The project 'Open Source in the Enterprise' (OSE) was proposed in October 2002 at the Cannes Conference of The Open Group.

The Open Group is about openness, in dialog between stakeholders, in choice, in the wider community and in technical processes. This is how we will achieve our vision of 'Boundaryless Information Flow'. Open Source is an important aspect in this and there are already several relevant contributions by The Open Group in this area. The Open Group is exploring further opportunities associated with Open Source. This project is one of several taking place within The Open Group.

Especially in larger entities, a decision to use Open Source is a complex decision and our members are looking for guidance both on the technical issues but also, perhaps more importantly, on the business issues.

The initial meeting on Open Source in the Enterprise was held during February 2003 in San Francisco. Good presentations and proposed work items came forward which required creation of this project Web page.

Getting involved

Click on the Mailing Lists link to join the mailing list. This will give you a login name which will allow you to login to the site and then join any of the e-mail discussion groups

About this site

This site facilitates sharing of information. We encourage you to use it as a resource, as a means to contribute your input for reviewing and commenting on inputs from others - and, most important, propose (and offer to lead) the initiative most valuable to you

If you have any queries about this page, or would like to become an active contributor to this Open Source activity, please contact Graham Bird.

Current contributions of The Open Group in the area of Open Source

Open Source is an important aspect to The Open Group's vision. Here is a list of relevant current contributions by The Open Group in this area:

• Creation of Open Source code with its Pegasus open-source implementation of the DMTF CIM and WBEM standards for enterprise systems management
• Assistance in moving code from proprietary licenses closer to Open Source, such as OpenMotif and DCE.
• Application of its considerable expertise in certification to LSB's Linux certification program. The Open Group contributed its know-how about operation of such a program (and operates the program for the Free Standards Group), and in addition many of the test suites.
• Andrew Josey of The Open Group also serves as Chair of the successful Linux/POSIX convergence program in standardization.
• Development of an open Architecture Framework, TOGAF, which is available freely on terms similar to Open Source conditions.
• Many 'supplier' members of The Open Group have been delivering products with Open Source components
• Both 'customer' and 'supplier' members have been deploying Open Source platforms successfully over a significant period.