“The main drive for a successful migration to Open Source and
Open Data Standards software(OS/ODS) always starts with a clear
assessment of the IT landscape, a clear vision of the needs and
benefits of the transitions and continual support. The differences
of OS development models and support may require a significant
change in the way software and services are accounted for and
procured, and in general a shift of responsibility from outside
contractors to in-house personnel.“Management support and commitment have been repeatedly found to
be the single most important variable for the success of complex IT
efforts, and OS/ODS migrations in particular. This commitment must
be guaranteed for a time period sufficient to cover the complete
migration; this means that in organizations where IT directors are
frequently changed, or where management changes in fixed periods of
times (for example, in Pas where election happens frequently) there
must be a process in place to hand over management of the
migration. The commitment should also extend to funding (as
transitions and training will require resources, both monetary and
in-house). The best way to insure continued coordination is to
appoint a team with mixed experiences (management and technical) to
provide continuous feedback and day-to-day management…”