Barriers to Open-Source Software Adoption: Review and Synthesis

Free/Libre and Open Source Software (FLOSS) has had a profound impact on the field of Information Technology. While the adoption rates of FLOSS have been growing, extant research reports various significant barriers that inhibit widespread adoption. To develop a comprehensive overview of FLOSS adoption barriers, this study reviewed and synthesized 44 relevant articles published between 2003 and 2016. Based on the organizing logic of the Technology, Organization, Environment and Individual (TOEI) framework, we categorized the challenges and identified major adoption barriers in each dimension. Technology barriers include vendor lock-in, lack of maturity, and lack of external support. At the organizational level, companies often lack financial and human resources, as well as adequate managerial support. Environmental aspects include culture, policies, and legal frameworks. Individual factors, such as employees’ resistance to change and risk-averse leadership may also negatively influence the adoption process