Open source organisations merge

The combined OW2 and OSA aims to promote the open source model around the world

Two open source organisations - the OW2 Consortium and the Open Solutions Alliance (OSA), both of which represent developers, vendors and consumers - are merging with the aim of promoting R&D, distribution, and adoption of open source software.

Effectively the Paris-based OW2 Consortium is taking over the California-based OSA, which will become the North American Chapter of the OW2.

“There is no doubting the open source movement's importance in driving innovation both in the technological and commercial aspects of IT, but unlike 'commercial' software vendors, the movement has no clear leadership or direction,” said Quocirca analyst Bob Tarzey.

“While no one wants to see innovation stifled, the coming together of OW2 and OSA will provide a more coherent global voice for open source and better positions it to take on the 'commercial' vendors,” added Tarzey.

The OW2 was initially founded in January 2007 to develop a code base of open source middleware, but now includes applications too. The OSA, also founded in 2007, was created to drive the adoption of open source applications in enterprises and foster collaboration between commercial open source vendors to increase open source interoperability.

"When you look at each organisation's strengths in technology and market presence, as well as the global positioning of our members, OSA and OW2 look like two puzzle pieces waiting to be put together," said Cedric Thomas, OW2 chief executive.

The combined organisation intends to use the technical skills and global reach of
its members to develop a diversified portfolio of open source components and promote the open source model in enterprises, academia and government.