Open Tools
Empowering Creativity through Free & Open Source Software (FOSS)
About Open Tools
At OpenForm – Open Source Design & Training Network, we strongly believe that freedom in learning begins with freedom in software.
Our training programs are powered entirely by Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) — professional-grade tools that are free to use, modify, and distribute.
These tools allow learners, freelancers, and entrepreneurs to create high-quality digital work without investing in costly software licenses.
OpenForm’s mission is to make open tools accessible to everyone — from rural students to creative professionals — and promote Digital Self-Reliance across India.
Design Tools
Inkscape – Vector Graphic Design
Create stunning vector graphics, logos, and illustrations with Inkscape — a free alternative to Adobe Illustrator.
Key Features:
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Logo & poster design
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Scalable vector graphics (SVG) format
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Path editing and typography tools
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Print-ready export options
Used In: DTP Design, Branding, Print Media
GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) – Image Editing
An open-source alternative to Photoshop, GIMP is perfect for photo editing, color correction, and digital retouching.
Key Features:
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Layer-based editing
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Retouching and enhancement tools
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Filters and plugins
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Supports all major file formats
Used In: Photo Editing, Social Media Posts, Digital Art
Scribus – Page Layout & DTP Design
Scribus is a professional open-source tool for desktop publishing and layout design — similar to Adobe InDesign.
Key Features:
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Multi-page layout support
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CMYK color management
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Pre-press and PDF export
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Perfect for magazines, books, and brochures
Used In: DTP, Print & Publication Design
Multimedia & Video Tools
Kdenlive – Video Editing
A powerful open-source video editor used for professional and social media content creation.
Key Features:
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Multi-track timeline
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Transitions and effects
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Audio mixing
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4K video export
Used In: Video Editing, YouTube, E-learning
Audacity – Audio Editing & Recording
A simple yet professional audio recording and editing software.
Key Features:
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Record voice and background music
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Cut, mix, and enhance sound
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Noise reduction and filters
Used In: Podcasts, Video Narration, Music Production
Blender – Animation & 3D Design
Blender is a complete open-source suite for 3D modeling, animation, and rendering.
Key Features:
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3D modeling and rigging
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Animation and motion graphics
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Video compositing
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Game asset creation
Used In: Animation, Game Design, Visual Effects
Office & Productivity Tools
LibreOffice Suite – Office & Documentation
LibreOffice is a full-featured office suite — a free alternative to Microsoft Office.
Includes:
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Writer (Word Processor)
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Calc (Spreadsheet)
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Impress (Presentation)
Used In: Office Work, Data Entry, Reports, Presentations
OnlyOffice / Collabora – Online Collaboration Tools
Create, edit, and share office documents collaboratively with team members.
Used In: Online classrooms, documentation, and digital offices.
Web & Development Tools
HTML + CSS + Bootstrap
Learn website design using open web standards — no licenses required!
Key Features:
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Responsive website creation
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Open-source frameworks
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Supported by all browsers
Used In: Web Design, Hosting, Digital Portfolios
GitHub Pages – Free Web Hosting
Host your personal or project website for free using GitHub Pages.
Key Features:
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Secure static website hosting
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Version control with Git
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Integrated with open web tools
Used In: Portfolio Sites, Project Hosting
Extra Creative & Support Tools
Krita – Digital Painting & Illustration
Best suited for artists who love sketching and digital art.
Used In: Cartooning, Illustration, Concept Art
OBS Studio – Screen Recording & Live Streaming
Open Broadcast Software (OBS) is perfect for tutorials, webinars, and online teaching.
Used In: E-learning, YouTube Streaming, Screen Capture
Canva (Free Version) – Quick Online Design
An easy-to-use drag-and-drop design tool for creating quick graphics.
Used In: Social Media Posts, Marketing, Presentations
Why We Use Open Tools
1️⃣ Promote freedom and transparency in digital education
2️⃣ Encourage innovation and creativity in students
3️⃣ Reduce dependency on costly proprietary software
4️⃣ Support the open-source community
5️⃣ Enable self-reliant and sustainable digital entrepreneurship
Get Started
All these open tools are free to download, use, and share.
You can explore, learn, and master them with our guided training programs.
Visit our Courses page to enroll and learn how to use these tools professionally.