So when you try to download and install iTunes, you don’t need to know the source code of iTunes. You use the final product directly, and you may not know who made the software, what code. You install it on your system with just a few simple clicks, and you think everything is fine.

But on the other hand, when the open-source software is exposed, the source code is also exposed. Many times open-source software developers create an executable file of the software with the source code and then open it, while many times open the source code, which requires a user to create the final product.

In a word, “open source software,” where the source code of the software is open to all (public) and the source code of other software is closed (private).

So open-source software is not free. You may see a lot of software for free, but the number is minimal. Not only open-source but also private software can be free. If you want, I will write a detailed article on how open-source software developers make money.

Why Use Open-Source Software?

Suppose an engineer built a house and advertised it for sale. You saw that ad and bought the house. After purchasing the house, you started using it properly. You are using all the rooms, using all the switches, using all the bathrooms, and so on.

Suppose a house suddenly has a power line problem or a water pipe bursts and starts leaking water. But what do you do? You can’t fix it yourself because you don’t know about the electrical line in your house, or you don’t know which direction the water pipe has been taken.

Similarly, when you install software on your system, you do not know its source code. And you can access those codes if you want.

For example, your home plumbing and electricity lines help run your home’s water and electricity (even if you don’t know which way to go). Similarly, any software does its job without telling you how it works. But now think, what if the software has a serious security error or bug?

You will have to wait for an electrician or plumber to fix the water tap or electricity in the house. Similarly, if there is a problem with any software, you have to wait until the developer releases the new version.

You may ask why many people fix their home problems. You are right, but it will only be possible when your home engineer gives you a blueprint for your home.

However, you can easily see which wire or pipe in your house has gone in which direction using blueprints. And that’s exactly what open-source software does; they give you the software’s source code, so you can understand how the software works and do whatever you want with any problem.

Open Source Facility

In this case, you might say, “Hey bro, what do I do with the source code? I can’t do programming.” OK, even if you can’t do one-line programming, you still need to support open source. Why? Let me show you some reasons below.

Open-Source, Helps Build Community

When a source code is made public, any developer or programmer can gain knowledge about that software. This acquired knowledge can enhance their programming skills.

As is the case in libraries, there are different books written on the same subject so that the issue can be explored in a better way. By working with open-source, it is possible to innovate something completely with the help of everyone through your talent, hard work, and creativity.

For example, open source technology is responsible for the massive popular cryptocurrency markets where blockchain technology is worked on by developers all around the world to create new solutions and improve on the ones already available.

It Quickly Extends a Helping Hand

Errors in any open-source software can be solved much faster. If a bug is found in proprietary software or closed software, users have to wait until the software company fixes it and releases a new version, and it often takes a long time.

But in the case of open-source software, you can’t fix it, but there are thousands of developers who have a hard time avoiding any bugs and fixing them quickly.

Open-source Software Creates Competition and Diversity

Open-source software is unique for its diversity. You know how many flavors Linux has. Again, you must know how many browsers Mozilla Firefox has. Even the Google Chrome browser is made from an open-source project called Chromium. When everyone can take a project into their own hands, and use it in their ideas, you will surely find a lot of diversity together.

There are many other reasons why you should support open-source software. But I’m going to end today’s discussion here, hope you have a pretty good idea about open-source software, and maybe you’re ready to support it too. If you have any questions, be sure to let me know in the comments below.

The post What Is Open-Source Software? Does Open-Source Mean Free? appeared first on WP Pluginsify.

Some startups are doing a pretty great job of getting noticed online through creative marketing campaigns and clever giveaways. Let’s take a look at the some of the most innovative Ecommerce startups to see what tips you could take away for your own store.

#1 – Harry’s

Why: Harry’s Ecommerce store is making quite a statement with its professional and sleek website. Its innovative branding appeals to our basic needs, offering products most men can’t live without. Harry’s keeps customers hooked for life with its long-term email campaign that sends reminders to people when they are about to run out of razor blades. Harry’s is a clever and fast-thinking innovative Ecommerce brand that makes the most of its marketing opportunities.

Take-away: Harry’s plays to its customers’ human side which gets them noticed. Think of ways to create this personal connection with your customers, either through your branding, marketing or social media campaigns, to spark engagement and create a lifelong popular brand. Keep your brand at the forefront of people’s minds at all times.

#2 – Hard Graft

Why: Hard Graft focuses on a very niche product base for its customers, giving it a competitive edge. The store primarily focuses on premium material goods to sell to its customers. Hard Graft has a beautifully designed website that is simple, yet easy to navigate. This adds a touch of exclusivity to its luxury goods.

Takeaways: The reason Hard Graft works so well is its niche product selection. It specializes in selling simple, yet premium products like leather bags, satchels, elegant trainers, and accessories. Work this into your brand by honing down the products you sell on your online store.

#3 – Man Crates

Why: Talking about niches, this company is doing it right. With their humorous take on the perfect gifts for men all around the world, they have built up a good name for themselves. Honing in on a specific niche like this will yield better results as you won’t be competing in a saturated market of lookalike brands. They have even made some great video content that reflects their brand and voice:

Takeaways: What Man Crates does well is honed down its product niche even further than Hard Graft. By selling endearing products that appeal to its audience, Man Crates brings an air of delight to its customers. Incorporate niche ideas and products into your brand for amazing results.

#4 – Westwing

Why: Perhaps the fastest growing company in this list, Westwing is a home and decor Ecommerce store operating in 14 different markets. Since the company began in 2011, it has grown exponentially through large investments and launching in different markets. Without a doubt, its rapid growth is impressive and makes it one of the most innovative Ecommerce stores in home and decor.

Take-aways: Westwing has done so well because it focused on scaling from day one — and you can do the same. Always be one step ahead of the game and plan your next growth tactic to strategically grow your ecommerce store. Maybe you can branch out and sell another product, or save profit to reinvest back into your store? However, you plan to scale, make sure it’s always a core focus.

#5 – Jack Rudy Cocktail Co.

Why: This innovative Ecommerce startup is doing a lot of things right. For starters, their branding is simple and appealing, making their products look premium. And their products are pretty awesome too, with a quirky old-world feel. Their website is simple and professional and is powered by WooCommerce — putting products and branding front and center.

Take-aways: Jack Rudy Cocktail Co. sell premium products with a timeless edge to attract all kinds of different customers. Incorporate this into your Ecommerce startup through branding, to create something timeless that people will want to buy.

Innovation paves the way to success, especially when you’re a startup. Be creative to compete with the big players and get yourself noticed. Spend as much time as possible on your marketing, branding, and value propositions — and less time on web development and logistics! With all that the modern digital world can offer, you should be able to scale and move fast. For Ecommerce innovators, there are lots of useful WP plugins on the market, as well as the Shopify buy button integration for WordPress.

The post 5 Innovative Ecommerce Startups That Could Transform Your Business appeared first on WP Pluginsify.