In July 2009, the Local Government Denmark (KL) along with the National IT and Telecom Agency launched a debate on the potential use of cloud computing services in the public sector. The public discussion will primarily focus on the benefits as well as the obstacles in implementing cloud computing in the Danish public sector.

Cloud computing is perceived as an opportunity to streamline IT management in the public sector and, thus, increase the focus on green IT and innovation. It is a Danish government priority to modernize the public administration in order for public officers to work more closely on citizens' requests and less in administration per se. The use of cloud computing services is expected to be of great value for the public sector, improving the effectiveness of public IT management. However, the main concern is to avoid any risk of compromising safety and privacy issues at the expense of technological innovation.

Moreover, a study showed savings of 71%, if the IT and Telecom Agency moved two of its systems, Digitalisér.dk and NemHandel, from a traditional hosting provider to a cloud-based solution. Moreover, cloud computing services will have a positive effect on energy saving. Several studies have concluded that a more efficient use of server capacity through virtualization and centralization in large data centres, can provide noteworthy energy saving. Within the context of the government's decision to reduce state energy consumption, cloud computing appears to be a sound solution favouring Denmark's eco-policy.

Mr. Michael Hald, consultant of Local Government Denmark, states that the need to start a more thorough investigation on the potential of cloud computing in the public administration is imperative. He also adds that expected savings in terms of time and energy will be significant. In addition to the benefits of introducing cloud computing services, the security concerns raised are taken into a serious consideration. The Head of IT and Telecom Agency, Mr. Christian Lanng explained that the Danish government aims to create an open and active forum to help set the agenda for the future use of cloud computing in the public sector, while collecting practical experiences. The IT and Telecom Agency will engage in a closer cooperation with municipalities and public institutions interested in participating in a pilot project during the coming autumn.

Further information:

• Original News Article - National IT and Telecom Agency - Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation - Official Website (in Danish)
• Local Government Denmark - Website (in Danish)
• Digitalisér.dk - Public Debate on Cloud Computing in Public Sector - Website (in Danish)