Sharing Open Source Software Application Services, Challenges And Opportunities For The Namibian Sme Sector

Abstract

Information and Communications Technology is improving at a very high pace. Software applications can be delivered in various forms, the internet growth has made it possible to have software delivered over the internet. One of the most interesting models created by the web is called Application Service Provider (ASP) model. ASP model offers completely a new way of selling and distributing software and software services. ASP services are expected to become an important alternative for smaller companies with low budgets for information technology. The study looked at a possibility of sharing software applications by SMEs in Namibia, it also entailed the work of analyzing whether sharing of applications is a prudent way of lowering software acquisition and maintenance costs. The study also consisted of two questionnaires to a randomly selected group of SMEs and ICT companies. The questionnaires looked at the ICT usage and outsourcing patterns among SMEs. The data results were used in analysis. A prototype web based application system was developed and implemented this allowed the researcher to gain an experience in the utilization of the ASP technology. The prototype application was implemented in Oracle 10g express edition for the database and oracle application express for the web based user interface. The Specific case was for accommodation management in hotels; however the general concept can be applied to any other line of business.