In 2003, Italy's Ministry for Innovation and Technologies issued a directive that states that public administrations (PA) should prefer IT solutions that can export data and documents to at least one open format, such as the Open Document Format.

In the same year, the Code of Electronic Communications charged local administrations with the promotion of minimum levels of Internet connectivity. Several regions have since passed laws that mandate a preference for non-proprietary IT solutions.

The Italian Code of Digital Administration, which became effective on January 1, 2006, requires that any software developed by one PA must be made available at no cost, with complete source code and documentation, to any other PA that can adapt it to its own needs.

Such policies have both economic and ethical rationales. Promoting pluralism in the software field is seen as an excellent way both to save money and to create local jobs and wealth. Universal access to (public) information and knowledge is the other main justification.

Partnership in development programs can be an excellent way to make this happen. Such programs finally make it easy for non-technical managers, those with the real decision-making power, to understand what is at stake and get involved.

To discuss these programs, contact the province of Rome or Flavia Marzano, the Internet economy professor who is assisting Rome and other provinces with these programs.