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alexopensource commented on     · Posted by u/alexopensource
alexopensource · a year ago
Hey Hacker News,

I’m a co-founder of OpenSign, an open-source alternative to DocuSign. Recently, something concerning happened in our project that I believe the community should know about.

Someone has forked OpenSign and is attempting to strip all paid plan restrictions, replacing our project logos with their own. They even submitted a PR for these changes. While this technically complies with the AGPLv3 license that OpenSign is built on, it raises ethical questions about how open-source projects should operate.

OpenSign was designed to provide accessible, open-source e-signature tools while sustaining development through optional paid plans. This move doesn’t just undercut those plans—it undermines the sustainability of the project itself.

We’re committed to the open-source ethos, but forks like this create a dangerous precedent, especially when they explicitly try to hijack the original project's identity and monetization strategy.

I’d love to hear your thoughts—should open-source projects have more safeguards? Is this just "fair game" in the open-source world? How do we as a community draw ethical boundaries while respecting open-source licenses?

Let’s discuss!

alexopensource commented on New Features in OpenSign v1.1.0-beta (alternative to DocuSign)   opensign.medium.com/excit... · Posted by u/thunderbong
alexopensource · 2 years ago
Here’s a quick rundown of the new features we’ve added:

1. Template-Based Document Creation: Streamline your workflow with the ability to create and share documents using pre-saved templates.

2. Enhanced Signature Customization: Now includes options to input signatures in various text formats and fonts, adding a personalized touch to your documents.

3. Improved Placeholder Management UI: A more intuitive and user-friendly interface for managing signature placeholders, including enhanced resizing capabilities.

4. Efficient Document Organization Tools: New functionalities to delete and move documents within the OpenSign™ drive for better file management.

5. Seamless Email Integration: Easily send signed documents via email directly from the platform, enhancing the document signing and sharing process.

6. Cross-Device Placeholder Compatibility: Ensures consistent placeholder experiences across both mobile and desktop platforms.

7. Customizable User Support Options: Includes a ‘don’t show again’ option for help guides and direct links for easy communication with the OpenSign team.

8. Key Bug Fixes and Performance Enhancements: Addressing various user-reported issues for a smoother, more reliable OpenSign™ experience.

These updates aim to make OpenSign™ a stronger contender in the open source digital signing space, rivalling traditional solutions like DocuSign with a community-driven, user-centric approach.

alexopensource commented on OpenSign: The Open Source Challenger to DocuSign   docs.kanaries.net/article... · Posted by u/alexopensource
toomuchtodo · 2 years ago
Sorry, meant the post being on HN, not the project itself. The sale might be relevant to customers of DocuSign who are potentially considering migrating before the usual enshittification that happens after a sale.
alexopensource · 2 years ago
Absolutely. The potential sale of DocuSign could indeed be a pivotal moment for its current customers & OpenSign™. This uncertainty might be a perfect opportunity for users to explore alternatives like OpenSign™.

OpenSign™ offers a robust and user-friendly solution that aligns with the needs of those looking for stability and consistency in their document management and e-signature processes. As an open-source platform, OpenSign™ is not only free but also constantly evolving with contributions from a community focused on reliability and innovation.

For those considering a switch, now might be an ideal time to test OpenSign™ and experience the benefits of an open-source, community-driven alternative. Plus, being part of our user community means having a say in the future developments of the tool. It's a win-win for users seeking control and quality in their e-signature solutions.

alexopensource commented on OpenSign: The Open Source Challenger to DocuSign   docs.kanaries.net/article... · Posted by u/alexopensource
toomuchtodo · 2 years ago
Great timing with DocuSign exploring a sale.
alexopensource · 2 years ago
Not sure what you are trying to say. The product had been in development for a long time - around 6-7 months. How do you think the news of DocuSign exploring a sale will impact us?
alexopensource commented on Show HN: Open-Source DocuSign Alternative   opensignlabs.com... · Posted by u/amolshejole
alexopensource · 2 years ago
Dear hacker news community, We would love to get your feedback on what is that one thing that you would like to change/improve in your current document signing solution?

u/alexopensource

KarmaCake day267October 28, 2023View Original