Lessons for open standard policies

Abstract

In 2003, Massachusetts embarked on a policy to transition to open standards for information technology. This policy led Massachusetts to switch the format of its electronic documents for its public records from a proprietary, to an open standard. This article documents this historic process, as Massachusetts was the first government to switch its information technology over to open standards. The article also analyzes the Massachusetts experience to develop a set of lessons learned. The resulting guidance should aid governments that are considering policies that encourage or favor open standards.