The Schleswig-Holstein state government in northern Germany is migrating 30,000 PCs from Microsoft Windows and Office to Linux and LibreOffice, prioritising digital sovereignty and reducing reliance on proprietary software.
After a successful pilot project, Schleswig-Holstein has become the first German state to fully embrace a comprehensive shift to free and open source software (FOSS).
This initiative involves a multi-tiered support system with government agencies and private companies collaborating to ensure a smooth transition.
The adoption of the Open Document Format (ODF) as the standard further strengthens the state's commitment to open-source solutions.
The project addresses data security concerns highlighted by the European Data Protection Supervisor's (EDPS) findings regarding Microsoft 365 and aims for LibreOffice to become the primary office suite by October 2025. The migration also leverages open-source tools for telephony and other IT infrastructure components.
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Why is Schleswig-Holstein Migrating to LibreOffice?
The concept of digital sovereignty, the ability of a government to control its own IT infrastructure and data, is the main reason to this decision.
Using proprietary, closed-source software like Microsoft Office presents a significant concern, as the state government has limited insight into how user data is handled. This lack of transparency raises worries about potential data outflow to third countries.
Furthermore, Schleswig-Holstein aims to promote responsible use of taxpayer funds. By adopting LibreOffice and other FOSS solutions, the state government can avoid vendor lock-in and support a diverse provider landscape. This approach allows for greater control over software customization, security, and cost efficiency.
How is the Migration Taking Place?
The migration is being implemented strategically, with a focus on user adoption and minimizing disruption.
LibreOffice is being provisioned to all users alongside their existing Microsoft Office installations.
The state government is actively encouraging the use of Open Document Format (ODF), which became the official document standard on 1 August 2024. This move incentivizes the use of LibreOffice and ensures greater document interoperability and longevity.
While Microsoft Office will remain accessible until October 2025, the aim is for LibreOffice to be the sole standard office software on 70% of government workstations by that time. This strategy allows for a gradual transition, giving users time to adapt and departments to address specific compatibility needs.
To support the migration, Schleswig-Holstein has established a three-tier support ecosystem:
- Dataport, a government-owned IT service provider, manages first and second-level support, including training workshops and a dedicated LibreOffice support forum.
- .riess applications and allotropia, two external companies specializing in open-source software, provide third-level support, including macro migration, bug analysis, and feature development. This collaborative approach ensures comprehensive support for users throughout the migration process.
What are the Benefits of Using LibreOffice?
The migration to LibreOffice brings many benefits for Schleswig-Holstein:
1. Enhanced Digital Sovereignty
By using FOSS, the state government gains greater control over its IT infrastructure and data, reducing reliance on single vendors and mitigating potential data privacy risks.
2. Cost Savings
LibreOffice is a free and open-source alternative to Microsoft Office, allowing the state government to reduce software licensing costs and redirect funds towards other priorities.
3. Increased Flexibility and Customization
The open-source nature of LibreOffice enables the state government to tailor the software to its specific needs, including security enhancements and integration with existing systems.
4. Community Support and Collaboration
Schleswig-Holstein benefits from the global LibreOffice community, which actively contributes to software development, bug fixes, and feature enhancements. This collaborative model ensures continuous improvement and responsiveness to user needs.
A Model for Other Governments
Schleswig-Holstein's migration to LibreOffice is indeed a big step towards greater digital sovereignty and responsible use of public funds. By embracing FOSS, the state government is setting an example for other administrations seeking to enhance data security, reduce costs, and foster a more diverse and resilient IT ecosystem.
The success of this migration could pave the way for wider adoption of LibreOffice and other open-source solutions across Germany and beyond.
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4 comments
In the artical it is mentioned that they are migrating the PC’s to Linux as well. Is there any more information about this?
I couldn’t find more information. Here is the original statement from the Prime minister -> https://www.schleswig-holstein.de/DE/landesregierung/ministerien-behoerden/I/Presse/PI/2024/CdS/240403_cds_it-arbeitsplatz.html. It is in German.
You might want to embed or at least link the video https://peertube.opencloud.lu/w/rUh7VLPkmkruarXHKeNGqG
The video is from https://blog.documentfoundation.org/blog/2024/12/03/video-government-moving-30000-pcs-from-microsoft-to-libreoffice/
These links are already attached at the end.