I conducted dozens of software evaluation and procurement rounds for a ${BIGCORP} One of the factors that made FOSS much more promotable was a sticker-price fo

I conducted dozens of software evaluation and procurement rounds for a ${BIGCORP} One of the factors that made FOSS much more promotable was a sticker-price for acquisition and / or support. The actual amount didn't matter, psychologically though it needed to show that it had 'worth'. Ifnitnwas free, the business was worried thatvit was just someone's weekend hack. If it cost $5 per user then it was great value. Not once did anyone raise the free-rider problem when we paid for FOSS. Frankly businesses are so focused on getting stuff done internally that the fact that someone else might indirectly benefit is irrelevant.