Implications
When specifying IT requirements for software interoperability, data and document
formats, government bodies must request that open standards adhering to the
definition described in this policy8
are adopted, subject to the principle of
equivalence9
.
Whether they are designed and built in-house or outsourced, government bodies
must require solutions that comply with open standards, for software
interoperability, data and document formats, where they exist and meet functional
needs, unless there is a robust and transparent reason why this is inappropriate.
Frameworks for government IT procurements, where applicable, must specify that
open standards for software interoperability, data and document formats should
be implemented, subject to the principle of equivalence, unless there is a clear
business need why an open standard is inappropriate and an exemption has
been agreed.
When specifying IT standards, government bodies must ensure that they are
compliant with European Regulations.
Cabinet Office shall provide guidance to government bodies on the process for
requesting an exemption to the open standards policy.