Open Source Psychology/Why Open Source

Introduction

Many Psychology projects already benefit from Open Source Software, weather it is general open source applications, or specific software such as psychopy.

Advantages

More often than not, open-source software and publicly available resources are free of charge and more powerful than proprietary software and costly services. This also allows for more reliable and inclusive collaboration, as sharing files and information does not require that others spend money on licensing or instruction manuals. In addition, if you are the programmer-type, you can adapt these resources to your needs, and create unique solutions that would otherwise be impossible.

Having materials open source or publicly available gives people the freedom to cooperate with one another, and that's why open source material generally progresses quickly. Wikipedia, for example, is a vast repository of information today because users are able to contribute their ideas and words to something they know will be useful. And arguably, that's a motive to do well with their contributions. Authors write things they like and they find their audience willing to listen and the audience can become authors as well and contribute their talents.

Disadvantages

Though more powerful, many of these options have a steeper learning curve. But don't be discouraged! Though it may take longer to get started with the resources described in this wikibook, the payoff will be worth it!