Why use Freeware, Open Source or Creative Commons

Freeware, shared, open source work and public domain work has become a worthwhile tool and a powerful movement. Championed by a great many, not the least of is Creative Commons, society is turning away from the corporate giants that have held us captive by their proprietary licences and restrictions.

How many times have I created a new form to make my job easier and shared it with my co-workers? Public domain and freeware at its simplest. What drawing or idea have you freely given away? It really feels good when people appreciate and use the things that we create.

Of course we live in a capitalistic society and our primary reason for being in business is to generate income; however in today's economic climate we need to take advantage of every opportunity given. Freeware, shared, open source work and public domain work provide that opportunity. From entrepreneurs just getting started to established companies looking for ways to smartly tighten their budget I suggest considering using these as tools to help your company.

Nine Reasons why Free is Best

1. Its Free.
2. The quality of many products are superb.
3. You are supporting independent research and thought.
4. You are providing exposure to a worthwhile project.
5. Did I mention it was FREE?
6. With the right products, no one will know you used free anything. Unless you tell them.
7. With each download, you tell the mega-giants that you will not be held hostage to their products and licenses.
8. You know you are not stealing anything
9. You can usually make changes without violating any laws or restrictions.

Yes, I believe creative commons, open source, copyright free and freeware to be godsends to the majority. I do caution you to read the licences and obey them. If they request a link back be a good responsible consumer and link back. If the license states "NO commercial use" or "no derivative work", then respect the artist or author. If you cannot or do not wish to abide by their requests then do not use their work.

Use freely, give freely and love freely.