Be Lawful!

Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) is a Way to Protect Intellectual Property Rights

UCAN has funded and supported the creation of an Internet web portal to encourage and facilitate the use of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) http://www.opensoftware.org.ua. FOSS products include the full range of programs that organizations need to function effectively – PC operating systems, desktop publishing, word processing, spreadsheet management, anti-virus, website development, financial administration, etc.

The purpose of the web portal is to inform the general public that a free and legal alternative to expensive software products is available to them. This is especially timely in the wake of Ukraine’s designation as a “free trade” country and its anticipated accession to the World Trade Organization, which will bring increased attention to copyright law and intellectual property rights from the Ukrainian government and from the international community.

Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) is a legal alternative to more expensive licensed products. It is free of charge, except for the expenses, which are related to receiving and supporting use, e.g., expenses for program loading from the Internet, obtaining CDs, expert consultations. FOSS products can be copied and distributed by anyone without violating Ukrainian or international copyright law. Some users feel that FOSS provides advantages in comparison with licensed products. The software code is open, and so everybody who has programming skills can modify it (for example: make software translation to other languages or increase software functional potential).

The portal currently offers information on the acquisition and use of 83 FOSS products, covering 22 distinct software categories. It provides articles with tips for using the products to meet specific needs – from advice on how to get a website up and running to a step-by-step strategy for outfitting an entire organization with a working computer network. Users of the portal are encouraged to ask questions and get technical support through an open forum where they can post messages and start discussions about areas that interest them or problems they need help with.

                                                                              www.opensoftware.org.ua