Our Approach¶
TAPPaaS is an open-source initiative that assembles existing FOSS components into an integrated platform rather than building from scratch. Most of the vision can be realized using existing open source software - our job is to curate, integrate, and automate.
Core Design Principles¶
The project adheres to several key guidelines:
1. Free and Open Source Software¶
All components must be Free and Open Source Software. No proprietary dependencies, no vendor lock-in.
2. Deliberately Limited Options¶
We limit options to reduce barriers for new users. Rather than offering every possible choice, we make opinionated decisions that work well together.
3. Mature, Actively Maintained Software¶
We prioritize software that has proven itself in production environments and has an active community maintaining it.
4. Seamless Integration and Automation¶
Every module must integrate seamlessly with the others. Automation is built-in from the start, not bolted on afterward.
5. Distinct User Experiences¶
We create distinct experiences for different roles:
- Developers - Building and extending the platform
- Installers - Deploying TAPPaaS for users
- Maintainers - Keeping systems running day-to-day
- End Users - Using the services without worrying about infrastructure
6. Mobile Accessibility¶
The platform must be accessible from mobile devices. Modern users expect to manage their digital lives from anywhere.
7. Offline Functionality¶
Systems must work even when internet connectivity is limited or unavailable. Local resilience is a core requirement.
Assembly Over Creation¶
Rather than reinventing the wheel, TAPPaaS focuses on:
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Curation | Selecting the best open source tools for each function |
| Integration | Configuring components to work together seamlessly |
| Automation | Scripting installation and maintenance tasks |
| Documentation | Making the platform accessible to non-experts |
This approach lets us move faster and build on the collective work of the open source community.