I like open source, but...

Not sure how I came across it, but I found out that an open source CRM program has been recently introduced, called SugarCRM. A quick look at the SourceForge website tells me it runs on mySQL/PHP backend. Cool!

So I start checking out their demo, which has all the basics there. The only thing obviously missing (and it is important to me) is a product database for proposal generation. Maybe I can get it to talk to QuoteWerks. Hmmm.

Then I start digging a little farther and find out that the software is open-source code, but not necessarily a free ride. It is actually a product of a start-up company who looks to make money on it as "commercial open source", which seems like an oxymoron:

"There will be a production support contract, a yearly per-user subscription to product updates, patches, technical support, training, and documentation." (Line56.com: SugarCRM Comes Out of Stealth Mode at line56.com)

Their website isn't that specific, but it is honest: "Download it, install it, run it for free or upgrade to a commercial license ? your choice... We only want to be paid once we have proven we have generated value for your company, not one minute sooner."

Would you use SugarCRM? Should I? At least its got to be a better deal than Saleforce.com!