Internet search services provider Google, Inc., US, is reportedly seeing tremendous interest from the UK government in its web-based Google Apps because of the focus on cost cutting in the public sector. Google Apps is a totally web-based set of tools for businesses.
Google recently launched a version of the offering for the public sector in the US. Called Google Apps for Government, the apps are being used by various bodies in 49 of the 50 states, according to Google.
It has been observed that the UK government is facing various challenges including budget constraints, so adopting a lower-cost platform may be an attractive proposition. However, the UK government is yet to provide Google with details on its ability to shift to cloud computing.
A Google official has stated the company can provide assurances that data will be held in a way that satisfies EU data protection laws. Data protection compliance, however, is seen to remain a worry for IT leaders in the public sector. David Wilde, chief information officer at Westminster City Council, agreed that there is interest in Google Apps for Government, but said there are still ongoing questions about data storage.
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