The Bitkom publication Practical Recommendations for Open Source Software (version 3.3) provides comprehensive guidance for companies and administrations that want to use and help shape open source in a targeted manner. The complete guide is available here as a PDF (currently only in German available). Key Contents at a Glance 1. Importance, Opportunities and Risks The guide starts with a

Open source is no longer a niche topic—in 2025, it is clearer than ever how indispensable open software has become for our digital world. Without open source solutions, large parts of data traffic, many platforms, and even smartphones would come to a standstill. At the same time, the open source community is a key driver of innovation, whether in cloud

Open source has long been more than just a development model—it is a key driver of innovation, competition, and digital sovereignty. But how can open source be effectively integrated into companies and organizations? What strategies ensure legal compliance and economic sustainability? And how can innovative approaches further advance the practical use of open source? The Bitkom Forum Open Source 2025

Bitkom has just published the brand new Bitkom Open Source Monitor 2023. Bitkom is the digital association in Germany; its members include more than 1,000 medium-sized companies, over 500 start-ups and almost all global players. The Open Source Monitor 2023 provides insightful answers to questions about the status quo, possible uses and challenges of open source software in Germany. You

Bitkom just released the brand new Bitkom Open Source Monitor 2021. Bitkom is Germany’s digital association, members come from more than 1,000 SMEs, over 500 startups and virtually all global players. The study is the result of a survey of more than 1,100 companies. Following the first edition two years ago, it shows what role open source software plays in