Both Info-Tech and educational technology advocacy groups, such as the Northwest Educational Technology Consortium (NETC), recommend open source software as a viable, cost-reducing option for K-12, university, and library settings. However, not every application is a suitable candidate, or may not provide expected savings. Rather than basing an open source decision on cost, evaluate whether the organization's specific technology needs can be met using open source.

In Education, the Open Source Community Is Thriving

Powerful open source software hinges on a community that spearheads development of high-quality alternatives to commercial packages. A strong community bands together to provide support, enhancements, and updates needed for applications to improve.