How to save big on your business expenses by choosing open-source software alternatives.

1. Open Source is the Future
www.andreahowson.com

2. I spend a lot of time researching the alternative side to everything
in life. I have tested loads of software, ranging from the
expensive programs to their open-source alternatives. Open-
source software is a way of licensing making it free for anyone to
use. With my recommendations, I have helped businesses save
thousands of dollars. It takes some adjusting but it is worth the
hassle in the long run. Read on to learn more!

3. This Slideshare follows up on my last article: Cost-Analysis of a
Virtual Assistant. Along with saving $65-$70,000 by contracting
with a VA instead of hiring a FT employee, I am going to show
you how to save money on other business expenses.

4. Majority Purchase Open-Source Alternatives
Software Cost Software Cost
GIMP
Free
$700+ (My favourite tool!)
Photoshop (Upgrade fees every Photoshop’s Online
Free
couple years) Editor
Pixlr (web-based) Free

5. Majority Purchase Open-Source Alternatives
Software Cost Software Cost
Open Office Free
$140+
Microsoft Office (Upgrade fees every Google Docs
couple years) (create & share docs Free
online)

6. Majority Purchase Open-Source Alternatives
Software Cost Software Cost
$80+
QuickBooks (Upgrade fees every Gnu Cash Free
couple years)
$100+
Sage 50
(Upgrade fees every Turbo Cash Free
Accounting
couple years)

7. Majority Purchase Open-Source Alternatives
Action Cost Program Cost
PDF files Free
USB Memory
Printing $0.15+ per page Free
Sticks
Emailing Free
$1+ per local page, HelloFax Free
Faxing
$2+ per LD page (50 per month) (can upgrade to +50)
Whether or not you are involved in the “go green” movement, think before you print. Is
it really necessary to print that 25-page rough draft? With updated PDF software, you
can highlight and make notes on a document, save your work and share with anyone.

8. Majority Purchase Open-Source Alternatives
System Cost System Cost
$120+ Linux/Ubuntu* Free
Windows (Upgrade fees every *Linux bonus: no antivirus needed, it is a
couple years) secure operating system
I do not have Mac on this list because it is illegal to run Mac OS on a
PC. Apple’s software is only intended for apple products.

9. Majority Purchase Open-Source Alternatives
Software Cost Software Cost
$55+ CCleaner
Norton Antivirus (Upgrade fees every Spybot Free
year) Avira*
$40+ *Above programs can all be scheduled
McAfee Protection (Upgrade fees every automatically to run/scan/fix your
year) computer.

10. Majority Purchase Open-Source Alternatives
Provider Plans Cost Software Cost
Skype computer to computer Free
Skype local & LD unlimited
$20 - $500 $30
Phone Plans in North America (One year)
(per month)
NetTALK VOIP device $40
Magic Jack $40+
VOIP (Voice over internet protocol) phone devices connect to your computer or router
and have all the same features as your phone company. It runs solely over the internet.
MagicJack is the same as VOIP but has an extra plug for your landline so you can turn
your landline into a cheap unlimited calling system. If you go through your computer
for calls, invest in a solid headset with a microphone.
Have a look at Jason Belsey’s blog here for some great ideas for VOIP calling.

11. Software expenses: One year Alternative software: One year
Photoshop $700 GIMP Free
Microsoft Office $140 Open Office Free
Quickbooks $80 GnuCash Free
Faxing $360 ($30/mth) HelloFax Free
Printing $720 ($60/mth) Email/USB/PDF Free
Windows OS $120 Linux OS Free
Norton Antivirus $55 CCleaner, Spybot, Avira Free
Phone Plan $1800 ($150/mth) VOIP Phone Plan $40
Internet Plan $1200 ($100/mth) Internet Plan $1200
TOTAL $5175 TOTAL $1240
Nearly $4000 savings ..What would you do with this much extra money?

12. • If you search Google for “open-source alternatives” for your
favourite program, you will find endless options. I hope you
will try out some of my recommendations if you haven’t
already.
• Most of the program alternatives I mentioned have free apps
that you can get on your smartphones and tablets as well.
Contact me if you have any questions or need any advice :)
Happy Saving!
www.andreahowson.com