Author: Nabeel Ahmed (Open North)

As governments seek to adopt various technologies, open source solutions - those for which the source code is open, and which are free to use, redistribute, and modify - are an option that can help cities rapidly tailor widely-used solutions to their unique needs and join a large community of practice.

Comprised of 3 modules, Fundamentals of Open Source (HS100) is a basic course that provides an introduction to the concept of open source and how open source can be used as part of an open smart city approach. It describes the potential opportunities and risks of open source technologies for government, and identifies steps that government can take towards adopting an open source policy.

Once you have finished Fundamentals of Open Source (HS100) you should have an increased awareness and understanding of:

1. The open source ecosystem and how it has developed over the years
Context: What does "open source" refer to, and how has this field grown over the years?

2. The potential benefits and risks associated with using open source solutions for municipal governments
Investigation: What are the challenges and opportunities associated with open source solutions for communities?

3. Key steps in adopting open source solutions in your municipality
Activation: What steps are necessary to take to adopt open source solutions and developing an open source policy?