Open source has long been a cornerstone of higher education technology, powering learning management systems, repositories, research infrastructure, identity management, and countless other campus systems. Yet the environment in which these projects operate is changing rapidly.
Drawing on longitudinal data from thousands of higher education institutions worldwide, this session explores how the role of open source is evolving. We’ll examine adoption trends across major technology categories, discuss where open source continues to thrive, and consider how AI, cloud platforms, interoperability, vendor consolidation, and changing institutional priorities are reshaping the landscape.
Rather than focusing on individual products, the session will explore the broader ecosystem and what today’s market signals suggest about the future of open source in higher education. The goal is to provide attendees with an objective, data-informed perspective that can help inform strategic planning, community investment, and technology decisions.
Learning Outcomes
- Understand how the adoption of open source software has evolved across higher education.
- Recognize the technology and market forces influencing the future of open source communities.
- Identify areas where open source continues to provide unique value for institutions.
- Use market data and long-term trends to support strategic planning and technology decision-making.
- Gain a broader perspective on how openness can continue to play a meaningful role in higher education’s next generation of digital transformation.