by Niklas Maczyewski and Miguel Ebbers | 13.10.2024
The development of open source software has written an impressive success story over the last few decades. Originally created as a “community project” by programming enthusiasts, open source software has now proven its relevance in almost all areas of application – from operating systems such as Linux to internet browsers and complex applications for specific industries.
@ Copyright: ChatGPT
Differences and advantages and disadvantages between open source and proprietary software
The main difference between open source and proprietary software lies in the underlying source code. Open source can be viewed, adapted and extended by anyone. Proprietary software, on the other hand, is developed by companies that control the source code. One advantage of open source software is its flexibility and adaptability. Companies and developers can tailor the software to their own needs, making individual solutions possible. In addition, the strong community behind many open source projects often offers unsurpassed support and further development opportunities. On the other hand, however, there is the disadvantage of often limited user-friendliness, especially for users without in-depth IT knowledge. With proprietary software, on the other hand, users often benefit from clear operation (better UX) as well as established standards and defined further developments.The state of open source software in the planning and construction industry
Open source software has also found its way into the planning and construction industry in recent years. Among the most popular and widely used applications are QGIS, a powerful geographic information system, and FreeCAD, a versatile CAD software that is used especially for mechanical engineering, but increasingly also in the construction industry. In recent years, open source software has been increasingly used, particularly in the field of Building Information Modeling (BIM), to improve the exchange of data, perform calculations and automate processes. Several projects should be highlighted here:-
- The Blender add-on “Bonsai”, an open source software for BIM and 3D modeling, has gained considerable popularity in recent years and is increasingly used for the creation of 3D models in IFC format.
- The open source Python library “IfcOpenShell” offers the possibility to read, write and modify IFC files without the use of software.
- Speckle is an innovative platform that facilitates data exchange between different AEC-specific tools and enables smooth collaboration.
- CalcTree provides a way to transparently display engineering-specific calculations that can be flexibly customized and integrated into existing planning processes.
- That Open Company’s OpenEngine enables you to develop your own BIM software applications
- IfcLCA is an open source solution for life cycle analysis in the construction industry and enables the assessment of environmental impacts based on IFC files.
- MOD is a machine learning platform that connects developers, planners and manufacturers to promote process optimization through prefabrication.