What Is Open Source?
Open source software is software whose code is published openly, free for anyone to use, inspect, improve and share, usually under a licence that sets out how it may be used.
It matters because a great deal of the modern web runs on open source. It lowers costs, avoids lock-in to a single vendor, and benefits from thousands of contributors finding and fixing issues.
An Everyday Analogy
Open source is like a community recipe book that anyone can read, cook from and improve. Because so many people use and refine the recipes, the best ones become very reliable.
- The code is public and free to use.
- Anyone can inspect it for security.
- A community maintains and improves it.
- Licences define how it may be used.
Why It Matters to You
Building on open source brings practical advantages for your budget and your independence.
- No licence fees for the core software.
- Freedom to move between suppliers — no lock-in.
- Transparency you can have independently reviewed.
- Mature, widely trusted tools behind your product.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is open source less secure because the code is public?
Often the opposite — many eyes review the code, so problems tend to be found and fixed quickly.
If you need a hand with any of this, your Progressive Robot delivery team is ready to help. Raise a ticket from the Support area of your client portal or speak to your account manager and we will guide you through the next steps.