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Type Paper
Cite as Citation reference for the source document. Pearce, J.M., (2017). Emerging Business Models for Open Source Hardware. Journal of Open Hardware. 1(1), p.2. DOI: http://doi.org/10.5334/joh.4 open access

The rise of Free and Open Source models for software development has catalyzed the growth of Free and Open Source hardware (also known as "Libre Hardware"). Libre Hardware is gaining significant traction in the scientific hardware community, where there is evidence that open development creates both technically superior and far less expensive scientific equipment than proprietary models. In this article, the evidence is reviewed and a collection of examples of business models is developed to service scientists who have the option to manufacture their own equipment using Open Source designs. Profitable Libre Hardware business models are reviewed, which includes kit, specialty component, and calibration suppliers for makers. The results indicate that Libre Hardware businesses should target technically sophisticated customers first and, as usability matures, target expanded markets of conventional consumers.

Keywords[edit | edit source]

Open Source, Open Source Hardware, Libre Hardware, Business Models, Innovation

See also[edit | edit source]

In the News[edit | edit source]

  • Emerging Business Models for Open Source Hardware - Wevolver
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Authors Joshua M. Pearce
License CC-BY-SA-3.0
Language English (en)
Related 0 subpages, 20 pages link here
Impact 604 page views
Created March 23, 2017 by Joshua M. Pearce
Modified December 23, 2023 by StandardWikitext bot
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