Ask HN: in open source projects, is the design/UI also open?

3 pointsevancaine2 comments

I suck at design. I've come across a couple of open source webapps with interfaces that would suit my current project. Is it OK to copy the design (virtually pixel for pixel) or would that be going against the spirit of open source?

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Or you can look into buying something on the cheap: http://themeforest.net/category/site-templates/admin-skins

It should be, but you might check with the creators before using their interface design. It might weaken their brand or create confusion if you make something that looks like a copy.

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