Free open source software has huge potential to be an enabler for effective service delivery for government.
So says Tendai Khumalo, senior executive for industry sales at T-Systems in SA, who points out transformation is at the heart of government's agenda, with service delivery improvement key among transformation initiatives.
According to Khumalo, embracing technology as an enabler of service delivery across the different spheres of government can assist with providing more effect and efficient services to citizens.
However, he says, as with all government initiatives, cost is always a significant driver, which means many proprietary software solutions simply are not affordable.
He adds free open source software provides a platform to develop and customise solutions to meet specific requirements at a lower cost than proprietary technologies.
"While the benefits of free open source software are multiple, this technology is immature in South Africa, and presents a variety of challenges, including a skills shortage, perceived security issues and, more importantly, the lack of buy-in by industry."
According to Khumalo, one of the main drivers to go the free open source software route is to cut down ICT-related costs.
However, he believes in order to realise the true benefits of free open source software, it is essential for the IT industry as a whole to support and invest in this initiative.
"While the idea of dramatically cutting costs and margins potentially conflicts with corporate business models, there is enormous opportunity in a shared risk model between government and the IT industry. Specific areas of interest should be identified as a test case. Once done, all issues and risk related to new projects should be established, allowing organic growth in a safe environment."
By its nature, Khumalo notes, open source software provides government with relative flexibility to utilise the technology at will, providing speedier options to develop and adapt to the constantly changing needs of citizens.
Free open source software also brings its fair share of challenges; however, these are no different to those related to any new technology adoption.
"A partnership between government and industry will significantly reduce the majority of the perceived threats. Partnerships between government and private sector around the delivery of free open source software will help provide the necessary skills, share the risk, and deliver ICT that works for South Africa."
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