SME Opensource Solutions: flexibly customizable and license-free

Many large companies rely on open-source software because it enables a high degree of technological independence, scalability, and innovation. Open source code allows software to be customized to meet specific requirements and further developed independently of individual vendors. At the same time, companies benefit from globally active developer communities that continuously drive new features and security updates. That is why open-source technologies now form the foundation of many core IT systems—from cloud infrastructures and databases to container platforms. Major cloud providers, industrial companies, and internet platforms not only use open source as users but also often actively participate in the further development of this software.

In many companies, open-source software is used not as a replacement for, but as a supplement to, the existing Microsoft environment.

Typical combinations include, for example:

• Document management with Nextcloud in addition to Microsoft file sharing
• Automating Processes with n8n
• AI-powered knowledge systems or search functions
• Integration of existing systems via APIs

This allows companies to add new features without having to completely replace their existing infrastructure.

The workload is often distributed differently, but it isn't necessarily greater.

With traditional licensed software, part of the work falls to the manufacturer, whereas with open-source software, the company or service provider has more control.

Typical differences:

In practice, it is primarily the system architecture and the degree of integration that matter, not the type of license.

No. Security does not depend on whether software is open source or proprietary.

Many of the world's most important IT systems are based on open source, for example:

• Linux
• Kubernetes
• PostgreSQL

The advantage of open source is that the source code can be publicly reviewed.

However, security always comes from:

• Clean configuration
• Updates
• Monitoring
• Professional operation

This prejudice often stems from the past.

Modern open-source software often has excellent user interfaces these days.

Examples:

• Nextcloud
• OnlyOffice
• odoo
• ERPNext

Many of these applications are actively being developed and are based on modern web standards.

Yes. Many open-source systems today are designed specifically for cloud environments.

Typical models are:

• Self-hosted cloud systems
• Managed hosting provided by a service provider
• Hybrid architectures

An open-source stack can therefore be run

• in its own data center
• on a cloud server
• or in mixed environments​

and be monitored.

Companies often choose open-source software because it offers greater independence, control, and flexibility than traditional licensed software. The source code is openly available, allowing systems to be customized as needed or managed by various service providers. This reduces dependence on individual vendors or licensing models. Additionally, companies can build a stable IT architecture for the long term and better adapt it to their own processes. Other advantages often include lower licensing costs and the ability to leverage modern technologies that are continuously refined by international developer communities. As a result, open source is now used not only by startups but also by large enterprises, cloud providers, and public organizations worldwide.

No. Support is also available for open-source software.

The difference lies in the support model.

With traditional licensed software, support is usually provided directly by the provider.

With open-source software, support can be provided in various ways:

• by specialized service providers
• by the managed hosting provider
• by internal IT teams
• by the developer community

In fact, many companies appreciate the greater flexibility this offers.

You can switch support partners without having to switch software.

This reduces dependence on individual manufacturers.

Typical models are:

Many companies combine several of these models.

Conclusion

Open-source software does not mean “no support,” but rather the freedom to choose your support model.

Companies can decide whether they

• operate it yourself,
• hire a service provider,
• or use managed hosting.