Opening up source code

Some good pointers to consider making a close source effort to open source. Here is an example of Ingres and how it transition from close source to open source.

Key points – and SCO/Unix fight has contributed to this learning.

• Comb every line of the source before opening it up and remove questionable references/code snippets
• Pick the right open source licence
• It takes some promotion and effort to attract open source community
• Security concerns are not any more vulnerable in Open Source than Close Source (Re-engineering usually attributes to similar security vulnerability than what one may find reviewing the source)

I would probably add following to the list:

• Understand business need. Both Closed Source and Open Source (or a combination) has its merit – so understand what problem is being tackled by opening the source
• Consider what open community suits the need and how it helps the community
• Consider business model and structural changes required 
• Consider the stage of product life cycle