projects
12.15 Questions and Conclusions
13.00 Close of Workshop
