OPEN SOURCE
Open source is the development and distribution of software that is free, flexible, further established and edited by interested online communites from around the world.
Flexibility is the key area of an open source system and with the growth of the web there has been continued interest in this domain, and apart from its adaptability continued interet is being fuelled by the high costs of other Content Management System types.
While some users may see Open Source software as a risk because of the lack of warranty, the software is well developed and maintained by communities online such as development groups.
back to top↑HOSTED
A hosted service for CMS is where individuals and organisations have acess to space on a server that is provided by a company. While using a hosted service costs money, the user has zero set up costs and does not have to pay for a server, bandwidth or software because it is all included in the hosting price.
Technical support is provided as part of the hosted service, which is a strong attribute. This generally consists of support sites, forum interaction, email platforms, real time system status and updates on web 2.0 tools such as blogs and twitter.
A hosted service differs from open source because the public does not have acces to the core codes of the software.
back to top↑COMMERCIAL
A commerical service differs from both a hosted and open source service. The main feature of a commerical service is that the business provides the code and the user handles their own server and set up procedures.
Due to the service costing the user, the commerical business has a vested interest in providing users with quality and innovative features as part of the software. This also includes keeping codes updated and current.
Most commercial CMS software is designed for buisness users and is designed with their needs in mind.
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