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Introduction

As FOSS becomes more mainstream the variant business models will encompass a business service that is a combination of FOSS and Commercial offerings. This module provides case studies to demonstrate how companies in eight African countries are already profiting from the benefits inherent in FOSS. The map below shows the location of the companies covered.

The case studies give practical advice based on reported experiences of a cross-section of FOSS business enterprises. Furthermore, the studies show that FOSS business models in Africa employ some innovative strategies and do business by combining FOSS products with proprietary software. The knowledge gain and practical exercises at the end of the module are meant to have a “Yes I can do it” effect. Common trends and practical experiences from the case studies are put together to generate a taxonomy of FOSS business models [Module 2.8] which are applicable in the African context. The case studies are also intended to act as a spring board to further understand what communication and business skills and strategies [Modules 3 - 5] we need to develop in order to build a successful FOSS business in Africa. The structured manner of the case studies may serve as a compendium of assignments for FOSS trainers [Module 6].

Learning Objectives

The learning objectives for Module 2 are as follows:

1. To understand the various services and solutions offered by ICT-Based SMEs in Africa.

2. To know the types of FOSS clientele and how their issues can be addressed in the Africa context.

3. To see the advantages and challenges FOSS can present to clients and start-up businesses.

4. To understand barriers of entry into FOSS business in Africa.

5. To know some profitable service sectors.

6. To understand the importance of networking with FOSS strategic partners and communities.

7. To understand what the FOSS business risks are and how to mitigate them.

8. To identify FOSS business models in use by ICT-based SMEs in Africa.