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Open Source or Software Libre deserves a prominent place in the proper functioning of Government. From transparency in accounting to public policy, software applications and open data formats allow equal access to information that rightly belongs in the public domain. President Barrack Obama has begun his term with a request to Scott McNealy, co-founder of Sun Microsystems, to explore in what manner Open Source can serve the public good.

From the BBC:

The secret to a more secure and cost effective government is through open source technologies and products.

The claim comes from one of Silicon Valley's most respected business leaders Scott McNealy, a co-founder of Sun Microsystems.

He revealed he has been asked to prepare a paper on the subject for the new administration.

"It's intuitively obvious open source is more cost effective and productive than proprietary software," he said.

"Open source does not require you to pay a penny to Microsoft or IBM or Oracle or any proprietary vendor any money."

Mr McNealy told the BBC he wants to ensure the government does not get "locked in" to one specific vendor or company.

It is obvious to us as well.  The real benefit is, however, not that you do not have to pay anyone for software and services, but that you are not required to pay a particular vendor. Open Source software distributed under the GPL license allows you, the company or organization, to choose your partner. Since you have a choice, vendors compete for your business, and as a result may provide a more competitive solution.

Read "Top 10 Ways to Save Money on IT in 2009" for a better idea of Altamente's ideas on IT costs.