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DoD Wary of That "Open" Word
joabj writes, "Why is the U.S. Defense Department still reluctant to use open source software, despite assurances from within the DoD itself? Blogging for Government Computer News, I found at a recent D.C. conference that to some extent the roadblock might be with that word 'open'."
I have direct evidence that some parts of the DOD engine is paying for products with open source compenents. Unfortunately, I can't go into details (yet).
They already use "Open Fire", "Open Range" and "Openpray" why not opensource.
Or do like Microsoft. Use "genuine", instead of "open".
As much as we bitch at the government for hiding this secret project and that wiretapping, why should we be SURPRISED that they don't like the word 'Open'?
You need more redudancy than just LibertyWare. The redundancy ensures that if someone is unable to comprehend or understand a word in the name or product, the extra, redundant words would help them understand and comprehend the method and way that the word is conveyed and used.
would be my suggestion for a DoD-friendly monicker.
Also, I recall whenever I install Oracle (closed source) I have to click an agreement that I will not use the software in the design or production of biological, chemical or nuclear weapons. I've never encountered such a clause when using open source software, so maybe this might be something that would appeal to the DoD, who I presume would rather not be tracked down by one of Larry Ellison's hit squads.
Why don't we drop the Open from Open Source Software and replace it with Available? Then we can be part of the ASS community.
I mean, the best part about ASS is that it's always available for the asking.
I wonder what would happen if a really big organization like the US DoD went to Microsoft when it comes time to renew their bulk licensing contract and specified that the software must be licensed as OSS, and in return offered them twice the amount of the previous contract. What would win out? Greed and good business sense, or jealous protection of the code and the loss of a major customer?)
What would happen is that MS would quickly get on the phone with their lobbyists and start persuading their captive congressmen to start leaning on the DoD to withdraw the FOSS requirement of the contract, but to keep the price at the same amount.
When information is power, privacy is freedom.
People will then assume that "Freedom Software" is a euphemism for "French Software".
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The whole issue is this wimpy, do-gooder pinko commie vibe you get from "open" and "share" and "please don't kill innocent civilians" crap.
Just do a cut and paste and replace "open" with "Dark Top Eagle Hammerfist YMCA Shiny Leather" and you'll see military types lining up around the block for the stuff.
Trust the Computer. The Computer is your friend.