[Open source biotechnology: synopsis of a meeting of two revolutions]

Open source is a development and knowledge transfer model for software that exploits the power of distributed peer review and transparency of process. In recent years, importing the open source model from the field of information technology, where it has met with considerable success, to the field of biotechnology, has been suggested. Integrating open source into the field of biotechnology holds the promise of improving collaboration and transparency in biotechnology research at a time when both elements are urgently needed. However, despite the projected benefits, in-depth analysis shows that the integration and success of the open source model vary across different production fields as well as, among other things, with the scope, the objectives, the modularity and the granularity of a given project. Accordingly, in order to capitalize on the potential of open source, integration of the two fields will have to be well-thought-out and strategic.