The Swiss federal government is initiating a transition from Microsoft 365 to open-source alternatives. A pilot program will involve migrating 7% of federal workstations, totaling approximately 3,000 computers. The project is budgeted at CHF 9 million, equivalent to $11 million, with a completion deadline set for the end of 2027.
This initiative follows a proof-of-concept phase involving 172 employees who tested the German openDesk platform. While document and email processing functions received positive feedback, video conferencing features showed technical limitations compared to Microsoft Teams. This move aligns with the 2024 Federal Law on the Use of Electronic Means, which mandates the use of open-source software.
Switzerland’s Cyber Command is pursuing an even faster migration to openDesk, aiming to complete the transition by October 2026. The government cites concerns over data sovereignty, vendor lock-in risks, and rising costs associated with US-based software providers as primary drivers for the shift away from Microsoft products.
The Swiss strategy reflects a broader European trend toward technological independence. Similar efforts are underway in Germany and Denmark, while the French National Gendarmerie has utilized open-source software for over a decade, reporting a 40% reduction in software costs following their transition to Ubuntu Linux and OpenOffice.
