While open-source software offers many benefits to governments, there are also some reasons why not all government software is or can be open-source. Governments have to consider various factors when choosing between open-source and proprietary software solutions.
Certain government needs and situations may be better served by proprietary software despite the advantages of open source. There are a number of obstacles preventing governments from making all software open-source.
Security Concerns
For some government functions, security is the top priority. While open-source software is reviewed by many programmers, it is not impervious to vulnerabilities. Sensitive government systems require an extra level of security that open source may not provide.
Proprietary software with limited access and strict controls is better suited for high-security government networks and applications. Governments want full oversight and management of security for critical IT infrastructure without open access.
Lack Of Support
Community support is a benefit of open source, it does not match dedicated vendor support. For complex government software solutions, direct professional support from the providing company is essential.
Without adequate technical support, governments struggle to implement software effectively, manage challenges, and resolve issues in a timely manner.
Proprietary software vendors are accountable for support with service-level agreements, but open-source support lacks guarantees. For mission-critical government software, vendor support may be preferable.
Integration Issues
Integrating open-source and proprietary systems can prove complicated, and in some cases nearly impossible. When governments have already invested in certain proprietary software solutions for local government, open-source replacements may not integrate well with existing technology.
The time, effort, and cost required to integrate the systems fully can outweigh the benefits of open source. Rather than overhaul working proprietary software, governments opt to maintain it or choose new proprietary solutions that easily integrate.
Hidden Costs
While open-source software is free or low-cost to obtain, it still requires investment to deploy and manage effectively. Governments have to allocate funds and resources for the implementation, customization, security, support, and ongoing maintenance of open-source solutions.
The hidden costs of staffing, training, and operating open-source software are often underestimated. When the total cost of ownership is considered, open source is not always the most budget-friendly option for governments compared to proprietary software.
Lack Of Capability
Open-source solutions do not exist for all government software needs. In some cases, there are no open-source alternatives that provide the capabilities and functionality required.
Proprietary software is the only choice when open-source lacks certain features or does not meet government standards.
Unless a community of open-source contributors decides to develop software to meet that specific need, governments have no option but to choose proprietary solutions in such situations.
Resistance To Change
Transitioning from proprietary to open-source software requires significant changes that some governments are unprepared for or resistant to make.
Migrating data, retraining staff, restructuring vendor contracts, and changing deeply-ingrained processes can encounter opposition.
While interoperability of open source seems appealing, governments still struggle with the adjustments required especially if current proprietary software largely fulfils needs.
The desire to maintain the status quo and avoid the challenges of open source prevents some governments from making a full transition.
