There are basically 3 models for getting web applications built:

• Proprietary platform
• Custom code
• Open Source
  

Trying to build your own Drupal site, but not sure it's ready for production? Have us run your site through our quality checklist. We'll clear out the clutter in your modules, files, and views. We'll do the basics to make sure you're following best SEO practices, all the security patches are applied, and all the basic performance-enhancing features are set up correctly. And we'll make recommendations on how to make your site better going forward.

[Originally published on the Open Source Small Business blog, in January 2008.]

I’ve seen a lot of code in various languages. As a technical writer, I used to write documentation for programmers teaching them how to use a particular interface or system. I’ve been involved with traditional software development projects at large software companies and startups. And I’ve done my share of actual programming of web applications.

LAMP is a general term for a development platform, on top of which developers create custom web applications. The two other major established platforms for web development are Java and Microsoft's .NET.

The acronym LAMP refers to the parts of the platform:

Don't understand how to make open source work for you? Give us a call, we can help.

John Locke, our founder and senior consultant, has provided open source consulting to Microsoft, Red Hat, and several smaller startups. He has analyzed and reviewed claims in white papers, written competitive briefs, advised clients on how best to turn a proprietary software program into a thriving open source project, and more.

What is an Expert System?

Whatis.com defines an expert system as follows: