open source software in local government?

[oss]

A bit off topic for this group. Sorry.


How many local authorities use open source software, and how much of it do
they use? How viable would a switch to open source software be?

Thanks.

 

[Martin Davies]

A bit off topic for this group. Sorry.


How many local authorities use open source software, and how much of it do
they use? How viable would a switch to open source software be?

Thanks.

If you don't mind me asking, what is open source software?

Martin <><

 

[Pat Winstanley]

If you don't mind me asking, what is open source software?

Read about the concept etc here:

http://www.opensource.org/

 

[anthonyberet]

A bit off topic for this group. Sorry.


How many local authorities use open source software, and how much of it do
they use? How viable would a switch to open source software be?

I don't think many do.
I believe LB Lambeth floated the idea a while ago, and Microsoft kindly
provided a study (for free!) of Lambeth's systems to advise which would
be best.
It was found that Microsoft stuff is more cost-effective and secure then
any open-source possibility for a local government.

 

[Pat Winstanley]

I don't think many do.
I believe LB Lambeth floated the idea a while ago, and Microsoft kindly
provided a study (for free!) of Lambeth's systems to advise which would
be best.
It was found that Microsoft stuff is more cost-effective and secure then
any open-source possibility for a local government.

Well it would, wouldn't it!

I wonder what an independently funded/organised study would have shown?

 

[Martin Davies]

Well it would, wouldn't it!

I wonder what an independently funded/organised study would have shown?

Or better yet, some uninterested expert popping along and seeing whats
needed.

Some of these 'official' studies take months and a load of money, but the
simple answer can be had in an afternoon by 1 guy.

Martin <><