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Jun 2009
The Myth of Open Source License Proliferation

This 451 CAOS report examines the claim - perpetuated by both proprietary vendors competing against open source and some within the larger open source community seeking limitations - that open source licenses are proliferating out of control. Instead, our research suggests that the abundance and variety of open source licenses has helped open source software and the vendors that choose it by providing flexibility, effective development and distribution, and the ability to mix open source with proprietary code and licensing.

Furthermore, it appears there are, in fact, fewer than a dozen open source licenses accounting for nearly all enterprise use of open source. This report identifies those licenses and explores why they have emerged among dozens of others as the most popular choices. By analyzing the open source license choices among enterprises and talking with vendors and users regarding their decisions, we also uncover the characteristics that drive preferences for specific licenses.

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About The 451 Group

The 451 Group is an independent technology industry analyst company focused on the business of enterprise IT innovation. The company’s analysts provide critical and timely insight into the market and competitive dynamics of innovation in emerging technology segments. Clients of the company – at vendor, investor, service- provider and end-user organizations – rely on 451 insight to support both strategic and tactical decision-making for competitive advantage.

The 451 Group is headquartered in New York, with offices in key locations, including San Francisco, London and Boston. For additional information on the company or to apply for trial access to its services, go to: www.the451group.com