Comments on: What Sun+MySQL says about open-source business models

It's not so much that there aren't workable business models around open source. But life is so much easier when those models can include pieces that people have to pay for as well.

[Matt Asay]

Gordon, I think your understanding of MySQL's (and open source's) business model could use a little upgrade. MySQL hasn't just sold support subscriptions for over a year now. In fact, I can't think of an open-source company that only sells support.

No doubt that Sun is looking to sell more value around MySQL, but I think you're a bit off in thinking that MySQL isn't already selling more than mere support.

[ghaff]

Fair comment. I was using support as a shorthand for a variety of services. And, as you suggest, MySQL also sells more than just their open source product (hence my more-or-less pure open source qualifier).

[rompstar]

MySQL sells an Enterprise package which costs money, I use the MySQL free version, as I don't need an Enterprise level for my hobby linux box, but I can see how large Corporation could use it.