OSS License Chooser

OSS License Chooser is a Japanese-language tool that helps individual developers select an OSS license that fits their project while clarifying how they want their code to be used.

When to Use

You can check questions like "What's the difference between MIT and Apache 2.0?", "I want improved versions of the code to be published too", and "I want source code disclosure even when used as a web service" without getting confused by technical jargon.

What You Can Do

• License diagnosis through 4 questions: Narrow down candidates based on your disclosure policy, how derivative works are handled, SaaS usage, and your thoughts on patent clauses.
• Detailed comparison of 12 types: Compare MIT, Apache 2.0, GPL, LGPL, AGPL, BSD, ISC, MPL, EPL, CDDL, and Unlicense from the perspectives of permissions, obligations, and restrictions.
• Hover explanations: Hover over or tap the "?" marks in the table to confirm the precise meaning of terms and precautions for distribution.
• License detail pages: For each license, find information organized by redistribution, modification, patents, trademarks, warranties and liability, pre-distribution checklist, and links to official text.
• Compatibility checker: Check general guidelines for points to confirm when combining licenses.

How to Use

1. Start with "Diagnose through 4 questions" to put your disclosure policy into words.
2. From the recommended result, click "See details" to confirm the conditions for redistribution and modification.
3. If you're unsure between candidates, compare the differences using the detailed comparison table and compatibility checker.

Important Notes

This tool organizes general information for license selection. Actual decisions vary depending on the license text, dependencies, how code is combined, distribution methods, and countries or regions, so please check the official text before publishing or selling.

OSS License Chooserを開く