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Why we choose the Open Source Way

At EspoCRM, we believe that good software should be accessible and easy to adapt and that’s why we decided to build an open-source CRM system. Every business runs differently and software that can’t be adjusted to match its internal processes often creates unnecessary obstacles. Open-source solutions offer companies more freedom. They can customize the software, manage deployments their own way, create custom extensions and integrations without unnecessary limitations.

Open-source software lets solo entrepreneurs and businesses make the most of an application without committing to expensive subscriptions or licensing agreements. This is especially helpful for small companies or startups with limited capital, as it enables them to kickstart their businesses with zero investment. With EspoCRM, you can start your company without spending much money – it’s actually completely free. The system can be downloaded and installed on your own server, with no hidden charges, user limits, or extra fees. What’s more, it helps companies avoid dependency on a single vendor because you are free to choose where and how to host, support, and manage your system.

Another huge advantage of open source is that it’s tested by a large number of people. The open-source model is based on the principle of sharing and collaborating on projects openly, which makes technology more accessible. This means that anyone can contribute ideas, fixes, or improvements and further facilitate the growth and development of the product.

A common project and a shared purpose naturally bring people together and build strong communities. People who use open-source software are not passive users; they study it, customize it, and improve it every day. That diversity of experience generates ideas and solutions that wouldn’t be created in a traditional closed development process. Real-world experiences, common use cases, or unique customizations are exchanged freely between developers and users to benefit everyone who uses the system. It keeps open-source projects adaptable and relevant as the needs of businesses, industries, and markets change.

In addition to being rigorously tested by the community, open source products also tend to grow much faster than the alternative ones. When the code is open, contributions can come from anywhere. It could be a developer fixing a bug, a business sharing a custom workflow, or a user suggesting a feature the core team hadn’t considered. This constant flow of ideas keeps the product moving in directions that reflect what real people actually need.

EspoCRM is licensed under the GNU Affero General Public License Version 3 (AGPLv3).

Recommended reading:

https://www.espocrm.com/what-is-crm/
https://www.espocrm.com/what-is-open-source-crm/
https://www.espocrm.com/open-source/