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Open Core Model

"Open Core" is a business model where the core functionality of the software is free (Open Source), but critical "Enterprise" features (SSO, Audit Logs, High Availability) are proprietary and locked behind a paid license.

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🛡️ RISK BADGE: 🏢 BUSINESS MODEL

Executive Summary: What is it?

"Open Core" is a business model where the core functionality of the software is free (Open Source), but critical "Enterprise" features (SSO, Audit Logs, High Availability) are proprietary and locked behind a paid license.

CFO / Business Impact: What does it cost/risk?

The "Upsell" Ceiling. It is not a trap, but it is a constraint. You can use the software for free up to a certain scale. Once you grow large enough to need compliance features, you will have to pay. Budget accordingly.

Technical Reality: How does it work?

Often leads to two versions of the software: a "Community Edition" (CE) and an "Enterprise Edition" (EE). Be aware that CE versions might receive security patches slower than EE versions.

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