Open Technology Foundation Profiled on International Open Government Podcast
Jun 14, 2012
The Open Technology Foundation (OTF), a CMU-Australia-based association dedicated to helping governments make cost effective and innovative use of open technologies, was profiled on a recent episode of Government2.0 Radio. During the podcast, OTF Chair Terry Cutler and General Manager Steven Schmid discussed the organization’s mission and the importance of open technologies with respect to government.
Open technologies are interoperable systems based on publicly accepted open development standards. Proponents believe they offer innovative and cost-effective alternatives to the proprietary solutions employed throughout governments worldwide. The OTF is the first organization based in Australia and New Zealand to promote open technologies in the public sector.
“The OTF works with the open technology industry, academia and governments to supply accurate information,” says Schmid, an alumni of CMU-Australia’s Master of Science in Information Technology program. “We work with suppliers to meet demand for open technology where no open alternative exists.”
A long-term goal of the foundation is to establish an international sharing alliance that publishes research pertaining to the use of open technologies in the public sector. Schmid feels the OTF’s relationship with CMU can help make this a reality.
“CMU is globally recognized for implementing these types of collaborations and the support we’ve already received from Terry Buss, executive director for CMU-Australia, has been incredible,” he explains. “Much of the credit for the OTF’s success thus far goes to Terry. He gave us the confidence to start something like this and has provided valuable insight throughout the entire process.”
The OTF is currently developing a dynamic online portal, through which most communication and information will be published. A number of projects focussing on interoperability are also in the works for local councils. More information about the Open Technology Foundation can be found at http://www.heinz.cmu.edu/OTF.
Photo: OTF General Manager Steven Schmid
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