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Should the federal government go open source?

Recently, a group of open-source executives wrote an open letter to President Obama, requesting that he "make the use of open source software a key component of every new technology initiative the United States government enters into.” Several different opinions have been floating around cyberspace on this since the letter was published. Some believe this is the way to help cut costs in the future, others believe it’s a waste of time.

One question that has also come up is the notion of whether open source software would improve security because there would be visibility at every level, and if there is any organization that demands the utmost security, it’s the U.S. government.

As you’ve seen from our recent posts, this blog is all about sharing insights from the industry’s top brains in security. So what do you think? Can the government create the most secure software with open source? What would be the best applications – digital health records? What would be some other implications of government moving toward open source?

I look forward to seeing your thoughts here.
Chuck Miller

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