Navigate 2.1.3 – Commercial versus Open Virtual Classrooms Quest

An open source application would take precedence over a commercial product when: 

• Limited funds or resources are available 
• Limited participants required
• Limited time frame to set  up course
• All participants using the same applications

Strengths

Open Source	Commercial Product
Free	Works on multiple operating systems.
Secure	Secure
Easy Access /  Sign-Up	Customization
	Technical Support / Updates

Weaknesses

Open Source	Commercial Product
May only work with specific operating systems.	Costly
Limited number of participants for free and/or applications.	Requires Buy-In of Participants
Lack of Customization	Making a Long-Term Commitment