Leaping one step further into expanding the digital world and innovative platforms, such as Linux or GNU, Randall Packer went ahead and expanded these innovations by creating the Open Source Studio (OSS).
The term open source originated in the context of software development to designate a specific approach to creating computer programs. Open Source Studio (OSS) is a joint, online software environment programmed to meet the needs and dynamics of studio-based teaching in the media arts, where it is open publicly. It provides new potential for artists to collaborate or produce peer to peer artistic results amplified by the network. Furthermore, it exposes open source thinking to challenge and inspire peers. Encouraging the cross pollination of ideas and process for in-depth understanding and learning in order to produce artistic fruitage. This leads to the emphasis of DIWO (Do It With Others).
Through OSS, peer to peer interaction became more inclusive where concepts were easily understood through the reference of the documentation of peers. It also allows us to see or read in different perspectives or manipulation, in order to achieve a broader mind. Moreover, engaging on online discussion, comments or feedback. Creative inspiration comes from the ‘outdoors’, where social interaction stands. OSS promotes the fairness to artists to document or reference anything, however, it crosses a blur line onto the laws of plagiarism and copyrights.
OSS is all about the collaborative practices among peer groups that share goals, methods, ideologies, and aspirations that helps all of us grow.
