Open Source
Alternative Solutions for Research, Administration, and Digital Processes
Open Source solutions are playing an increasingly important role in higher education, research institutions, and the public sector. They enable flexible system architectures, reduce dependencies on individual software vendors, and often provide cost-effective alternatives to commercial software solutions.
AT-CRIS supports higher education institutions, research institutions, and public sector organizations in the selection, implementation, and technical support of Open Source solutions. We combine technical expertise with a deep understanding of the specific requirements of research, administration, and digital processes.
Consulting & Selection
Open Source is not all the same. Different licensing models define how software may be used, modified, and further developed.
We support our clients in selecting the most suitable Open Source solution and evaluate, in particular:
- Licensing models and legal requirements
- Up-to-date technology stack
- Technical architecture and integration capabilities
- Long-term maintainability and continuous developmen
- Compatibility with existing system landscapes
- Activity and sustainability of the supporting community
This ensures that an Open Source solution not only meets technical requirements but can also be operated and continuously developed successfully over the long term.
Implementation
Open Source solutions deliver their full value when they are seamlessly integrated into existing system landscapes and tailored to an organization’s specific requirements.
We support our clients with:
- Installation and technical setup
- Integration into existing system landscapes through interface customization and development
- Tailored enhancements to ensure the software truly becomes a solution
- Customization of user interfaces and features
Throughout the implementation, we ensure that Open Source solutions can be operated reliably and continuously developed to meet future requirements.
Operations & Development
Some Open Source solutions do not follow fixed vendor release cycles or offer dedicated support structures. As a result, our customers often require continuous technical expertise to operate and further develop their solutions. Rather than relying on traditional support models, this work is typically delivered on a project basis.
We support our clients with:
- Maintenance and operation of Open Source solutions
- Adaptations for system updates and new software versions
- Development of additional features
- Analysis and resolution of technical issues
This enables our clients to benefit from Open Source solutions without the need to build and maintain extensive in-house development capabilities.
Practical Example: Making Research Information Publicly Available
Many of our clients manage research information in Research Information Systems (RES). However, the presentation of research activities and results often does not fully meet their requirements for a modern public-facing website.
To address this challenge, we have developed an alternative solution based on the Open Source platform VIVO. The solution is fully aligned with each client’s corporate design, ensuring a seamless integration into their existing web presence. Integration with the RES and other backend systems, as well as the implementation of project-specific enhancements, is an integral part of our approach.
We have successfully implemented this solution for clients using different RES platforms, both nationally and internationally.
