Open Source vs. Closed Source: What's the Difference?

When you’re purchasing CRM software (or any software), you may not realize it but a question you should ask is whether or not you will have access to the source code. Is that software open source, closed source, or somewhere in between? In this article, we’ll outline the differences, and where 1CRM falls on the spectrum!

• 1CRM provides users with the source code to read and edit. This is huge for those who want to make custom changes to the code. It’s in your hands whether you would like us to do the work for you, one of our partners, your staff, or the computer-whiz down the street. Many CRM competitors do not provide the source code, and therefore can charge you amounts like USD$275/hour for custom work, and you have no option but to accept if you need the work done.
• If installed on your own server on-premise, or on our Cloud in a dedicated virtual machine, you can edit the software and run changed versions.
• You can assess the code for security vulnerabilities if desired.
• If users feel they are experiencing a bug, or they imagine a system improvement, they can take things into their own hands, review the code and even suggest a fix or enhancement.

• Software where the code is available for viewing, but cannot be modified and redistributed can be referred to as having open source code, source-available, or as shared source. 1CRM is closer to the pure Open Source Initiative definition of open source software than this, as users do also have the right to modify the software or have someone do it for them. They of course do not have the right to redistribute it, as it is commercially licensed.

Want to sell 1CRM software? Fantastic! Connect with us and become a partner today! Unlike free Open Source software, 1CRM is proprietary, and requires licenses for use – that you can sell! It cannot be modified and then sold independently.