Open-source software is a fundamental part of the modern software development landscape. By allowing users to freely access, modify, and distribute software code, open-source licences have transformed the way software is created and shared. However, not all open-source licences are created equal. Some may have restrictions that limit the freedoms typically associated with open-source software.

In a recent article, software consultancy firm Thoughtworks has warned that some open-source licences are only ‘open-ish,’ meaning that they may have restrictions that prevent users from fully enjoying the benefits of open-source software. Thoughtworks argues that developers need to be aware of these restrictions and carefully consider the implications of using software covered by such licences.

One of the main concerns highlighted by Thoughtworks is the proliferation of so-called ‘permissive’ licences, which allow users to freely use and modify the software code but impose restrictions on how the software can be distributed. For example, some permissive licences may require users to make their modifications to the software publicly available, effectively limiting the ability to create proprietary versions of the software.

Thoughtworks also points out that some open-source licences may have restrictions related to the use of the software in certain environments or for certain purposes. For example, the Affero General Public Licence (AGPL) requires that any software modified under the licence must be made available to users over a network, potentially limiting the use of the software in certain commercial applications.

In light of these concerns, Thoughtworks recommends that developers carefully review open-source licences before using software covered by them. By understanding the rights and obligations associated with a particular licence, developers can make informed decisions about how to use open-source software in their projects.

Ultimately, the goal of Thoughtworks’ article is to raise awareness about the nuances of open-source licences and encourage developers to be mindful of the potential limitations associated with some licences. By promoting a better understanding of open-source licences, Thoughtworks hopes to empower developers to make informed decisions about how to leverage the power of open-source software in their projects.