Applying open-source solutions in e-learning environment

E-learning as a network-enabled transfer of skills and knowledge is powered by solutions originating from both commercial and non-commercial producers. As the purchase and maintenance of computer software typically accounts for 20 percent of an institution’s IT budget, higher education institutions can no longer afford to limit themselves to using traditional fee-based proprietary software. When appropriately managed, the use of open-source software can provide an institution with more effective and less costly software solutions. This paper deals with implementation of open source software solutions based on open standards in e-learning environment of higher education institutions. Open standards ensure interoperability that is critical to any distributed e-learning system.