Emerging Business Models for Open Source Hardware

By Michigan Tech's Open Sustainability Technology Lab. Wanted: Students to make a distributed future with solar-powered open-source RepRap 3-D printing and recyclebot recycling. Contact Dr. Joshua Pearce or Apply here MOST on RepRap: Projects and Publications], Methods, Lit. reviews Twitter updates @ProfPearce

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Source

• 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

Abstract

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:

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

See also

• Sponsored Libre Research Agreements to Create Free and Open Source Software and Hardware
• Life-cycle economic analysis of distributed manufacturing with open-source 3-D printers
• Quantifying the Value of Open Source Hardware Development
• Open-source, self-replicating 3-D printer factory for small-business manufacturing
• Distributed manufacturing with 3-D printing: a case study of recreational vehicle solar photovoltaic mounting systems
• Global value chains from a 3D printing perspective
• Emergence of Home Manufacturing in the Developed World: Return on Investment for Open-Source 3-D Printers

In the News

• Emerging Business Models for Open Source Hardware - Wevolver