The idea that content should be freely available to use and distribute as people wish- without the restrictions from copyright and patents
Open Source
Open Data Licenses
Where software's source code is made available for modification and improvement
Used to explain how the data of organisations can be used.
Example Licenses:
Standard:
Examples Include:
Reusable licenses that provide consistency and possess broader terms of use.
- LibreOffice
- GNU (Image Manipulation)
Bespoke:
Used by governments and international organisations.
Open Content
Refers specifically to creative work that can be copied,edited and republished freely
Open Data Initiatives
These are organised at different levels and possess overlapping jurisdictions.
Examples Include:
-Soundcloud- Music sharing service
- Anything licensed under Creative Commons
Country Level:
Data featured is at a national level or just below. Often federated.
City and Subnational Levels:
Open Hardware
Initiatives which contain data from a smaller/more focussed scope.
Similar to Open Source Software, but instead refers to physical parts.
Examples Include:
Useful Open Data
- RepRap- A 3D printer that prints it's own parts for re-sale.
Closed Data
For Open Data to be considered useful it must meet certain conditions.
Closed data. is any form of data, ie 'digital data' for example, that is restricted for a reason. Pay walls along with encryption methods can be used, for issues concerning copyright and privacy, along with monetisation & political/commercial reasons.
Developers need to harness the data to make new and valuable products & services.
Developers must integrate open data into existing products or services.
Companies that support Open Data Include:
Examples of Closed Data
- Open Data Institute
- Open Knowledge Foundation
- ENGAGE platform
There are a few examples of Closed Data, they are often behind paywalls that stop the user from accessing data.
Examples of Closed Data include:
- The music service 'Tidal'
- Google Docs (Unless published)