Schleswig-Holstein, the northernmost state of Germany, is embarking on a bold initiative to eliminate all Microsoft products from its public offices. This significant transition, which commenced in 2023, is set to conclude by the end of 2025. The state’s digitalization minister, Dirk Schroedter, has made it clear that the region is moving away from Microsoft tools, stating emphatically, “We’re done with Teams.”
The decision to phase out Microsoft’s suite of office software—including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams—reflects a broader strategy to reduce reliance on major US technology firms. Schleswig-Holstein is now actively seeking open-source alternatives, with options such as LibreOffice, Open-Xchange, and various Linux-based operating systems being considered for implementation.
This shift is not merely about software preferences; it is also a response to the current geopolitical climate. The potential return of former President Trump and the rising tensions between the EU and the US have prompted the state to pursue greater digital independence. By adopting open-source software (OSS), Schleswig-Holstein aims to sidestep the hefty licensing fees associated with Microsoft products, which have been at the center of numerous antitrust discussions within the European Commission. This strategic move could lead to substantial savings, potentially amounting to tens of millions of euros over time.
Interestingly, neighboring cities in Denmark, such as Copenhagen and Aarhus, are also contemplating similar transitions away from Microsoft. However, these changes come with their own set of challenges. The adoption of diverse solutions from various providers may lead to interoperability issues, and employees will likely require comprehensive retraining and support throughout the transition period.
Despite these challenges, the desire to sever ties with Microsoft is palpable. Minister Schroedter noted that recent geopolitical developments have only intensified the state’s commitment to this path, reinforcing the urgency of their decision to embrace open-source solutions.
