Introduction

Although the majority of this handbook is about open source computer software, the idea of "open source" is not just limited to intangible software systems, but is also extending to the design of physical objects. Groups around the world are now setting up complex projects - such as electrically powered motor vehicles - in which the complete details of the design are made public. That is the design is released as open source under an open source license.

So why should you as a manager consider using the ideas of open source hardware in your organisation's product designs? This chapter gives an outline of the practicalities of open source hardware design, its benefits, how it is released and also some examples of real-world projects and project groups using open source hardware design principles.