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6. Evolution

Many people believe that in the enterprise world, Microsoft is king. Fortunately, there are indeed open source applications that will fit the bill. The best of the bunch is known simply as Evolution. This PIM (personal information manager) offers a true-to-life alternative to that of the closed source option know simply as Outlook.

Evolution features junk mail filtering, task and calendering functions, along with full, unfettered support for MS Exchange and Novell Groupwise. Any way you cut it, this blows the doors off of other open source PIM options for daily enterprise operations.

Compatibility: Windows and Linux

7. Firefox

Just like any other kind of user out there, the enterprise user needs access to a safe, secure, and well-maintained web browser. And for my money (or lack there of), I generally feel that Firefox makes the most sense for the following reasons: It is extendable, thanks to Firefox add-ons that grant the browser extra functionality; and Firefox is secure, so there are no ActiveX "gotchas."

Having said this, I will say that in some cases you may find yourself sacrificing stability for compatibility. In short, Firefox is a must-have as it is compatible cross platform. But there are still some rare instances where it may crash on you, especially with specific Flash content. This said, Firefox will allow you to restore any windows opened during a crash -- definitely a plus.

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OS X

8. Lazy8 Ledger

Accounting is key for any enterprise. After carefully considering all of the options, I've come to one viable conclusion for the enterprise user -- Lazy8 Ledger. Now, to be clear, this application does require a little polish in order to be effective for larger corporations, but in the end, Lazy8 Ledger can be used effectively by accounting professionals.

One thing to note: this is accounting software for accounting professionals. GNUCash it's not.

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OS X

9. OpenPro ERP

Running today's enterprise takes time, skill, and the right kind of software. One of the common misconceptions out there is that in order to see any level of quality, you must have access to a closed source solution. This is simply not the case.

Enter OpenPro ERP. Designed for just about any ERP (enterprise resource planning) need you can think of, this application will give you the functionality you need today, with the expandability your company will be looking for tomorrow. Overall, OpenPro ERP is rock solid at its core.

Compatibility: Web based, considered to be cross platform or platform independent

10. Pidgin

Even within the enterprise environment, a solid instant messenger is a must. To this end, I feel good recommending an instant messenger known as Pidgin, formally known as Gaim. Supporting multiple protocols, a number of separate user accounts, and offering more instant messenger functionality than an enterprise user could ever want, in almost every way, Pidgin is a must have for in-office, real time communication.

Compatibility: Windows and Linux (OS X users should look into Adium)

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