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Implementing eGovernment without promoting dependence: open source software in developing countries in Southeast Asia
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Implementing eGovernment without promoting dependence: open source software in developing countries in Southeast Asia

I. Cook and G. Horobin
Public Administration and Development, Vol.26(4), pp.279-289
10/2006
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/pad.403
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Abstract

Given that eGovernment is likely to become part of development strategies, the most desirable form of eGovernment is that which promotes the domestic generation of intellectual property or, at least, contributes least to the international intellectual property (IP) imbalance. One way to achieve these ends is to implement eGovernment using free or open source software (FOSS). This will reduce dependence on software owned by major companies in developed countries. It could also promote an IP generating capacity in developing countries. An examination of the status of free or open source software in developing countries in Southeast Asia reveals that governments in these countries are aware of FOSS and wish to foster its use (but face considerable pressure to use proprietary software). This examination also reveals the presence of small but active groups seeking to develop and promote the use of free or open source software. This article is comprised of a discussion of FOSS (including that suitable for eGovernment), an explanation of the importance of FOSS for developing countries, a justification of government's centrality to the introduction of FOSS and a consideration of policies and initiatives undertaken by governments in developing countries in Southeast Asia.

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Citation topics
6 Social Sciences
6.110 Law
6.110.1117 Intellectual Property
Web Of Science research areas
Development Studies
Public Administration
ESI research areas
Social Sciences, general
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