"I had two fascinating interviews today about two initiatives, one in the People's Republic of China and one in the United States, for promoting public-sector computer applications--and thereby the use of open-source software.
"The Beijing municipal government is getting ready to launch version 1.0 of a system aimed at bringing applications to rural areas. They plan to use the same model for low- and middle-income residents of cities, small and medium enterprises, and educational institutions. Linux (through the well-known Red Flag distribution) is a key part of the rural system. What's interesting for me is the role of government..."