CABINET OFFICE News
Release (CAB/013/09) issued by COI News Distribution Service. 24
February 2009
The Government
today published a new policy on Open Source software that will
ensure maximum value for money for taxpayers.
Minister for Digital Engagement, Tom Watson, said the new policy
reflects changes to both the Open Source market and the
Government's approach to IT. It sets out ten actions that
will make sure of a level playing field for Open Source Software,
and encourage the use of Open Standards.
Tom Watson MP, said:
"The world of technology has moved on hugely since we last
set out our thinking on Open Source, which is why it was so
important to update our policy.
"Open Source products are more competitive and have become
easier to include in business, and major players in the IT
industry now support the use of Open Standards.
"Several Government departments already use Open Source
components and I hope this new policy will encourage others to
follow suit.
"Open Source software is a not a cure-all remedy and is not
the only solution to IT questions. However, by levelling the
playing field and allowing Open Source to be as competitive as
possible we can ensure that taxpayers get maximum value for money
from Government IT, something that is more important than ever
during the worldwide financial climate."
There are three aspects to the new policy:
Open Source software: the policy includes 10 actions that will
actively help make sure the best possible, best value for money
software solutions are put forward for tenders, be they Open
Source or propriety products.
Open Standards: the policy contains an explicit reference to Open
Standards, ensuring systems are inter-operable and avoiding
getting locked into a particular product where possible.
Re-use: the Government will look to re-use what it has already
bought, with successful solutions being made available across Government.
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