Blog English

Email Us |TEL: 050-1720-0641 | LinkedIn

Mintarc Forge	Contact Us	News Letter	Blog	Partners
Collaboration	Questions?	Monthly Letter	Monthly Blog	Our Partners

Apr 03 2025 - Understanding the Value of Free and Open Source Software from a Japanese SME point of view

FOSS represents a transformative approach to software creation, distribution, and utilization. It is defined by licenses that grant users the freedom to use, study, modify, and distribute software for any purpose. This stands in stark contrast to proprietary software, which imposes restrictions on usage and modification. FOSS empowers users by fostering transparency, collaboration, and continuous improvement

The term "free" in FOSS refers primarily to freedom—akin to "free speech"—rather than cost. While many FOSS solutions are free of charge, their true value lies in the freedoms they offer. The Free Software Foundation (FSF) outlines four key freedoms:

1. Freedom to run the program for any purpose: This ensures businesses can utilize the software without operational restrictions.
2. Freedom to study and modify the program: Access to source code allows businesses to customize software for specific needs.
3. Freedom to redistribute copies: This promotes collaboration and sharing within business networks.
4. Freedom to distribute modified versions: Users can share improvements, fostering innovation.

The Open Source Initiative (OSI) complements this by emphasizing the public availability of source code with minimal restrictions, focusing on practical benefits like development efficiency. Despite philosophical differences, FSF and OSI largely overlap in their recognized software licenses.

Challenges Faced by Japanese Small Businesses

Japanese small and medium enterprises (SMEs) operate in a unique environment marked by significant challenges:

• Aging Population and Workforce Shortages: A declining workforce and difficulty finding successors for family-run businesses threaten long-term viability.
• High Operating Costs: Rent, labor, and taxes strain profit margins.
• Lack of Digitalization: Many SMEs lack basic online presences or e-commerce capabilities, limiting competitiveness.
• Financing Difficulties: Banks often favor larger corporations, making it hard for SMEs to secure capital.
• Language Barriers: Limited English proficiency hinders access to global technological resources.
• Cultural Factors: Consensus-based decision-making and hierarchical structures can slow technology adoption.
• Reliance on Outdated Methods: Continued use of cash and fax machines reflects resistance to modernization.
• Complex Bureaucracy: Administrative burdens divert resources from innovation.

Technology adoption among Japanese SMEs is slow, with limited use of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS). A risk-averse culture further impedes progress. Many SMEs also face a "subscription trap," paying for overlapping software services without optimizing usage.

Opportunities Offered by FOSS for Japanese SMEs

For Japanese SMEs navigating these challenges, FOSS offers significant advantages:

Cost Reduction

• FOSS eliminates licensing fees associated with proprietary software, resulting in substantial savings for budget-conscious SMEs. The total cost of ownership (TCO) is often lower due to reduced maintenance costs and avoidance of vendor lock-in.

Flexibility and Customization

• Access to source code enables businesses to tailor software to their specific needs, integrate it with existing systems, or develop new features—offering control unavailable with proprietary solutions.

Broad Software Availability

• FOSS provides alternatives for virtually all business needs, helping SMEs avoid overlapping subscriptions and reducing dependency on costly proprietary options.

Innovation Through Collaboration

• The open-source model fosters a collaborative environment where users contribute improvements and share solutions, driving continuous innovation.

Look at this break down for example in terms of licenses costs:

Software Category	Common Proprietary Software in Japan	Typical Annual Cost for SME (5 Users)	Comparable FOSS Solution(s)	Typical Annual Cost for FOSS Solution	Potential Annual Savings
Office Suite	Microsoft 365 Business Standard	¥75,000 - ¥100,000	LibreOffice, Apache OpenOffice	¥0	¥75,000 - ¥100,000
Accounting Software	Yayoi Accounting Standard	¥30,000 - ¥50,000	GnuCash, Odoo Community	¥0 (Odoo optional paid apps)	¥30,000 - ¥50,000
CRM	Salesforce Essentials	¥180,000 - ¥300,000	SuiteCRM, Vtiger CRM	¥0 (Support and advanced features optional)	¥180,000 - ¥300,000
Project Management	Asana (Business Tier)	¥150,000 - ¥250,000	Redmine, Taiga.io	¥0 (Hosting and advanced features optional)	¥150,000 - ¥250,000

Note: Costs are approximate and can vary. Proprietary software costs are based on subscription models. FOSS solutions may have optional costs for support or advanced features.

Limited Visibility of FOSS Success Stories in Japanese SMEs

The increasing trend of open-source adoption across Asia indicates regional recognition of its value, suggesting opportunities for Japanese SMEs to align with this movement. Within Japan, major corporations like Hitachi actively contribute to open-source communities, signaling growing awareness of its strategic importance. This involvement by larger entities can serve as social proof, encouraging smaller businesses to explore FOSS benefits. Furthermore, the Japanese government's interest in secure OSS utilization points to potential future support and initiatives that could facilitate FOSS adoption among SMEs.

Effective Communication Strategies for Promoting FOSS Adoption

Reaching Japanese small business owners requires a culturally sensitive communication strategy. Given Japan's preference for indirect communication, simply listing FOSS features may not resonate as strongly as demonstrating its value through relatable stories and testimonials from other Japanese businesses. Leveraging trust networks within the business community—such as industry associations and local chambers of commerce—can be more effective than broad marketing campaigns.

Educational materials must be highly localized, addressing specific concerns like compatibility with existing Japanese software and workflows. Organizing seminars and workshops tailored to non-technical business owners and conducted in Japanese can demonstrate practical benefits. Developing case studies of successful FOSS adoption by similar businesses and presenting them in Japanese will provide tangible evidence of its value. Partnering with industry associations and local business support organizations can help reach a broader audience while lending credibility to the message.

Highlighting cost-effectiveness and potential savings addresses a key concern for SMEs. Directly addressing security concerns and dispelling myths about open-source security is crucial for building trust. Demonstrating user-friendly FOSS alternatives to commonly used proprietary software through localized tutorials can lower adoption barriers. Fully localizing FOSS solutions and documentation into Japanese ensures accessibility. Engaging policymakers to promote FOSS adoption and potentially offer incentives could create a more supportive environment. Providing accessible training and support resources in Japanese further eases the transition for SMEs.

Current State of the FOSS Ecosystem in Japan

Japan's FOSS ecosystem provides a strong foundation for growth. The Open Source Group Japan has been promoting open-source culture for over two decades, offering expertise and networks that can be tapped into. Japan's history of contributing to global open-source projects, such as the Ruby programming language, demonstrates existing technical talent within the country.

Major corporations like Hitachi increasingly engage with open-source communities, signaling awareness of its strategic importance. The Linux Foundation Japan hosts annual Open Source Summits, providing platforms for community engagement. The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) has shown interest in OSS security utilization, suggesting potential government backing.

However, challenges remain: bridging the knowledge gap about specific FOSS benefits among SMEs, addressing concerns about regulatory compliance and intellectual property issues, and encouraging active contributions to OSS projects from Japanese organizations—including SMEs. Non-technical benefits like community building and fostering collaboration may also be underappreciated.

Collaborating with established organizations like the Open Source Group Japan presents opportunities for outreach initiatives targeting SMEs. The growing involvement of major corporations in OSS serves as social proof that can encourage smaller businesses to explore its potential further. Government interest in secure OSS utilization offers avenues for advocating policies supporting SME adoption.

Addressing Misconceptions About FOSS

Misconceptions about FOSS hinder trust among Japanese SMEs. The perceived lack of support is a significant barrier; highlighting robust community support networks available for many FOSS projects is essential. Showcasing local Japanese FOSS communities or support providers can alleviate these concerns.

The perceived complexity of implementation deters SMEs with limited IT expertise; focusing on user-friendly distributions and providing clear guides and training materials in Japanese can lower this barrier significantly. Compatibility concerns with existing software need addressing through examples of successful integrations or compatibility testing initiatives.

The misconception that FOSS is less secure due to its open nature must be countered by emphasizing security benefits such as community reviews and rapid vulnerability patching. Providing evidence of major FOSS projects' security track records builds confidence among hesitant adopters

Helping Japanese small businesses to understand the value of FOSS requires a multi-faceted approach focused on education, community building, and trust development. By clearly articulating tangible benefits—such as cost savings, flexibility, security, and choice—while addressing specific cultural challenges and concerns, widespread adoption among SMEs can be achieved.

Feb 19 2025 check out XWiki

Our team at mintarc we use MediaWiki as a core tool for our collaboration. It is an incredibly versatile and efficient platform that perfectly suits our needs.

But recently we ran across xWiki that we thought would be a really good share. It is an open-source enterprise wiki platform LGPL version 2.1

It supports real-time editing, allowing multiple users to work on the same document simultaneously.

Users can create custom structures using tools like "App Within Minutes," edit documents through forms, and navigate data using filterable live tables.

XWiki also integrates with LDAP/Active Directory support, single sign-on (SSO), permissions management.

There is also a lot of extensions available as well. 💪

From what we can see the core XWiki platform is free and open-source, there are optional paid services and extensions available through XWiki SAS, the company supporting the project. These include professional support plans and access to "Pro Applications," which are licensed separately.

While it is not the "mintarc cup of tea"... 😉 We do think it is worth a look if you need a solution that is self-hosted and a strong community You can check it out here... https://www.xwiki.org/

Jan 8 2025 - Here is kind of a "Beginner's Guide"

Today I want to help small businesses understand [matrix] - for mintarc this is our go to communication tool, that we use, for our team members. Nexcloud Talk is a really god tool as well, but [matrix] really hits the sweet spot for us.

[matrix] is an open-source communication protocol designed for real-time messaging. It's a versatile platform that offers instant messaging, group chats, file sharing, and voice and video calls. Like other similar tools it has built-in end-to-end encryption, ensuring that conversations remain private and secure.

One way to think of the [matrix] protocol is like email - you need an email client (like Proton or Thunderbird) to read and send messages. So with [matrix] you use a "matrix client" to read and send messages.

A list of clients can be found here:

• https://matrix.org/ecosystem/clients/

Decentralized

[matrix] is decentralized - it means that the communication system operates without a central point of control or authority. This decentralization has several important implications:

1. No single point of failure: Unlike centralized systems, there's no single server or company controlling all communications
2. Data sovereignty: Users and organizations can host their own Matrix servers (called homeservers), giving them full control and ownership over their data
3. Federation: [matrix] servers can communicate with each other, allowing users on different servers to interact seamlessly
4. Resilience: If one server goes offline, other servers in the network continue to function, maintaining communication for their users
5. Scalability: The decentralized nature allows [matrix] to power large-scale deployments, even at national or global levels
6. Interoperability:[matrix] can connect with other communication systems, enhancing its versatility
7. Privacy and security: Decentralization, combined with end-to-end encryption, provides a robust approach to securing communications
8. Freedom of choice: Users can choose or switch between different [matrix] servers or even set up their own, without losing access to the broader [matrix] network

Getting Started with Matrix

• Choosing Your Matrix Home: To begin, you'll need to select a client application. Element is a popular and user-friendly option available on web browsers, desktops, and mobile devices. It's like choosing your favorite messaging app, but with more flexibility. many of our team members use Element , I personally use SchildiChat on my Android and Cinny for the desktop.

• Setting Up Shop: Next, you'll need to decide on a homeserver. Think of this as your [matrix] address. You can use a public homeserver like matrix.org, or for more control, set up your own. (We run our own server here at mintarc) It's similar to choosing between a free email service or hosting your own email server.

• Creating Your Matrix Identity: Once you've chosen your homeserver, you'll create an account using your selected [matrix] client. This process is straightforward, much like signing up for any other online service.

• Locking Down Your Messages: [matrix] offers strong encryption, but it's important to set up secure backups for your encryption keys. This ensures you don't accidentally lock yourself out of your own messages. Think of it as creating a spare key for your digital conversations.

• Exploring Your New Communication Hub: Take some time to familiarize yourself with the features. Try sending messages, sharing files, and making voice or video calls.

Features for Growing Businesses

• Building Bridges: [matrix] can connect to other services like Slack or Telegram. In PeppermintOS they connect to Discord. This feature is called bridging, and it's like having a universal translator for different messaging platforms. Here is all the stuff [matrix] can bridge to: https://matrix.org/ecosystem/bridges/

• Making It Your Own: As your business grows, you might want to customize your Matrix server further. This could include hosting bots to automate tasks or integrating with other business tools. It's like adding extensions to your web browser to enhance its functionality.

Benefits for Your Small Business

• Control and Ownership: With [matrix], you have the option to host your own server. This means you're in charge of your data and communications, giving you a level of control that's rare with other messaging platforms.

• Cost-Effective Solution: If you choose to self-host [matrix], it can be more budget-friendly than paying for individual user licenses on commercial platforms. This can lead to significant savings, especially as your team grows.

• Plays Well with Others: [matrix] is designed to be interoperable. It can connect with other communication platforms, making it easier to stay in touch with clients or partners who might be using different systems.

• Fort Knox for Your Messages: The built-in end-to-end encryption is like a digital fortress for your business communications. It ensures that sensitive information stays between you and your intended recipients.

• Tailor-Made for You: Being open-source, You can customize it to fit your specific business needs, adding or modifying features as required.

Thoughts on your data

Especially in Japan, where the business environment is rapidly evolving in terms of data privacy awareness, it's crucial to carefully consider data protection and ownership before investing in centralized SaaS communication services. The Act on the Protection of Personal Information (APPI) now mandates stricter compliance for all businesses handling personal data

1. Your data is valuable, even if you don't realize it.
2. Protecting your information should be a top priority.
3. Ownership of your data can have long-term implications.

In closing

Adopting Matrix, your small business can enjoy a secure, flexible, and cost-effective communication solution. It offers greater control and customization compared to mainstream alternatives, allowing your communication system to grow and adapt with your business needs. You're not just choosing a communication platform – you're selecting a security-first approach that protects your business's most sensitive conversations and collaborative work. The platform's open-source architecture also allows for continuous security improvements and transparency, giving you greater control over your digital communication infrastructure.

Dec 15 2024 - Search Engines and Alternatives in FOSS

Have Japanese businesses thought about what kind of data is collected when their team members use popular search services, such as Google and Bing? Both collect various types of data when users interact with their search engines.

Search Query Data

Both search engines record the actual search terms and phrases users enter.

This allows them to:

• Improve search algorithms and results relevance
• Provide personalized search suggestions
• Target ads based on search intent

Location Data

• General location based on IP address
• More precise location if location services are enabled

Device and Browser Details

• Type of device (mobile, desktop, tablet)
• Operating system
• Browser used

Account Information

If signed in, additional data like email address and account preferences may be linked to searches.

Click-through Data

Both track which search results users click on and how long they spend on sites before returning to results.

Search History

A log of past searches is maintained, though retention policies differ:

• Google automatically deletes search history after 18 months for new accounts
• Bing keeps search history for 18 months unless manually deleted sooner

On-Site Activity

For users logged into associated services (e.g. Gmail, Outlook), activity across those platforms may be linked to search data.

Technical Data

• IP address
• Date and time of searches
• Unique identifiers stored in cookies

How Data is Used

This collected information serves several purposes:

• Personalizing search results and suggestions
• Improving search algorithms
• Targeting advertising
• Analyzing search trends and user behavior

Privacy Considerations

While both engines collect similar types of data, there are some differences in privacy approaches:

• Google offers options to turn off data collection for advertising
• Bing doesn't provide an option to disable personalized search or data collection
• Both allow users to view and delete their search history

What are the alternatives?

With FOSS there is always alternatives, :-) . In this case we can talk about SearXNG.

It is a free and open-source metasearch engine that aggregates search results from over 70 different search services, including Google and DuckDuckGo. It is designed to prioritize user privacy, ensuring that users are neither tracked nor profiled during their searches.

If businesses host their own, they are not relying on any third-party SaaS search services.

Key Features of SearXNG

SearXNG acts as an intermediary between users and search engines, offering several benefits:

• Privacy Protection: It doesn't store user data or search history, enhancing user privacy.
• Customization: Users can select which search engines to query and customize the interface.
• Diverse Results: By combining results from various sources, it provides a broader range of information.

Federated Search Approach Whart is Federation?:

• SearXNG doesn't maintain its own index of web pages.
• Instead, it sends user queries to multiple search engines and websites simultaneously.
• It then aggregates, ranks, and presents the combined results to the user.

Benefits of Federation:

• Comprehensive Results: By querying multiple sources, SearXNG offers a more complete set of search results.
• Reduced Bias: Aggregating from various engines helps mitigate the bias of any single search algorithm.
• Enhanced Privacy: The original search engines don't receive user information directly.

How It Works

1. Query Submission: A user enters a search query on the SearXNG interface.
2. Distributed Search: SearXNG forwards this query to multiple configured search engines and websites.
3. Result Collection: It gathers results from all these sources in real-time.
4. Aggregation and Ranking: The collected results are combined and ranked based on relevance.
5. Presentation: The final, aggregated results are displayed to the user.

Customization and Deployment

SearXNG can be self-hosted, allowing individuals or organizations to set up their own instance with customized settings, including:

• Selection of search engines to query
• Result ranking preferences
• User interface customization

If organizations understand the federated approach, they can appreciate how it offers a unique, privacy-focused search experience that combines results from multiple sources while protecting user data.

Why would a company want to host their own search engine?

1. Enhanced privacy: By hosting their own search engine, a company can ensure that employee search queries are not tracked or logged by third-party search providers. This protects sensitive company information and employee privacy.
2. Customization: SearXNG allows extensive customization of the search experience. A company could tailor the search engines used, adjust result rankings, and customize the interface to match their brand and needs.
3. Control over data: With their own instance, the company has full control over search data and can implement their own data retention and security policies.
4. Avoid censorship or filtering: Some countries or networks may restrict access to certain search engines. A self-hosted SearXNG instance can bypass these restrictions.
5. Integration with internal systems: The company could potentially integrate SearXNG with their intranet or other internal knowledge bases to provide unified search across all company resources.
6. Cost savings: For large organizations, hosting their own search solution could potentially be more cost-effective than paying for enterprise search services.
7. Compliance: Some industries have strict regulations about data handling. A self-hosted solution allows the company to ensure compliance with these regulations.
8. Reduced reliance on third parties: By hosting their own search engine, the company reduces dependency on external service providers.
9. Improved security: The company can implement their own security measures and have greater control over who has access to the search data.

Any data that is created by an organization or an individual has some kind of value. Be aware of the data that is created and if you can don’t give it away so easily.

Nov 25 2024 - Why do Japan SMEs not see value in FOSS

Small businesses in Japan often do not see the value in Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) due to several factors:

Lack of Awareness

Many small businesses in Japan are not aware of the variety and capabilities of FOSS solutions available. This knowledge gap prevents them from exploring these options, which could potentially streamline operations and cut costs.

Language and Cultural Barriers

Language barriers significantly impact the adoption of FOSS in Japan. Many FOSS projects are community-based and often organized in English, which can be a hurdle for Japanese businesses. Additionally, there is a cultural perception that open-source software is not backed by a company, which can lead to skepticism about its reliability

Work Culture

The demanding work culture in Japan, characterized by long hours and high pressure, leaves little time for employees to explore or contribute to FOSS projects. This lack of engagement with the FOSS community further limits awareness and adoption

Subscription Trap

Japanese small businesses often fall into the “subscription trap,” where they subscribe to multiple software services, leading to financial drain and inefficiency. FOSS could help mitigate these issues by offering cost-effective alternatives without subscription fees, but the awareness and understanding of these benefits are limited.

Those things cause other issues such as:

Financial Inefficiency

Small businesses often fall into a “subscription trap,” paying for multiple software services with overlapping functionalities. This leads to unnecessary expenses and financial drain, as companies pay for advanced features they never use or duplicate services. You see this everywhere in the business world in Japan.

Missed Opportunities

By not exploring FOSS alternatives, Japanese small businesses miss out on:

1. Cost savings from free or significantly less expensive software options #Increased flexibility and customization possibilities #The ability to scale gradually and add features as needed #Freedom from vendor lock-in

Reduced Competitiveness

The lack of FOSS adoption can hinder a company’s ability to streamline operations and boost productivity. This puts Japanese small businesses at a disadvantage compared to their counterparts in other countries who leverage FOSS to create more efficient, tailored tech ecosystems

Technological Stagnation

The limited awareness and adoption of FOSS solutions contribute to a slower pace of technological advancement within these businesses. This can result in reduced innovation and difficulty in keeping up with global technological trends

It does not have to be this way

Japanese small businesses can position themselves for success, but the transition may require effort and cultural shifts, but the potential benefits in terms of cost savings, flexibility, and innovation make it a crucial step for the future of Japan’s small business sector.

The importance of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) for Japanese small businesses cannot be overstated. By ignoring FOSS, these companies are missing out on significant opportunities for growth, innovation, and cost savings.

Oct 16 2024 - Free and Open Source Software in Japan: Untapped Potential for Small Businesses

Japan has a rich history of technological innovation, yet many small businesses in the country remain hesitant to embrace Free and Open Source Software (FOSS). This reluctance stems from misconceptions about support availability and a lack of awareness regarding the benefits FOSS can offer. Let’s explore the current landscape and potential of FOSS in Japan’s small business sector.

The Current State of FOSS in Japan

Japan has been actively involved in the open source movement for over two decades. The Open Source Group Japan, established in 2000, has been promoting the spread of open source culture and engaging in activities to protect it.

Despite this long-standing presence, many small businesses in Japan are still unfamiliar with FOSS and its advantages.

Misconceptions About Support

One of the primary concerns among small businesses in Japan is the perceived lack of support for FOSS. Many believe that without a dedicated vendor, they’ll be left to fend for themselves if issues arise. However, this fear is largely unfounded.

Limited Awareness

Small businesses in Japan often lack awareness about the variety and capabilities of FOSS solutions available. This knowledge gap prevents them from exploring potentially cost-effective and efficient alternatives to proprietary software.

Cost-Effective Solutions

FOSS can provide small businesses with powerful tools at little to no cost, allowing them to allocate resources to other critical areas of their operations.

Customization and Flexibility

Open source software offers the flexibility to modify and adapt solutions to specific business needs, a feature particularly valuable for small businesses with unique requirements.

Community Support

Contrary to the misconception about lack of support, FOSS often comes with robust community backing. The Open Source Summit Japan, for instance, connects thousands of developers and industry leaders, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of support and innovation.

Government Initiatives

The Japanese government has recognized the potential of FOSS. The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) has been actively promoting its use and has even published case studies on FOSS utilization and security management methods.

As Japan continues its digital transformation journey, small businesses have a unique opportunity to leverage FOSS to enhance their competitiveness and efficiency. By addressing misconceptions and increasing awareness, Japan can unlock the full potential of FOSS in its small business sector.

To achieve this, we need to focuse on

• Education and awareness campaigns
• Showcasing successful FOSS implementations in small businesses
• Providing resources and guidance for FOSS adoption
• Encouraging participation in open source communities

By embracing FOSS, small businesses in Japan can not only reduce costs but also contribute to and benefit from a global community of innovation. It’s time for Japan’s small business sector to overcome its hesitations and explore the vast possibilities that Free and Open Source Software has to offer.

Sep 02 2024 - Japanese Businesses Are You Wasting Money on Unused Subscription Services?

Often small businesses find themselves subscribing to numerous software services, each promising to streamline operations and boost productivity. However, this approach can lead to unexpected financial drain and inefficiency. Let’s explore how embracing Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) can help small businesses here in Japan regain control over their tech spending and optimize their operations. The Subscription Trap

Many small businesses fall into the “subscription trap.” They sign up for comprehensive software suites that offer a wide array of tools, many of which may never be used. Even worse, some of these tools might duplicate functionalities already provided by other subscriptions. This redundancy not only wastes money but can also lead to confusion and decreased productivity as employees juggle multiple platforms The FOSS Advantage

By considering Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) alternatives, small businesses can:

Gain Clarity: FOSS helps businesses clearly see which tools they actually need and use regularly. This is really inherent since FOSS does require accountability when it is used. Reduce Costs: Many FOSS options are free or significantly less expensive than their proprietary counterparts. Mostly because no subscription cost, but it forces a organization to be aware of their resource usage. Avoid Vendor Lock-in: FOSS allows businesses to easily switch between solutions without losing data or disrupting workflows. Customize Solutions: Many FOSS tools can be tailored to fit specific business needs.

Realizing Hidden Costs

When small businesses start exploring FOSS alternatives, they often uncover surprising insights about their current tech stack:

Unused Features: They realize they’re paying for advanced features they never use. Why would an organization give hard earned money a way for something that is not even being used. that is a shocker moment. Duplicate Services: They discover multiple subscriptions with overlapping functionalities. Especially in Conferencing and chat tools. Hidden Fees: They uncover additional costs for storage, users, or support that weren’t initially apparent.

Taking Control with FOSS

By adopting FOSS solutions, small businesses can:

Pick and Choose: Select only the tools they need, avoiding bloated software suites. Scale Gradually: Add features and capabilities as the business grows, rather than paying for everything upfront. Increase Flexibility: Easily integrate different tools to create a customized workflow.

The Bottom Line

While subscription services can offer convenience, they often come at a hidden cost that can add up over time. By giving FOSS a chance, small businesses can gain a clearer picture of their actual software needs and usage. This insight not only helps cut unnecessary expenses but also empowers businesses to create a more efficient, tailored tech ecosystem. In today’s competitive landscape, every yen counts. Small businesses should break free from the subscription trap and explore the world of FOSS. mintarc will be here to help you.

Jul 16 2024 - The lack of knowing about FOSS

I’ve noticed a concerning trend: many domestic Japanese companies, especially those outside the tech sector, are unaware of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) and its potential benefits. Let’s change that!

Here are some strategies to promote FOSS adoption in non-tech Japanese businesses:

1. Educational outreach: Organize seminars and workshops tailored for non-tech companies.
2. Develop case studies: Showcase real-world FOSS success stories in Japanese businesses.
3. Partner with industry associations: Collaborate to reach a wider audience.
4. Offer free consultations: Help companies identify FOSS opportunities.
5. Highlight cost-effectiveness: Emphasize potential savings, especially for SMEs.
6. Address security concerns: Dispel myths about open-source security.
7. Showcase ease of use: Demonstrate user-friendly FOSS alternatives.
8. Localization efforts: Ensure FOSS solutions are Japan-ready.
9. Government advocacy: Engage with policymakers to promote FOSS adoption.
10. Create a FOSS resource center: Establish a hub for information and support.
11. Collaborate with universities: Integrate FOSS education into non-tech curricula.

It’s time we bridge this knowledge gap and unlock the potential of FOSS for Japanese businesses. Let’s start a conversation about how we can make this happen!

Jun 10 2024 - Why Free & Open Source Software Matters

Building, tools matter. But what if those tools were freely available, constantly evolving, and built on collaboration? That’s the power of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS).

FOSS isn’t just about saving costs (although that’s a fantastic perk! 😉 ). It’s a philosophy that fosters: Rapid Innovation that anyone can contribute and improve the code, leading to faster development cycles and cutting-edge solutions.

Transparency and Trust, Open source code allows anyone to see how the software works, building trust and security.

Collaboration, global community of developers working together to solve problems and push boundaries.

Think about the building blocks of the digital world

The web browser you’re using likely relies on FOSS projects like Linux and Apache.

The code powering countless websites and apps might have roots in open-source frameworks.

Even the software developers use to build these amazing things often incorporates FOSS tools.

FOSS isn’t just for giants; it’s for businesses of all sizes. It empowers you to - Customize and adapt, tailor FOSS solutions to your specific needs without vendor lock-in.

Empower your team and gives developers the freedom to contribute to the open-source ecosystem and benefit from the collective knowledge.

Be a part of something bigger and contribute to the future of technology and give back to the community that helps you build.

At Mintarc, we’re passionate about FOSS because we believe in building a better, more collaborative future for technology. Are you ready to unlock the power of FOSS for your business?

May 26 2024 - Empowering Data Ownership

In today’s digital age, data is the new gold. But who truly owns this precious asset? Too often, it’s locked away in corporate silos, inaccessible and controlled by a few large entities.

This is where open source shines. By embracing open-source solutions, individuals and organizations gain the freedom to Own Your Data: No more dependency on corporate giants. Open-source tools allow you to store, manage, and control your data as you see fit.

Customize and Innovate: Tailor solutions to meet your specific needs, without waiting for proprietary vendors to catch up.

Build Community: Join a global network of contributors who are committed to transparency, security, and collaboration.

Open source isn’t just a trend; it’s a movement towards a more open, equitable digital future. Let’s break free from centralized data silos and take ownership of our data journey.

Apr 10 2024 - FOSS What it Can Do For Your Organization

In today’s tech landscape, Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) is emerging as a transformative solution for organizations seeking cost-effective, flexible, and sustainable software solutions. Here’s why your organization should consider making the switch:

Cost Savings and Flexibility: FOSS eliminates licensing fees, freeing up resources for other priorities. It offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing organizations to customize software to fit their exact needs without being locked into rigid vendor contracts.

Community Support and Security: Join a thriving community of developers and users who offer assistance, share knowledge, and drive innovation. Benefit from transparent code that undergoes rigorous peer review, ensuring robust security practices and long-term reliability.

Independence from Vendors: Break free from vendor lock-in and take control of your technology stack. FOSS gives you the autonomy to make decisions that align with your organization’s goals, without being at the mercy of proprietary software providers.

Long-Term Sustainability: Invest in software with staying power. FOSS projects tend to have longer lifecycles and enjoy continuous support and development from a dedicated community.

Values Alignment: Embrace the ethos of collaboration, transparency, and innovation. Choosing FOSS not only makes good business sense but also reflects a commitment to open principles and shared values.

Ready to make the switch? Mintarc can help. With their expertise and guidance, transitioning to FOSS has never been smoother. Say hello to a more cost-effective, flexible, and sustainable future with Free and Open Source Software.

Mar 22 2024 - Have you heard of CryptPad

Have you ever heard of CryptPad? It is an open-source online collaborative document platform that has user privacy and security. It lets users create and collaborate on documents, spreadsheets, presentations, in real-time, similar to Google Docs or Microsoft Office Online. With that said, what sets CryptPad apart is its focus on encryption and privacy.

Features of CryptPad include:

End-to-End Encryption: All data stored and transmitted through CryptPad is encrypted on the client-side before it is sent to the server. That means even the platform’s operators cannot access the content of users’ documents.

Privacy: CryptPad is designed to minimize the collection of user data. It does not require users to create accounts or provide personal information to use the service, enhancing privacy.

Collaboration: Multiple users can collaborate on the a document at the same time, with changes being synced in real-time. Each user is assigned a unique encryption key, allowing for secure collaboration.

Document Types: CryptPad supports a variety of document types, including text documents, spreadsheets, presentations, kanban boards.

Customization: Users can customize their documents with various formatting options, embed images and videos, and utilize other features commonly found in standard office suites.

And best of all you can host your own CryptPad server on premise or in the cloud

If you get a chance go check them out: https://cryptpad.org/

Mar 09 2024 - Here’s how FOSS can transform your data engineering endeavors

Cost-Efficiency: FOSS eliminates hefty licensing fees, making it an economical choice for organizations. With tools like Apache Hadoop and Apache Spark, you can harness the power of big data processing without breaking the bank.

Flexibility and Customization: FOSS provides the flexibility to tailor solutions to your specific needs. Tools like Apache Airflow and Talend Open Studio empower data engineers to design workflows and integrate diverse data sources seamlessly.

Collaborative Development: FOSS thrives on collaboration, benefiting from a global community of developers constantly enhancing and refining the software. This collaborative spirit ensures continuous improvement, security patches, and timely updates.

Interoperability: FOSS tools are designed to work seamlessly with one another, promoting interoperability. This interoperable nature allows data engineers to create comprehensive data pipelines by combining various tools that best suit their requirements.

Community Support and Documentation: The vibrant FOSS community offers a wealth of support through forums, documentation, and tutorials. This communal knowledge-sharing ensures that users can easily troubleshoot issues and stay updated on the latest features.

Scalability: FOSS tools are built to scale horizontally, accommodating growing data volumes effortlessly. Whether dealing with terabytes or petabytes of data, FOSS solutions like Apache Kafka and Apache Flink are up to the task.

Feb 14 2024 - Digital Transition with FOSS for Seamless Business Processes

In the rapidly evolving landscape of digital transformation, businesses are seeking innovative solutions to streamline their operations and enhance productivity. One powerful approach gaining traction is the adoption of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) as a compelling alternative to traditional proprietary tools. Let’s explore how embracing FOSS can revolutionize your company’s digital processes, focusing on office suites, online meeting conferencing, and chat tools.

Office Suites: Liberating Your Documents

Say goodbye to expensive licensing fees and proprietary constraints with FOSS office suites like LibreOffice, Cryptpad, Onlyoffice and OpenOffice toe name a few . These feature-rich alternatives provide compatibility with popular formats, ensuring seamless collaboration without the burden of vendor lock-ins. Whether it’s word processing, spreadsheet analysis, or creating visually appealing presentations, FOSS office suites empower your team with versatile tools, fostering a collaborative and efficient work environment.

Online Meeting Conferencing

Virtual meetings have become the norm in today’s globalized world, and FOSS solutions like Jitsi and BigBlueButton offer feature-packed alternatives to proprietary platforms. These tools provide secure and reliable video conferencing, enabling teams to connect effortlessly, share ideas, and collaborate in real-time. Experience high-quality video and audio without compromising on privacy, all while reducing costs associated with subscription-based services.

Unifying Communication Channels with the matrix platform

Communication lies at the heart of any successful organization, and Matrix chat platforms like Element are redefining how teams interact. Embrace decentralization and end-to-end encryption to ensure secure conversations. Matrix chat integrates seamlessly with other collaboration tools, providing a unified platform for communication, file sharing, and project updates. Ditch the limitations of closed ecosystems and embrace the flexibility of FOSS to enhance team connectivity.

Benefits of FOSS Adoption

• Cost-Effective:
  • FOSS eliminates licensing fees, reducing the financial burden on your organization.
• Customization:
  • Tailor software to meet your specific business needs, enhancing overall efficiency.
• Community Support:
  • Join a thriving community of developers and users for ongoing support, updates, and enhancements.
• Security:
  • Open source software is subject to constant scrutiny, making it inherently more secure and transparent.
• Flexibility:
  • Enjoy the freedom to modify, redistribute, and adapt the software to suit your evolving business requirements.

The era of digital transformation beckons, and FOSS stands as a beacon of innovation for businesses seeking cost-effective, secure, and customization solutions. By embracing FOSS for office suites, online meeting conferencing, and chat, companies can break free from the constraints of proprietary software and forge a path towards a more collaborative and efficient future. Make the switch today and join the ranks of businesses revolutionizing their digital landscape with the power of Free and Open Source Software.

Jan 19 2024 - Introducing MintArc

Nurturing Open Source Advocacy and Innovation

Welcome to the inaugural blog post of mintarc, where passion meets purpose, and innovation thrives in the realm of open source advocacy. We’re excited to embark on this journey with you as we introduce mintarc—an open-source advocacy consulting company dedicated to fostering collaboration, innovation, and, empowerment within the vast landscape of open source.

Who We Are:

At MintArc, we are more than just a consultancy; we are a community of advocates, enthusiasts, and professionals who believe in the trans-formative power of open source. Founded on the principles of transparency, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing, mintarc is committed to making a meaningful impact on the open-source ecosystem.

Our Passion for Open Source:

Open source is not just a technology model for us; it’s a philosophy that fuels our endeavors. We are driven by the belief that access to knowledge, collaboration, and innovation should be unrestricted. In a world where proprietary barriers often hinder progress, we envision a future where open source serves as the catalyst for positive change, bringing communities together to solve complex challenges.

What Sets Us Apart:

mintarc stands out not only for its technical expertise but also for its unwavering commitment to advocacy. We understand that open source is more than just code—it’s about building inclusive communities, fostering diversity, and creating opportunities for everyone to contribute and thrive. Our team is dedicated to guiding organizations through the intricacies of open source, ensuring that they not only adopt but also embrace the ethos that drives innovation.

Our Services:

• Consulting: We provide tailored open-source strategies to align with your organizational goals, whether you are a startup, enterprise, or non-profit.
• Training and Workshops: Empower your team with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the open-source landscape confidently.
• Community Building: Establish and nurture vibrant open-source communities to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Join Us on This Journey:

As we embark on this exciting venture, we invite you to join us in championing the principles of open source. Follow our blog for insights, case studies, and the latest trends in the world of open source. Together, let’s build a future where innovation knows no bounds, and where the collective power of collaboration propels us toward new horizons.

Thank you for being part of the mintarc community. Stay tuned for more updates, stories, and adventures in open source advocacy!

Cheers to a future of limitless possibilities!

The mintarc Team