The Open Source/Free Software movement has clearly demonstrated that the Internet facilitates the production of high-quality resources outside of the conventional hierarchical firm and without the usual mechanisms to control "ownership". A new paradigm -- based on open, free access and collaboration -- has been established that is not only efficient but also socially progressive.
Based on this success, two questions have become more prevalent recently. First, to what degree can this paradigm be applied to areas beyond the writing of software code? Second, what might be forms of social organization that realize the progressive potential in a sustainable way, recognizing the value of the labour put into collaboration while enhancing free flows of information?
I will discuss the first question through the example of "Open Source Intelligence" and the second with respect to Openflows. Open Source Intelligence emerges from the practice of collaborative knowledge generation and information filtering among a group of people who have varied experience and backgrounds, and who each contributes to the group's resource base. From this process emerges a multi-perspective view and an ongoing learning effort. Openflows (http://www.openflows.org) is a cluster of initiatives to fosters networks -- people who share interests, needs, or goals -- that engage in the process of Open Source Intelligence. Openflows includes news sites, email lists, a platform for members’ projects, and for the public, publications on the relationships between culture and technology.
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