Cloud computing services may just be providing the nudge SMBs need to migrate to open source platforms and trim costs. At least that’s the thinking of Alex Vuchnich at AccountingWEB.com.

He makes a good case. After all, web services hide the plumbing from the users and the only true compatibility worry boils down to a browser’s capabilities. Mind you, there is still an operating system at work, but the link between the productivity the app provides and the platform it runs on begins to dissolve perceptually.

As users grow comfortable with this way of thinking, he argues, it can provide an opportunity for open source.

…If this proves to be the case, many small businesses can truly benefit from this shift. Linux typically has a lower occurrence and vulnerability to virus attacks and worms. It also is an extremely stable platform which translates into more uptime and productivity. Lastly, it spares the small business owner of the hassle of managing access licenses and the potential liability of having improperly licensed software.

What do you think? Is cloud computing a boon for open source software?