Comparsion:The use of open source GIS software and its commercial counterparts

Summary of findings Investigation 1:

• Software developers were found to be the most aware and most likely to use open source software in their projects.

• “freedom to install the software on an unlimited number of computers” is considered the number 1 potential motive for using OS software followed by“free license charge” and “flexibility to modify the source code”

• A few participants of the user category mentioned challenges they faced with OS software with regards to usability.
  
  
  

Summary of finding for Investigation 2:

• Users usually have very high expectations regarding the spatial analysis they want to see.
  
• Even in projects that undergo a needs analysis phase, the functional requirements tend to change or “mature” as the project progresses.

• Most of the software used in web mapping projects proves to provide sufficient features for the project needs.
  
  
  
  

Summary of findings for Investigation 3:

• MapServer is a very competitive software and almost equivalent to its proprietary rivals.
  
• MapServer is in close contact with the industry and is compliant with numerous open standards.
  
• Installation of MapServer on Windows remains a challenge as compared to the proprietary products.