Open Source Software Solutions: 20 Years of Trials and Triumphs

Reflecting on my 20-year journey in the open source software solutions ecosystem, I realize it has been a complex path. When I founded XWiki in 2004, I aimed to create open-source software to help organizations collaborate and share knowledge. Back then, I didn’t fully understand that open source is not just a technical choice; it represents a mindset that demands resilience to uphold that vision.

Over the years, I made mistakes, faced challenges, and learned important lessons. These experiences shaped my understanding of open source, business, and success.

What stands out the most is that open source is fundamentally about people. The code is essential, but the real strength lies in how individuals and organizations collaborate. I have seen firsthand how open source fosters a sense of shared purpose. Users are not merely paying customers; they become contributors, partners, and advocates.

A key lesson is that community-driven development leads to more sustainable and adaptable products. In contrast to closed systems, where users are restricted to the features the company deems essential, open-source users can directly influence the product’s development and roadmap.

The Challenges Ahead

The open-source path takes work. I didn’t have a salary for several years, and we struggled financially. Initially, I was overly optimistic, believing that offering a free and open platform would naturally attract paying customers. While that is partially true, I learned that “free-riders” — those who use the software without contributing — can hinder its long-term growth and development.

It is essential to educate clients on why they should support the initiative and demonstrate the benefits beyond just the “free” aspect.

Staying Resilient

Resilience has been a recurring theme in the XWiki journey. There were many opportunities to choose a proprietary model or take shortcuts for quick cash flow. However, I have always believed in the long-term value of open source, including its principles of transparency, user control, and community-driven development. Turning down venture capital offers or resisting pressure to commercialize everything is challenging. However, I firmly believe that success is not solely about fast growth; it’s about meaningful growth.

If I could start over, I would change our approach to freemium. Initially, we gave away too much without defining what would be part of a paid model. Over time, we found a better balance. Now, we offer business-ready extensions as part of a paid plan while keeping XWiki’s core open source. This way, we can fund development without compromising our commitment to open-source software solutions.

I have always advocated for creating businesses designed to last. I’m not drawn to the “quick win” mentality. It’s a reminder that we didn’t take the easy route, and I’m glad we didn’t. I hear others talking about quick fixes or chasing the next big trend. We have kept control over our vision and values by maintaining our independence, avoiding venture funding, and sticking to ethical business practices.

The Importance of Digital Sovereignty

The rise of Big Tech has underscored the need for digital sovereignty. I’ve witnessed how centralized platforms can gradually diminish users’ control over their data and software. I believe open source is a critical path to regaining that control — whether you are an individual, business, or government. With open-source software, you own your infrastructure and are not subject to a vendor’s changing prices, terms, or direction.

To provide alternatives to centralized solutions, we developed CryptPad, an encrypted, privacy-respecting alternative to tools like Google Docs. It hasn’t been easy, but this project aligns with my core belief: people should have control over their data.

We need to improve how the community communicates the benefits of open source. Discussions often focus on the “free vs. paid” debate. In reality, the crucial distinction is between dependence and freedom. We must better explain how individuals can take charge of their data, privacy, and future through open source.

The Lesson of User Experience

One of the hardest lessons I learned is that more than having great software is needed. Even with a strong product, users will leave if they struggle to use it. I wish we had prioritized user experience from the start. Instead of focusing on features that appealed to technical users, we should have aimed for broader usability. This was a mistake.

Through experience, I’ve learned that usability drives acceptance, especially in open source. The software should empower users, not intimidate them. If I could redo anything, I would invest more time in ensuring our products were user-friendly. Building trust and lasting connections with users depends on a positive experience.

Looking Back and Ahead

I retrospectively underestimated how long it takes to build a long-term open-source company. If I had to do it again, I would allow for more growth time. Although it’s looking for shortcuts is tempting, open-source projects need time to flourish.

Additionally, I would focus more on marketing. Many open-source projects need to pay more attention to the importance of conveying value to non-technical audiences instead of focusing on technical aspects. I’ve learned that even the best software needs to be explained to those who need it, or it won’t get the adoption it deserves.

Looking ahead, open source will continue to grow in importance, especially as more businesses prioritize digital sovereignty, privacy, and transparency. Open source will play a vital role in providing alternatives that adapt to changes, particularly with new regulations targeting Big Tech.

One thing is sure: open source is here to stay. What began as a slight movement fueled by passionate developers has become the backbone of modern technology. The most important lesson I’ve learned is that open source is not just about the code but the community, the freedom, and the future we are all building together.