Open source software - Beyond the download button

The use of open source software is increasing rapidly over a wide array of product markets and regions. The SIW community is taking an increasing interest in the use of open source software in the modelling and simulation domain. At the Fall 2006 SIW, there were several papers examining open source projects, and open source software was the theme of the Academic Night. This paper is in response to requests for more information following a presentation at the Academic Night. Frequently asked questions include: how do companies make money from open source software? What are the advantages and risks of relying on open source software to generate revenue? What happens after companies release proprietary software as open source? What is the future of open source software in the modelling and simulation domain? The purpose of this paper is to advance answers to these frequently asked questions