osalt

osalt is an online directory that catalogs free and open-source software alternatives to proprietary applications. The name is commonly interpreted as "Open Source as Alternative." The site is intended as a discovery tool for users and organizations seeking open-source options for tasks such as office productivity, graphics and design, email and collaboration, development, server infrastructure, and content management.

Entries typically include the name of the project, a brief description of its functionality, category tags, and links to the project's official website or repository. The resource is organized to allow users to browse by category or search for alternatives to specific commercial products. Some listings also provide screenshots, feature notes, and community-sourced suggestions or comments.

osalt is one of several web resources aimed at promoting open-source adoption by making alternatives easier to find and compare. Its strength lies in aggregating many projects in one place, which can speed the initial research phase for users considering a migration or trial. Limitations include variable completeness and currency of entries; as with many community-driven directories, information may become outdated and does not substitute for direct evaluation of a project's suitability, security, or maintenance status.

Users interested in exploring open-source alternatives often consult osalt alongside other directories, reviews, and the projects' own documentation to form a comprehensive view before adoption.