This could be a problem with less popular products that aren't under the same scrutiny as things like Linux and Apache. And if you need someone trained in Oracle8 or Windows NT 4, you can find one by calling any local technical school. Only a few open-source vendors have begun such services, and it's unclear how successful they'll be in the long term. As a result, graphical user interfaces and convenient configuration and administration tools often aren't available. A move to an open-source product can't be taken lightly.
Support is still sketchy compared with more established commercial software.
Initial cost savings can be offset by other, less tangible expenses. The trade-off can be time, says Weiss. Articles also appear at Slashdot.org . Computerworld Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission of Computerworld Inc. is prohibited.