The Document Foundation has released the latest version of the LibreOffice suite of applications (via 9to5Linux). Don’t be surprised by the high release number, as this latest version switches the project over to calendar-based numbering. The version boasts improvements to the experience (such as default AutoRecovery), user interface, security (e.g. improved password-based document encryption), and accessibility.
Open Source’s Many Contributions to the Farming Sector
An article by NewsBytes highlights the impact open source has on the farming sector. In addition to direct effects such as access to software to aid in farming operations and their efficiency (i.e. “agritech”), the piece also mentions adjacent benefits such as access to platforms to provide education and training.
Microsoft Removes WordPad from Windows… Boon for FOSS?
Microsoft is showing the venerable WordPad application, a “word processor light” that can handle Rich Text Format and Microsoft Word files, from the Windows OS (per TechRadar by way of MSN).
It has stopped any new development on the program, and it will soon be missing from new installs and unavaialble to install after installation. This presents an opportunity for open source applications, not only LibreOffice and its siblings, but also lighter, text-only alternatives such as AbiWord).
Useful Tips for LibreOffice
Android Police published a list of useful tips for LibreOffice, the de facto leader in open source productivity suites. While some, like using keyboard shortcuts, are a bit common sense, the recommendation to leverage styles (a highly underused feature) are definitely worth looking over.
Open Source Services Market to Reach $87.7 Billion by 2030
In a follow-up to Monday’s report by Markets and Markets, Inc., SNS Insider is projecting the market for open source services to reach $87.7 billion by 2030, growing at a similar 17% CAGR. The report highlights enterprise, and in particular those in the banking, financial institutions, and insurance (BFSI) segments as top growth drivers. Also of mention is Google’s Assured Open Source Software initiative, which provides certified versions of popular open source components.
Fleet Updates Open Source Device Management Solution
An article at Tech Day examines the new release from open source mobile device management vendor Fleet. In addition to enabling open APIs for all of its endpoints, the piece highlights some of the benefits of FOSS, especially preventing vendor lock-in for sensitive systems like MDM.
Forbes Lists Odoo as a Key ERP Vendor for 2024
The Forbes insight into enterprise resource planning (ERP) and supply chain management (SCM) for 2024 includes a FOSS entry among all the commercial heavy hitters. Odoo, an open source platform supporting dozens of apps targeting functions like manufacturing, HR, marketing, productivity, and collaboration, is listed among segment giants like Microsoft’s Dynamics 365 and NetSuite.
Tech Times Top 5 CMS Solutions Feature Open Source
Tech Times’ Top 5 list of CMS solutions for 2024 contain 60% open source. Usual suspects Drupal and Joomla! as well as ecommerce solution Magento feature prominently, while WordPress is conspicuous by its absence.
London Loves Business Looks at Magento 2
London Loves Business takes a look at long-time open source ecommerce leader Magento (now Adobe Commerce), highlighting the breadth of its features including inventory management, progressive web application (PWA) support, and integration with other members of Experience Cloud. While the commercial version has been re-branded, the open source version is still available.
Strengthening Development through Community
An article at The New Stack highlights how community supports developer growth, as well as some guidance on getting involved. The takeaway for businesses is that growing a community around open source projects yields direct benefits.
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