Training and Open Source Business Models

With our February training classes just around the corner, I have been thinking about how training fits into the overall business model of an open source company.  We tend to think about providing support, maintenance, and consulting services to generate revenue for open source companies.  I usually lump training into the broader category of services when I think about open source business models without giving it much thought; however, training can play a significant role for some open source companies.

From a business standpoint, training is a more scalable service than some of the others. The materials can be developed and used several times with only minor modifications and delivered by one of the many experts within the open source company. By contrast, support and consulting services are usually tailored to the unique needs of an individual customer requiring a slightly different approach to each problem.  I always try to look for ways to improve scalability allowing our work to be leveraged multiple times. Training seems like a relatively scalable service that can be delivered to many people in a cost effective manner.

*Caution: Shameless Self Promotion Plug Below*

We still have a few seats left in our February training classes.  The next training class is three months away, so now would be a great time to attend training!

Installation Workshop: February 11, 2007
Intensive Training: February 12-16, 2007
Collaboration Mgmt: February 17, 2007
Technical Training: February 19-21, 2007

Comments

[Ramiro Vergara]

Dawn,

I have always wondered why Compiere's business model has been based on low value offerings such as training and technical support. An ERP solution provides direct access to very high value opportunities such as implementation QA and Business processes consulting. Red Hat and Novell would love to have this high value opportunities.

Huge mistake in my humble opinion.

Regards

Ramiro