There is no shortage of Free Open Source Software available. Some of it is the best available in it's class, some is as good as expensive proprietary software and some of it is just bad.

I have been using Free Open Source Software since the mid 1990s, and have experience with all three categories, and with proprietary alternatives. This section has some of the best applications I have used. I'll be adding more of my favorites and new software.

Server based

The software here is, generally, server based. It can be accessed from any client with permission, and clients do not need as much software installed and upgraded, or need as many resources.

Web based

It is also, generally, web based software, so the client — whether it is a laptop, a phone, a desktop computer or some other device — only needs a web browser installed. Also, with the appropriate security in place, the applications and latest data is available anywhere you have an Internet connection.

Free Open Source

There is no need to buy and manage licenses or upgrades. If necessary, it can be customized to meet your specific needs. Often it is designed to be modular, so customizations can be keep out of the core software, making it easier to maintain and upgrade.

Open Formats

Using published, open formats stops you getting locked into buying software just to access your own data. If you don't like one application, your data can be migrated to another application. You can also exchange data with customers and suppliers more easily.