Swiss government explores replacing Microsoft 365 with open-source software
Swiss authorities have launched a pilot project to determine whether it is possible to replace Microsoft 365 with similar open-source services, RTS reports . This follows a proof-of-concept project in which 172 civil servants tested the German open-source platform openDesk. According to Matthias Stürmer, a professor at the University of Bern, there are three main reasons for the switch: to reduce…
The Swiss government is currently investigating the feasibility of replacing Microsoft 365 with open-source software alternatives, according to a report by RTS. This decision stems from a pilot project where 172 civil servants tested the German open-source platform openDesk. Professor Matthias Stürmer of the University of Bern outlines three primary reasons for this potential switch: reducing reliance on US-based services, enhancing operational reliability, and cutting costs.
The initial phase of the migration will involve 3,000 computers, representing 7% of Switzerland's federal workforce, which operates more than 54,000 workstations. The government prioritizes employees handling sensitive data for this pilot, as reported by RTS. Switzerland's Armed Forces have already commenced this transition to openDesk, with completion expected by October, as noted by It's FOSS.
This initiative aligns with a broader 'digital sovereignty' effort within the European Union, which seeks to maintain local control over data, applications, and infrastructure. In January, EU lawmakers tasked the European Commission with identifying critical technology dependencies and devising strategies to decrease dependence on foreign providers.
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