Collaborating with Global Governments and Communities of Interest
We believe that Internet access will one day become as ubiquitous in our daily lives as electricity and telephones are today. And like those utilities, the Internet should be open to everyone.
The Internet's power is an important tool for governments – one that can both unify and divide. It's up to governments to maximize the competitive opportunities the Internet provides for their constituents, without restricting access through excessive regulation.
Sun works as a trusted advisor to governments and other influencing bodies worldwide. In fiscal 2008, we offered advice and counsel in these areas:
- Development of government, institutional, and community policies to promote Sun's vision of open systems
- Technology's role in tackling major challenges, such as sustainable development and improving healthcare and education
- The use of open technology platforms to foster indigenous innovation and boost competitive performance in global markets
- Demonstrations of how open technology used in education can enable new generations of innovators to transform the world
Promoting Economic Development in Emerging Markets
Open source can benefit emerging economies by providing access to technology at low cost. This access fosters innovation, which in turn spurs economic development and growth. The success of our vision depends on highly influential communities accepting the arguments for open systems and pursuing the benefits they bestow. These communities include governments, universities, and nongovernment organizations (NGOs) as well as the next generation of innovators and leaders.
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Government Policy and Engagement
We work closely with many of these groups to help remove barriers to open systems, increase participation, and ensure that economic and social value is realized.
Sun continues its high-profile promotion of the OpenDocument Format () around the world. Governments increasingly embrace ODF as they shape their innovation agendas and bring their citizens online. Recognition and support for ODF as a global standard is steadily growing. In 2008, the —a collection of companies, NGOs, governments, and individuals working to promote and advance the use of ODF as the primary standard for governments—had more than 540 members in 58 countries.
Developing Next-Generation Communities
Governments view next-generation technologists and entrepreneurs as critical for long-term economic development and global competitiveness. Sun plays a major role in exposing these individuals to open principles and technologies. We support students and other young people as they learn to use open technologies to advance their opportunities.
Sun has more than 500 campus ambassadors on university campuses in 30 countries worldwide. These student envoys are sponsored by Sun and bring together fellow students to explore a wide range of technology issues.
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