Open Source Software implementation in the UK public sector: Evidence from the field and implications for the future

Open Source Software (OSS) is a model of computer software development where the source code is available for programmers to view, read, modify and re-distribute without the property right restrictions of proprietary software. OSS has existed as a model for developing computer applications and software since the 1950s. However, OSS has only found its way into the public arena within the past decade due to some major projects gaining significant market share from commercial developers such as Microsoft. Research in the area of OSS has become more extensive in recent years and has examined areas such as motivation of programmers as well as the benefits of OSS. However, literature focusing on the actual implementation of OSS is more limited with only Fitzgerald and Kenny [(2004). Developing an information infrastructure with Open Source Software. IEEE Software, 50–55] providing any substantial analysis of how it might be achieved. In this paper the focus is on OSS use and implementation within the UK public sector. This sector has a history of resource wastage and underperforming information systems. The underpinning issues of motivation and benefits to organisations will be addressed along with the difficulties that the UK Government faces in adopting an OSS strategy. Section 2 examines the existing literature in the area and explores why OSS should be adopted and implemented by the public sector in the UK. Section 3 considers the research approach taken and the results obtained from considering the implementation of OSS in eight government organisations. Section 4 concludes with a discussion and some implications for those organisations in the public sector who might wish to take this approach.