"Linux and open-source advocates have a passion for contributing. In this article, we explore the topic of Linux and open-source software serving government through the efforts of some interesting, geographically dispersed individuals. These individuals may not realize the profundity of their contributions, but then visionaries rarely do.
"The effect of open-source software on theories of economics has emerged again. In the most recent edition of Linux Journal, Doc Searls further illuminated the economic shift in the most profound distinction I have seen since I began the study of economics 25 years ago. In a quote from the article, "Practical Penguin Progress" (Linux Journal, August 2003), Doc states:
"Free software and open source are ways that the demand side supplies itself. Call this DIY-IT, or Do It Yourself Information Technology. In some cases, DIY-IT is so well developed that customers hardly need vendors at all.
"DIY-IT is causing a shift in market power from supply to demand...Here the demand side--the customer--is in a position to supply itself..."
