MIGRATING PUBLIC ADMINISTRATIONS TO OPEN SOURCE SOFTWARE

In this paper we present some experiences of Public Administrations migrating to Open Source Software and we discuss a project which addresses the migration issue at large. In particular, we discuss COSPA, a research project aimed at studying and supporting the introduction of open source software in the Public Administration. COSPA focuses on office automation and desktop system software and aims at rigorously measuring the effort, costs and benefits of a transition to Open Source. The results of the study would help Public Administration’s managers in their strategic decisions for implementing eGovernment services. The project has also established an “observer” status, by means of which interested parties may access COSPA’s results, thereby fostering collaboration and increasing dissemination of knowledge.