Can Dutch universities do without Microsoft?
13 days ago
- #education
- #technology
- #privacy
- The International Criminal Court switched from Microsoft to German open-source software OpenDesk due to US sanctions.
- Dutch universities are highly dependent on Microsoft, raising concerns about autonomy and data privacy.
- Open-source alternatives like Nextcloud are being tested but transitioning fully poses challenges.
- Dependence on big tech threatens academic freedom and independence, with calls for more local IT solutions.
- Microsoft's expansion into AI and content acquisition raises further concerns about control and data usage.
- European alternatives exist, but adoption is slow due to convenience and integration issues with Microsoft products.
- Legislation may be needed to protect European tech alternatives from being acquired by big tech companies.