Mintarc Blog

Japanese

Jan 29 2024 - mintarcブログへようこそ！

こちらは日本語のコーナーです。新着情報や役立つ情報をお伝えするスペースです。テクノロジーやビジ ネスの最新情報や洞察をお楽しみください。国内外のビジネスやテクノロジーに関する興味深い話題をお 届けしますので、ぜひご期待ください！

Feb 02 2024 - mintarc

皆さん、こんにちは！mintarc合同会社です。この度、このブログを通じて皆さんと直接コミュニケーショ ンをとれることをとても嬉しく思います。

mintarc合同会社は、オープンソースソフトウェア（FOSS）を中心に据えたデジタルトランスフォーメー ション（DX）コンサルティングを提供しています。私たちのビジョンは、技術の進化とイノベーションを 通じて、クライアントのビジネスを次のレベルに導くことです。

私たちの信念

私たちは、オープンソースの価値を信じています。透明性、柔軟性、セキュリティの面で優れたオープンソ ースソフトウェアは、ビジネスにおいて競争力を向上させる優れたツールです。私たちはこれらの価値を 最大限に引き出し、クライアントに革新的なソリューションを提供します。

DXの新たな局面

デジタルトランスフォーメーションは、今や企業が生き残り、繁栄するために不可欠な要素となりました。 私たちは、オープンソースを中心に据え、カスタマイズ可能で柔軟なソリューションを提供することで、 クライアントが変化する市場に適応し、成長するお手伝いを致します。

このブログの目的

このブログでは、私たちの最新のプロジェクト、テクノロジートレンド、お役立ち情報などを共有してい きます。また、皆さんからのフィードバックや質問を歓迎し、共に成長していくことを願っています。

これからも、私たちmintarc合同会社はオープンソースと共に歩み、お客様とともに新たな可能性を追求 していきます。今後ともよろしくお願いいたします。

client service representative マギー良

mintarc合同会社

Feb 20 2024 - FOSSとは？ 自由な未来を築くオープンソースソフトウェア

FOSSとは？ 自由な未来を築くオープンソースソフトウェア

皆さん、こんにちは。mintarcのclient service representative マギー良です。今回は、 前回に引き続き、弊社が重要視しているテーマである「FOSS（Free and Open Source Software）」 に焦点を当て、その重要性やメリットについてお話ししたいと思います。

FOSSとは？ FOSSは、ソフトウェアの開発および利用において、自由とオープンネスを追求する哲学と手法を指します。 これは、ソフトウェアのソースコードが一般に公開され、ユーザーが自由にそのソフトウェアを使用し、 変更し、再配布することができるという原則に基づいています。（つまりは、 サブスクや購入せずにプロバージョンが使えると言うこと！）この考え方は、 多くの利点をもたらしています。

FOSSの重要性 透明性と信頼性： FOSSはそのソースコードが公開されているため、 利用者はソフトウェアがどのように機能しているかを透明に確認できます。これにより、 ソフトウェアの信頼性が向上し、セキュリティ上のリスクが低減します。 柔軟性とカスタマイズ： FOSSを利用することで、企業はソフトウェアを自社のニーズに合わせてカスタマイズできます。 これにより、ビジネスプロセスの最適化や効率の向上が可能になります。 コミュニティの力： FOSSプロジェクトは通常、活発なコミュニティによってサポートされています。 ユーザーや開発者が協力し合い、問題解決や新機能の開発に貢献することで、 ソフトウェアは進化し続けます。 FOSSの未来への期待 FOSSは今後ますます重要性を増していくでしょう。その自由でオープンな特性が、 イノベーションの促進やグローバルな協力を可能にし、 新たなビジネスモデルやテクノロジーの発展を後押しします。

弊社もFOSSを活用し、お客様に最高のサービスを提供してまいります。次回以降も、 FOSSに関するトピックや実践例についてお伝えしていきますので、どうぞお楽しみに。

それでは、良い一日をお過ごしください。また次回お会いしましょう。

client service representative マギー良

Mar 28 2024 - 日本のDX化におけるFOSSの重要性

日本のDX化におけるFOSSの重要性

皆さん、こんにちは。mintarcのclient service representative マギー良です。今回は、FOSSがどのようにして、日本の企業の皆様のDX化を助けることができるかを話していきたいと思います。日本のデジタルトランスフォーメーション（DX）は、経済や社会に革新をもたらす重要な取り組みです。この過程で、オープンソースソフトウェア（FOSS）は極めて重要な役割を果たしています。では、なぜFOSSが日本のDX化において重要なのでしょうか？

コスト効率性:

FOSSは無料で利用できるため、導入コストを削減できます。特に中小企業やスタートアップにとって、これは大きなメリットです。DXプロジェクトの費用対効果を高め、イノベーションを促進することが可能である。

柔軟性とカスタマイズ性:

FOSSはオープンソースであるため、自由にカスタマイズできます。日本の企業は、独自のニーズや業界の要件に合わせてシステムを調整する必要があります。FOSSを活用することで、柔軟性を維持しつつ、DXプロジェクトを効果的に実施できます。

イノベーションとアクセス:

FOSSは世界中の開発者コミュニティによって支えられています。日本の企業は、このコミュニティからの貢献や最新のテクノロジーにアクセスすることで、イノベーションを推進できます。また、FOSSを活用することで、独自の技術的競争力を高めることも可能になってくると思います。

セキュリティと信頼性:

多くのFOSSプロジェクトは、セキュリティや品質の面で高い評価を受けています。日本企業は、信頼性の高いシステムを構築するためにFOSSを活用することで、セキュリティリスクを最小限に抑えることができます。

社会的責任と持続可能性:

FOSSはコミュニティによって共同で開発されるため、社会的責任と持続可能性の観点からも重要です。日本企業がFOSSを活用することで、持続可能なテクノロジーの普及や地域コミュニティの支援に貢献できます。

まとめると、FOSSは日本のDX化において重要な役割になると思われます。コスト効率性、柔軟性、イノベーションの促進、セキュリティ、社会的責任など、多岐にわたるメリットがあります。日本の企業がFOSSを積極的に活用することで、より持続可能で競争力のあるデジタル化を実現できます。

Apr 11 2024 - ベンダーロックインの恐ろしさ：なぜ自由な選択が重要なのか

ベンダーロックインの恐ろしさ：なぜ自由な選択が重要なのか

皆さん、こんにちは。mintarcのclient service representative マギー良です。今回は、ベンダロックインの恐ろしさについて反していきたいと思います。ベンダーロックインとは、特定のベンダーやサービスプロバイダーに依存しすぎてしまい、他の選択肢を持つことが困難になる状況を指します。この状況に陥ると、サービス提供者の価格設定やサービス品質に不満があっても、移行や切り替えが難しく、困難を極めることになります。今回ここでは、ベンダーロックインの恐ろしさについて考えてみましょう。 １.自由な選択の重要性

ベンダーロックインが発生すると、利用者（企業）は自由な選択肢を失います。一度ベンダーに依存してしまうと、彼らの価格設定やサービス品質に不満があっても、容易に別のベンダーに移行することができません。結果として、サービス提供者は自由な競争がなくなり、価格競争が制限され、顧客満足度が低下します。 ２.長期的なコスト増加

ベンダーロックインは、長期的なコスト増加にもつながります。ベンダーに依存することで、価格上昇やサービス品質の低下に対応するために、利用者は追加の費用を負担することになります。また、ベンダーが提供するサービスや製品のライセンス料金が上昇すると、予算の不足や予期せぬ支出が発生する可能性があります。 3.技術的な制約

ベンダーロックインは、技術的な制約ももたらします。特定のベンダーの製品やサービスに固執することで、他の新しい技術や革新的なソリューションを採用する機会を逃すことがあります。これにより、企業は市場競争力を失い、将来的な成長の機会を逃す可能性があります。 解決策

最後にベンダーロックインの解決策を話していこうと思います。ベンダーロックインから逃れるための解決策の1つは、オープンソースソフトウェアや自由な選択を活用することです。オープンソースソフトウェアは、コミュニティによって開発され、誰もが自由に利用、変更、配布することができます。そのため、ベンダーロックインのリスクを軽減し、自由な選択肢を確保することが可能です。

ベンダーロックインは、ビジネスにとって深刻な問題です。日本のビジネスはその問題をしっかりと理解していくことがビジネスをイノベーションする上で重要になってきます。だからこそオープンソースソフトウェアや自由な選択肢を活用することで、この問題を克服することができることを理解し、自由な選択を実践し、ベンダーロックインの罠にはまらないようにすることで。長期的なコストをカットすることができます。 弊社もFOSSを活用し、お客様に最高のサービスを提供しております

それでは、良い一日をお過ごしください。また次回お会いしましょう。 ​​​​​​​client service representative マギー良

Apr 30 2024 - 「CryptPad: プライバシーとセキュリティを重視したオープンソースのオフィススイート」

「CryptPad: プライバシーとセキュリティを重視したオープンソースのオフィススイート」

皆さん、こんにちは。mintarcのclient service representative マギー良です,今回はFOSSの中でも私たちの会社でも利用しているオフィススイートCryptPadについてお話したいと思います。近年、プライバシーやセキュリティの重要性がますます高まっています。特に企業や組織にとって、機密情報や個人データの安全な取り扱いは不可欠です。そこで注目を集めているのが、Crypt Padというオープンソースのオフィススイートです。

CryptPadは、クラウドベースのドキュメント編集、スプレッドシート、プレゼンテーション、チャット、カレンダーなどの機能を提供するプラットフォームです。このプラットフォームの最大の特徴は、エンドツーエンドの暗号化がデフォルトで行われることです。つまり、ユーザーがデータを作成、編集、共有する際に、そのデータは常に暗号化された状態で保持されます。これにより、クラウド上でのデータの安全性が確保されます。

さらに、CryptPadはオープンソースであり、誰もがソースコードを検査し、セキュリティに関する懸念を解消することができます。この透明性により、ユーザーは自分たちのデータがどのように処理されているかを理解し、信頼することができます。

また、CryptPadはプライバシーにも焦点を当てており、ユーザーの個人情報を収集、追跡することなく、匿名での利用を可能にしています。これにより、ユーザーは安心してプラットフォームを利用し、機密情報を扱うことができます。

最後に、CryptPadは利用料金が発生せず、誰もが自由に利用することができます。これにより、中小企業や個人ユーザーも、高度なセキュリティとプライバシーを持つオフィススイートを手軽に利用することができます。

まとめると、CryptPadはプライバシーとセキュリティを重視したオープンソースのオフィススイートとして、企業や組織にとって価値のあるツールです。データの安全性とプライバシー保護が重要視される現代において、CryptPadは優れた解決策となります。

それでは、良い一日をお過ごしください。また次回お会いしましょう。 ​​​​​​​client service representative マギー良

May 26 - 2024 FOSSを活用したDX戦略：コスト削減の秘策をご紹介！

皆様、こんにちは！私たちの会社では、FOSS（Free and Open Source Software）を駆使したDX戦略を採用し、驚くほどのコスト削減と効率化を実現しています。 FOSSは、高品質でセキュアなソフトウェアを無料で提供しており、ライセンス料や導入コストを大幅に削減することができます。その柔軟性とカスタマイズ性も魅力で、企業固有のニーズに合わせたDXソリューションを迅速に展開することができます。 私たちは、FOSSがビジネスにもたらす変革をご紹介します。他の企業もFOSSのポテンシャルを見逃さず、競争力を強化しましょう！興味のある方はぜひご一読ください。

June 10 -2024 FOSSとは let us tell you about FOSS？

FOSSは、ソフトウェアの開発および利用において、自由とオープンネスを追求する哲学と手法を指します。これは、ソフトウェアのソースコードが一般に公開され、ユーザーが自由にそのソフトウェアを使用し、変更し、再配布することができるという原則に基づいています。（つまりは、サブスクや購入せずにプロバージョンが使えると言うこと！）この考え方は、多くの利点をもたらしています。

FOSSの重要性 透明性と信頼性： FOSSはそのソースコードが公開されているため、利用者はソフトウェアがどのように機能しているかを透明に確認できます。これにより、ソフトウェアの信頼性が向上し、セキュリティ上のリスクが低減します。 柔軟性とカスタマイズ： FOSSを利用することで、企業はソフトウェアを自社のニーズに合わせてカスタマイズできます。これにより、ビジネスプロセスの最適化や効率の向上が可能になります。 コミュニティの力： FOSSプロジェクトは通常、活発なコミュニティによってサポートされています。ユーザーや開発者が協力し合い、問題解決や新機能の開発に貢献することで、ソフトウェアは進化し続けます。 FOSSの未来への期待 FOSSは今後ますます重要性を増していくでしょう。その自由でオープンな特性が、イノベーションの促進やグローバルな協力を可能にし、新たなビジネスモデルやテクノロジーの発展を後押しします。

弊社もFOSSを活用し、お客様に最高のサービスを提供してまいります。次回以降も、FOSSに関するトピックや実践例についてお伝えしていきますので、どうぞお楽しみに。

それでは、良い一日をお過ごしください。また次回お会いしましょう。

Feb 4 2025 -Jitsi meetについて知ろう！

リモートワークやオンライン授業が増える中、Web会議システムの重要性が高まっています。その中で注目を集めているのが、オープンソースのWeb会議システム「Jitsi Meet」です。この記事では、Jitsi Meetの基本情報や特徴を初心者向けにわかりやすく解説します。

Jitsi Meetとは？

Jitsi Meetは、無料で利用できるオープンソースのWeb会議システムです。専用アプリやアカウント登録が不要で、ブラウザから簡単に会議を始められる手軽さが魅力です。また、自社サーバーにインストールして運用することで、セキュリティやプライバシー管理を強化できます。

Jitsi Meetの主な特徴

1. 無料で利用可能 *使用時間や参加人数に制限なし。

2. アカウント登録不要 *会議リンクを共有するだけで参加可能。

3. 専用アプリ不要 *Webブラウザだけで会議を開始・参加できます。

4. 高機能 *画面共有、録画機能、チャット機能など、商用システムに劣らない豊富な機能を搭載。

5. カスタマイズ可能

       *オープンソースなので、自社ブランドに合わせたUI変更や機能追加が可能。

6. セキュリティ重視 *自社サーバー運用でデータ管理を完全にコントロールできます。

Jitsi Meetの使い方

会議を開始する • Jitsi MeetがインストールされたサーバーのURLにアクセス。

• 会議名を入力して「ミーティングを開始」をクリックするだけ。

会議に参加する

• 共有されたURLをクリックし、ブラウザからアクセス。

• 初回のみマイクとカメラのアクセス許可を設定すればOK。

Jitsi Meetはこんな人におすすめ！

   •	コスト削減したい企業や個人。

• セキュリティ重視で自社運用を検討している方。

• 手軽にWeb会議を始めたい初心者。

• カスタマイズ可能なシステムを求める開発者。

まとめ

Jitsi Meetは、無料で使えるだけでなく、高い柔軟性とセキュリティ性が魅力です。Zoomなどの商用サービスと比較しても遜色ない機能が備わっており、自社運用によるコスト削減も可能です。特に初めてWeb会議システムを導入する方には、手軽さと自由度の高さからおすすめできる選択肢と言えます。

本日も、ブログを見て頂きありがとうございました！ また、次回もお楽しみに！

English

Jan 8 2025 - Here is kind of a "Beginner's Guide"

Today I want to help small businesses understand [matrix] - for mintarc this is our go to communication tool, that we use, for our team members. Nexcloud Talk is a really god tool as well, but [matrix] really hits the sweet spot for us.

[matrix] is an open-source communication protocol designed for real-time messaging. It's a versatile platform that offers instant messaging, group chats, file sharing, and voice and video calls. Like other similar tools it has built-in end-to-end encryption, ensuring that conversations remain private and secure.

One way to think of the [matrix] protocol is like email - you need an email client (like Proton or Thunderbird) to read and send messages. So with [matrix] you use a "matrix client" to read and send messages.

A list of clients can be found here:

• https://matrix.org/ecosystem/clients/

Decentralized

[matrix] is decentralized - it means that the communication system operates without a central point of control or authority. This decentralization has several important implications:

1. No single point of failure: Unlike centralized systems, there's no single server or company controlling all communications
2. Data sovereignty: Users and organizations can host their own Matrix servers (called homeservers), giving them full control and ownership over their data
3. Federation: [matrix] servers can communicate with each other, allowing users on different servers to interact seamlessly
4. Resilience: If one server goes offline, other servers in the network continue to function, maintaining communication for their users
5. Scalability: The decentralized nature allows [matrix] to power large-scale deployments, even at national or global levels
6. Interoperability:[matrix] can connect with other communication systems, enhancing its versatility
7. Privacy and security: Decentralization, combined with end-to-end encryption, provides a robust approach to securing communications
8. Freedom of choice: Users can choose or switch between different [matrix] servers or even set up their own, without losing access to the broader [matrix] network

Getting Started with Matrix

• Choosing Your Matrix Home: To begin, you'll need to select a client application. Element is a popular and user-friendly option available on web browsers, desktops, and mobile devices. It's like choosing your favorite messaging app, but with more flexibility. many of our team members use Element , I personally use SchildiChat on my Android and Cinny for the desktop.

• Setting Up Shop: Next, you'll need to decide on a homeserver. Think of this as your [matrix] address. You can use a public homeserver like matrix.org, or for more control, set up your own. (We run our own server here at mintarc) It's similar to choosing between a free email service or hosting your own email server.

• Creating Your Matrix Identity: Once you've chosen your homeserver, you'll create an account using your selected [matrix] client. This process is straightforward, much like signing up for any other online service.

• Locking Down Your Messages: [matrix] offers strong encryption, but it's important to set up secure backups for your encryption keys. This ensures you don't accidentally lock yourself out of your own messages. Think of it as creating a spare key for your digital conversations.

• Exploring Your New Communication Hub: Take some time to familiarize yourself with the features. Try sending messages, sharing files, and making voice or video calls.

Features for Growing Businesses

• Building Bridges: [matrix] can connect to other services like Slack or Telegram. In PeppermintOS they connect to Discord. This feature is called bridging, and it's like having a universal translator for different messaging platforms. Here is all the stuff [matrix] can bridge to: https://matrix.org/ecosystem/bridges/

• Making It Your Own: As your business grows, you might want to customize your Matrix server further. This could include hosting bots to automate tasks or integrating with other business tools. It's like adding extensions to your web browser to enhance its functionality.

Benefits for Your Small Business

• Control and Ownership: With [matrix], you have the option to host your own server. This means you're in charge of your data and communications, giving you a level of control that's rare with other messaging platforms.

• Cost-Effective Solution: If you choose to self-host [matrix], it can be more budget-friendly than paying for individual user licenses on commercial platforms. This can lead to significant savings, especially as your team grows.

• Plays Well with Others: [matrix] is designed to be interoperable. It can connect with other communication platforms, making it easier to stay in touch with clients or partners who might be using different systems.

• Fort Knox for Your Messages: The built-in end-to-end encryption is like a digital fortress for your business communications. It ensures that sensitive information stays between you and your intended recipients.

• Tailor-Made for You: Being open-source, You can customize it to fit your specific business needs, adding or modifying features as required.

Thoughts on your data

Especially in Japan, where the business environment is rapidly evolving in terms of data privacy awareness, it's crucial to carefully consider data protection and ownership before investing in centralized SaaS communication services. The Act on the Protection of Personal Information (APPI) now mandates stricter compliance for all businesses handling personal data

1. Your data is valuable, even if you don't realize it.
2. Protecting your information should be a top priority.
3. Ownership of your data can have long-term implications.

In closing

Adopting Matrix, your small business can enjoy a secure, flexible, and cost-effective communication solution. It offers greater control and customization compared to mainstream alternatives, allowing your communication system to grow and adapt with your business needs. You're not just choosing a communication platform – you're selecting a security-first approach that protects your business's most sensitive conversations and collaborative work. The platform's open-source architecture also allows for continuous security improvements and transparency, giving you greater control over your digital communication infrastructure.

Dec 15 2024 - Search Engines and Alternatives in FOSS

Have Japanese businesses thought about what kind of data is collected when their team members use popular search services, such as Google and Bing? Both collect various types of data when users interact with their search engines.

Search Query Data

Both search engines record the actual search terms and phrases users enter.

This allows them to:

• Improve search algorithms and results relevance
• Provide personalized search suggestions
• Target ads based on search intent

Location Data

• General location based on IP address
• More precise location if location services are enabled

Device and Browser Details

• Type of device (mobile, desktop, tablet)
• Operating system
• Browser used

Account Information

If signed in, additional data like email address and account preferences may be linked to searches.

Click-through Data

Both track which search results users click on and how long they spend on sites before returning to results.

Search History

A log of past searches is maintained, though retention policies differ:

• Google automatically deletes search history after 18 months for new accounts
• Bing keeps search history for 18 months unless manually deleted sooner

On-Site Activity

For users logged into associated services (e.g. Gmail, Outlook), activity across those platforms may be linked to search data.

Technical Data

• IP address
• Date and time of searches
• Unique identifiers stored in cookies

How Data is Used

This collected information serves several purposes:

• Personalizing search results and suggestions
• Improving search algorithms
• Targeting advertising
• Analyzing search trends and user behavior

Privacy Considerations

While both engines collect similar types of data, there are some differences in privacy approaches:

• Google offers options to turn off data collection for advertising
• Bing doesn't provide an option to disable personalized search or data collection
• Both allow users to view and delete their search history

What are the alternatives?

With FOSS there is always alternatives, :-) . In this case we can talk about SearXNG.

It is a free and open-source metasearch engine that aggregates search results from over 70 different search services, including Google and DuckDuckGo. It is designed to prioritize user privacy, ensuring that users are neither tracked nor profiled during their searches.

If businesses host their own, they are not relying on any third-party SaaS search services.

Key Features of SearXNG

SearXNG acts as an intermediary between users and search engines, offering several benefits:

• Privacy Protection: It doesn't store user data or search history, enhancing user privacy.
• Customization: Users can select which search engines to query and customize the interface.
• Diverse Results: By combining results from various sources, it provides a broader range of information.

Federated Search Approach Whart is Federation?:

• SearXNG doesn't maintain its own index of web pages.
• Instead, it sends user queries to multiple search engines and websites simultaneously.
• It then aggregates, ranks, and presents the combined results to the user.

Benefits of Federation:

• Comprehensive Results: By querying multiple sources, SearXNG offers a more complete set of search results.
• Reduced Bias: Aggregating from various engines helps mitigate the bias of any single search algorithm.
• Enhanced Privacy: The original search engines don't receive user information directly.

How It Works

1. Query Submission: A user enters a search query on the SearXNG interface.
2. Distributed Search: SearXNG forwards this query to multiple configured search engines and websites.
3. Result Collection: It gathers results from all these sources in real-time.
4. Aggregation and Ranking: The collected results are combined and ranked based on relevance.
5. Presentation: The final, aggregated results are displayed to the user.

Customization and Deployment

SearXNG can be self-hosted, allowing individuals or organizations to set up their own instance with customized settings, including:

• Selection of search engines to query
• Result ranking preferences
• User interface customization

If organizations understand the federated approach, they can appreciate how it offers a unique, privacy-focused search experience that combines results from multiple sources while protecting user data.

Why would a company want to host their own search engine?

1. Enhanced privacy: By hosting their own search engine, a company can ensure that employee search queries are not tracked or logged by third-party search providers. This protects sensitive company information and employee privacy.
2. Customization: SearXNG allows extensive customization of the search experience. A company could tailor the search engines used, adjust result rankings, and customize the interface to match their brand and needs.
3. Control over data: With their own instance, the company has full control over search data and can implement their own data retention and security policies.
4. Avoid censorship or filtering: Some countries or networks may restrict access to certain search engines. A self-hosted SearXNG instance can bypass these restrictions.
5. Integration with internal systems: The company could potentially integrate SearXNG with their intranet or other internal knowledge bases to provide unified search across all company resources.
6. Cost savings: For large organizations, hosting their own search solution could potentially be more cost-effective than paying for enterprise search services.
7. Compliance: Some industries have strict regulations about data handling. A self-hosted solution allows the company to ensure compliance with these regulations.
8. Reduced reliance on third parties: By hosting their own search engine, the company reduces dependency on external service providers.
9. Improved security: The company can implement their own security measures and have greater control over who has access to the search data.

Any data that is created by an organization or an individual has some kind of value. Be aware of the data that is created and if you can don’t give it away so easily.

Nov 25 2024 - Why do Japan SMEs not see value in FOSS

Small businesses in Japan often do not see the value in Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) due to several factors:

Lack of Awareness

Many small businesses in Japan are not aware of the variety and capabilities of FOSS solutions available. This knowledge gap prevents them from exploring these options, which could potentially streamline operations and cut costs.

Language and Cultural Barriers

Language barriers significantly impact the adoption of FOSS in Japan. Many FOSS projects are community-based and often organized in English, which can be a hurdle for Japanese businesses. Additionally, there is a cultural perception that open-source software is not backed by a company, which can lead to skepticism about its reliability

Work Culture

The demanding work culture in Japan, characterized by long hours and high pressure, leaves little time for employees to explore or contribute to FOSS projects. This lack of engagement with the FOSS community further limits awareness and adoption

Subscription Trap

Japanese small businesses often fall into the “subscription trap,” where they subscribe to multiple software services, leading to financial drain and inefficiency. FOSS could help mitigate these issues by offering cost-effective alternatives without subscription fees, but the awareness and understanding of these benefits are limited.

Those things cause other issues such as:

Financial Inefficiency

Small businesses often fall into a “subscription trap,” paying for multiple software services with overlapping functionalities. This leads to unnecessary expenses and financial drain, as companies pay for advanced features they never use or duplicate services. You see this everywhere in the business world in Japan.

Missed Opportunities

By not exploring FOSS alternatives, Japanese small businesses miss out on:

1. Cost savings from free or significantly less expensive software options #Increased flexibility and customization possibilities #The ability to scale gradually and add features as needed #Freedom from vendor lock-in

Reduced Competitiveness

The lack of FOSS adoption can hinder a company’s ability to streamline operations and boost productivity. This puts Japanese small businesses at a disadvantage compared to their counterparts in other countries who leverage FOSS to create more efficient, tailored tech ecosystems

Technological Stagnation

The limited awareness and adoption of FOSS solutions contribute to a slower pace of technological advancement within these businesses. This can result in reduced innovation and difficulty in keeping up with global technological trends

It does not have to be this way

Japanese small businesses can position themselves for success, but the transition may require effort and cultural shifts, but the potential benefits in terms of cost savings, flexibility, and innovation make it a crucial step for the future of Japan’s small business sector.

The importance of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) for Japanese small businesses cannot be overstated. By ignoring FOSS, these companies are missing out on significant opportunities for growth, innovation, and cost savings.

Oct 16 2024 - Free and Open Source Software in Japan: Untapped Potential for Small Businesses

Japan has a rich history of technological innovation, yet many small businesses in the country remain hesitant to embrace Free and Open Source Software (FOSS). This reluctance stems from misconceptions about support availability and a lack of awareness regarding the benefits FOSS can offer. Let’s explore the current landscape and potential of FOSS in Japan’s small business sector.

The Current State of FOSS in Japan

Japan has been actively involved in the open source movement for over two decades. The Open Source Group Japan, established in 2000, has been promoting the spread of open source culture and engaging in activities to protect it.

Despite this long-standing presence, many small businesses in Japan are still unfamiliar with FOSS and its advantages.

Misconceptions About Support

One of the primary concerns among small businesses in Japan is the perceived lack of support for FOSS. Many believe that without a dedicated vendor, they’ll be left to fend for themselves if issues arise. However, this fear is largely unfounded.

Limited Awareness

Small businesses in Japan often lack awareness about the variety and capabilities of FOSS solutions available. This knowledge gap prevents them from exploring potentially cost-effective and efficient alternatives to proprietary software.

Cost-Effective Solutions

FOSS can provide small businesses with powerful tools at little to no cost, allowing them to allocate resources to other critical areas of their operations.

Customization and Flexibility

Open source software offers the flexibility to modify and adapt solutions to specific business needs, a feature particularly valuable for small businesses with unique requirements.

Community Support

Contrary to the misconception about lack of support, FOSS often comes with robust community backing. The Open Source Summit Japan, for instance, connects thousands of developers and industry leaders, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of support and innovation.

Government Initiatives

The Japanese government has recognized the potential of FOSS. The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) has been actively promoting its use and has even published case studies on FOSS utilization and security management methods.

As Japan continues its digital transformation journey, small businesses have a unique opportunity to leverage FOSS to enhance their competitiveness and efficiency. By addressing misconceptions and increasing awareness, Japan can unlock the full potential of FOSS in its small business sector.

To achieve this, we need to focuse on

• Education and awareness campaigns
• Showcasing successful FOSS implementations in small businesses
• Providing resources and guidance for FOSS adoption
• Encouraging participation in open source communities

By embracing FOSS, small businesses in Japan can not only reduce costs but also contribute to and benefit from a global community of innovation. It’s time for Japan’s small business sector to overcome its hesitations and explore the vast possibilities that Free and Open Source Software has to offer.

Sep 02 2024 - Japanese Businesses Are You Wasting Money on Unused Subscription Services?

Often small businesses find themselves subscribing to numerous software services, each promising to streamline operations and boost productivity. However, this approach can lead to unexpected financial drain and inefficiency. Let’s explore how embracing Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) can help small businesses here in Japan regain control over their tech spending and optimize their operations. The Subscription Trap

Many small businesses fall into the “subscription trap.” They sign up for comprehensive software suites that offer a wide array of tools, many of which may never be used. Even worse, some of these tools might duplicate functionalities already provided by other subscriptions. This redundancy not only wastes money but can also lead to confusion and decreased productivity as employees juggle multiple platforms The FOSS Advantage

By considering Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) alternatives, small businesses can:

Gain Clarity: FOSS helps businesses clearly see which tools they actually need and use regularly. This is really inherent since FOSS does require accountability when it is used. Reduce Costs: Many FOSS options are free or significantly less expensive than their proprietary counterparts. Mostly because no subscription cost, but it forces a organization to be aware of their resource usage. Avoid Vendor Lock-in: FOSS allows businesses to easily switch between solutions without losing data or disrupting workflows. Customize Solutions: Many FOSS tools can be tailored to fit specific business needs.

Realizing Hidden Costs

When small businesses start exploring FOSS alternatives, they often uncover surprising insights about their current tech stack:

Unused Features: They realize they’re paying for advanced features they never use. Why would an organization give hard earned money a way for something that is not even being used. that is a shocker moment. Duplicate Services: They discover multiple subscriptions with overlapping functionalities. Especially in Conferencing and chat tools. Hidden Fees: They uncover additional costs for storage, users, or support that weren’t initially apparent.

Taking Control with FOSS

By adopting FOSS solutions, small businesses can:

Pick and Choose: Select only the tools they need, avoiding bloated software suites. Scale Gradually: Add features and capabilities as the business grows, rather than paying for everything upfront. Increase Flexibility: Easily integrate different tools to create a customized workflow.

The Bottom Line

While subscription services can offer convenience, they often come at a hidden cost that can add up over time. By giving FOSS a chance, small businesses can gain a clearer picture of their actual software needs and usage. This insight not only helps cut unnecessary expenses but also empowers businesses to create a more efficient, tailored tech ecosystem. In today’s competitive landscape, every yen counts. Small businesses should break free from the subscription trap and explore the world of FOSS. mintarc will be here to help you.

Jul 16 2024 - The lack of knowing about FOSS

I’ve noticed a concerning trend: many domestic Japanese companies, especially those outside the tech sector, are unaware of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) and its potential benefits. Let’s change that!

Here are some strategies to promote FOSS adoption in non-tech Japanese businesses:

1. Educational outreach: Organize seminars and workshops tailored for non-tech companies.
2. Develop case studies: Showcase real-world FOSS success stories in Japanese businesses.
3. Partner with industry associations: Collaborate to reach a wider audience.
4. Offer free consultations: Help companies identify FOSS opportunities.
5. Highlight cost-effectiveness: Emphasize potential savings, especially for SMEs.
6. Address security concerns: Dispel myths about open-source security.
7. Showcase ease of use: Demonstrate user-friendly FOSS alternatives.
8. Localization efforts: Ensure FOSS solutions are Japan-ready.
9. Government advocacy: Engage with policymakers to promote FOSS adoption.
10. Create a FOSS resource center: Establish a hub for information and support.
11. Collaborate with universities: Integrate FOSS education into non-tech curricula.

It’s time we bridge this knowledge gap and unlock the potential of FOSS for Japanese businesses. Let’s start a conversation about how we can make this happen!

Jun 10 2024 - Why Free & Open Source Software Matters

Building, tools matter. But what if those tools were freely available, constantly evolving, and built on collaboration? That’s the power of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS).

FOSS isn’t just about saving costs (although that’s a fantastic perk! 😉 ). It’s a philosophy that fosters: Rapid Innovation that anyone can contribute and improve the code, leading to faster development cycles and cutting-edge solutions.

Transparency and Trust, Open source code allows anyone to see how the software works, building trust and security.

Collaboration, global community of developers working together to solve problems and push boundaries.

Think about the building blocks of the digital world

The web browser you’re using likely relies on FOSS projects like Linux and Apache.

The code powering countless websites and apps might have roots in open-source frameworks.

Even the software developers use to build these amazing things often incorporates FOSS tools.

FOSS isn’t just for giants; it’s for businesses of all sizes. It empowers you to - Customize and adapt, tailor FOSS solutions to your specific needs without vendor lock-in.

Empower your team and gives developers the freedom to contribute to the open-source ecosystem and benefit from the collective knowledge.

Be a part of something bigger and contribute to the future of technology and give back to the community that helps you build.

At Mintarc, we’re passionate about FOSS because we believe in building a better, more collaborative future for technology. Are you ready to unlock the power of FOSS for your business?

May 26 2024 - Empowering Data Ownership

In today’s digital age, data is the new gold. But who truly owns this precious asset? Too often, it’s locked away in corporate silos, inaccessible and controlled by a few large entities.

This is where open source shines. By embracing open-source solutions, individuals and organizations gain the freedom to Own Your Data: No more dependency on corporate giants. Open-source tools allow you to store, manage, and control your data as you see fit.

Customize and Innovate: Tailor solutions to meet your specific needs, without waiting for proprietary vendors to catch up.

Build Community: Join a global network of contributors who are committed to transparency, security, and collaboration.

Open source isn’t just a trend; it’s a movement towards a more open, equitable digital future. Let’s break free from centralized data silos and take ownership of our data journey.

Apr 10 2024 - FOSS What it Can Do For Your Organization

In today’s tech landscape, Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) is emerging as a transformative solution for organizations seeking cost-effective, flexible, and sustainable software solutions. Here’s why your organization should consider making the switch:

Cost Savings and Flexibility: FOSS eliminates licensing fees, freeing up resources for other priorities. It offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing organizations to customize software to fit their exact needs without being locked into rigid vendor contracts.

Community Support and Security: Join a thriving community of developers and users who offer assistance, share knowledge, and drive innovation. Benefit from transparent code that undergoes rigorous peer review, ensuring robust security practices and long-term reliability.

Independence from Vendors: Break free from vendor lock-in and take control of your technology stack. FOSS gives you the autonomy to make decisions that align with your organization’s goals, without being at the mercy of proprietary software providers.

Long-Term Sustainability: Invest in software with staying power. FOSS projects tend to have longer lifecycles and enjoy continuous support and development from a dedicated community.

Values Alignment: Embrace the ethos of collaboration, transparency, and innovation. Choosing FOSS not only makes good business sense but also reflects a commitment to open principles and shared values.

Ready to make the switch? Mintarc can help. With their expertise and guidance, transitioning to FOSS has never been smoother. Say hello to a more cost-effective, flexible, and sustainable future with Free and Open Source Software.

Mar 22 2024 - Have you heard of CryptPad

Have you ever heard of CryptPad? It is an open-source online collaborative document platform that has user privacy and security. It lets users create and collaborate on documents, spreadsheets, presentations, in real-time, similar to Google Docs or Microsoft Office Online. With that said, what sets CryptPad apart is its focus on encryption and privacy.

Features of CryptPad include:

End-to-End Encryption: All data stored and transmitted through CryptPad is encrypted on the client-side before it is sent to the server. That means even the platform’s operators cannot access the content of users’ documents.

Privacy: CryptPad is designed to minimize the collection of user data. It does not require users to create accounts or provide personal information to use the service, enhancing privacy.

Collaboration: Multiple users can collaborate on the a document at the same time, with changes being synced in real-time. Each user is assigned a unique encryption key, allowing for secure collaboration.

Document Types: CryptPad supports a variety of document types, including text documents, spreadsheets, presentations, kanban boards.

Customization: Users can customize their documents with various formatting options, embed images and videos, and utilize other features commonly found in standard office suites.

And best of all you can host your own CryptPad server on premise or in the cloud

If you get a chance go check them out: https://cryptpad.org/

Mar 09 2024 - Here’s how FOSS can transform your data engineering endeavors

Cost-Efficiency: FOSS eliminates hefty licensing fees, making it an economical choice for organizations. With tools like Apache Hadoop and Apache Spark, you can harness the power of big data processing without breaking the bank.

Flexibility and Customization: FOSS provides the flexibility to tailor solutions to your specific needs. Tools like Apache Airflow and Talend Open Studio empower data engineers to design workflows and integrate diverse data sources seamlessly.

Collaborative Development: FOSS thrives on collaboration, benefiting from a global community of developers constantly enhancing and refining the software. This collaborative spirit ensures continuous improvement, security patches, and timely updates.

Interoperability: FOSS tools are designed to work seamlessly with one another, promoting interoperability. This interoperable nature allows data engineers to create comprehensive data pipelines by combining various tools that best suit their requirements.

Community Support and Documentation: The vibrant FOSS community offers a wealth of support through forums, documentation, and tutorials. This communal knowledge-sharing ensures that users can easily troubleshoot issues and stay updated on the latest features.

Scalability: FOSS tools are built to scale horizontally, accommodating growing data volumes effortlessly. Whether dealing with terabytes or petabytes of data, FOSS solutions like Apache Kafka and Apache Flink are up to the task.

Feb 14 2024 - Digital Transition with FOSS for Seamless Business Processes

In the rapidly evolving landscape of digital transformation, businesses are seeking innovative solutions to streamline their operations and enhance productivity. One powerful approach gaining traction is the adoption of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) as a compelling alternative to traditional proprietary tools. Let’s explore how embracing FOSS can revolutionize your company’s digital processes, focusing on office suites, online meeting conferencing, and chat tools.

Office Suites: Liberating Your Documents

Say goodbye to expensive licensing fees and proprietary constraints with FOSS office suites like LibreOffice, Cryptpad, Onlyoffice and OpenOffice toe name a few . These feature-rich alternatives provide compatibility with popular formats, ensuring seamless collaboration without the burden of vendor lock-ins. Whether it’s word processing, spreadsheet analysis, or creating visually appealing presentations, FOSS office suites empower your team with versatile tools, fostering a collaborative and efficient work environment.

Online Meeting Conferencing

Virtual meetings have become the norm in today’s globalized world, and FOSS solutions like Jitsi and BigBlueButton offer feature-packed alternatives to proprietary platforms. These tools provide secure and reliable video conferencing, enabling teams to connect effortlessly, share ideas, and collaborate in real-time. Experience high-quality video and audio without compromising on privacy, all while reducing costs associated with subscription-based services.

Unifying Communication Channels with the matrix platform

Communication lies at the heart of any successful organization, and Matrix chat platforms like Element are redefining how teams interact. Embrace decentralization and end-to-end encryption to ensure secure conversations. Matrix chat integrates seamlessly with other collaboration tools, providing a unified platform for communication, file sharing, and project updates. Ditch the limitations of closed ecosystems and embrace the flexibility of FOSS to enhance team connectivity.

Benefits of FOSS Adoption

• Cost-Effective:
  • FOSS eliminates licensing fees, reducing the financial burden on your organization.
• Customization:
  • Tailor software to meet your specific business needs, enhancing overall efficiency.
• Community Support:
  • Join a thriving community of developers and users for ongoing support, updates, and enhancements.
• Security:
  • Open source software is subject to constant scrutiny, making it inherently more secure and transparent.
• Flexibility:
  • Enjoy the freedom to modify, redistribute, and adapt the software to suit your evolving business requirements.

The era of digital transformation beckons, and FOSS stands as a beacon of innovation for businesses seeking cost-effective, secure, and customization solutions. By embracing FOSS for office suites, online meeting conferencing, and chat, companies can break free from the constraints of proprietary software and forge a path towards a more collaborative and efficient future. Make the switch today and join the ranks of businesses revolutionizing their digital landscape with the power of Free and Open Source Software.

Jan 19 2024 - Introducing MintArc

Nurturing Open Source Advocacy and Innovation

Welcome to the inaugural blog post of mintarc, where passion meets purpose, and innovation thrives in the realm of open source advocacy. We’re excited to embark on this journey with you as we introduce mintarc—an open-source advocacy consulting company dedicated to fostering collaboration, innovation, and, empowerment within the vast landscape of open source.

Who We Are:

At MintArc, we are more than just a consultancy; we are a community of advocates, enthusiasts, and professionals who believe in the trans-formative power of open source. Founded on the principles of transparency, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing, mintarc is committed to making a meaningful impact on the open-source ecosystem.

Our Passion for Open Source:

Open source is not just a technology model for us; it’s a philosophy that fuels our endeavors. We are driven by the belief that access to knowledge, collaboration, and innovation should be unrestricted. In a world where proprietary barriers often hinder progress, we envision a future where open source serves as the catalyst for positive change, bringing communities together to solve complex challenges.

What Sets Us Apart:

mintarc stands out not only for its technical expertise but also for its unwavering commitment to advocacy. We understand that open source is more than just code—it’s about building inclusive communities, fostering diversity, and creating opportunities for everyone to contribute and thrive. Our team is dedicated to guiding organizations through the intricacies of open source, ensuring that they not only adopt but also embrace the ethos that drives innovation.

Our Services:

• Consulting: We provide tailored open-source strategies to align with your organizational goals, whether you are a startup, enterprise, or non-profit.
• Training and Workshops: Empower your team with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the open-source landscape confidently.
• Community Building: Establish and nurture vibrant open-source communities to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Join Us on This Journey:

As we embark on this exciting venture, we invite you to join us in championing the principles of open source. Follow our blog for insights, case studies, and the latest trends in the world of open source. Together, let’s build a future where innovation knows no bounds, and where the collective power of collaboration propels us toward new horizons.

Thank you for being part of the mintarc community. Stay tuned for more updates, stories, and adventures in open source advocacy!

Cheers to a future of limitless possibilities!

The mintarc Team