Digital Transformation toward Free and Open-Source Software University Centre Nour Bachir El-bayadh
Digital Transformation Roadmap
From Proprietary Software to Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS)
Phase 1: Assessment & Planning
Inventory of current proprietary software (OS, office suites, LMS, ERP, design tools, research software)-
Identification of costs, license constraints, and dependency risks-
Mapping proprietary tools to reliable open-source alternatives-
Definition of legal, technical, and pedagogical requirements-
Phase 2: Awareness & Capacity Building
-Awareness campaigns for staff, teachers, and students about FOSS benefits.
-Training workshops and certification programs.
-Creation of technical documentation and user guides.
-Establishment of an internal FOSS support team.
Phase 3: Pilot Implementation
-Deployment of open-source solutions in selected departments.
-Parallel use with proprietary systems to ensure continuity.
-Feedback collection and performance evaluation.
-Security, compatibility, and usability testing.
Phase 4: Progressive Migration
-Gradual replacement of proprietary software.
-Migration of data and digital archives.
-Integration with existing academic and administrative systems.
-Standardization of open formats (PDF, ODF, CSV, etc.).
Phase 5: Optimization & Sustainability
-Continuous improvement and updates.
-Contribution to open-source communities.
-Local development of custom solutions.
-Long-term governance and digital sovereignty strategy.
Introduction
The University Center Nour Bashir el-Bayadh is engaged in a strategic digital transformation aimed at adopting Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS) as a sustainable alternative to proprietary solutions. This initiative reflects our commitment to technological independence, cost efficiency, innovation, and academic freedom
?Why Free and Open-Source Software
Free and open-source software offers transparency, flexibility, and security while reducing dependency on commercial vendors. By embracing FOSS, the university promotes
-Digital sovereignty and institutional independence
-Reduced licensing and operational costs
-Enhanced security through open code review
-Innovation through customization and collaboration
-Alignment with academic values of openness and knowledge sharing
Institutional Objectives
This transformation aims to
-Modernize the university’s digital infrastructure
-Improve access to legal and ethical software for all users
-Strengthen technical skills among students and staff
-Support research, teaching, and administration using open technologies
-Contribute to the national strategy for digital transformation
Scope of the Transformation
The migration process covers
-Operating systems and desktop environments
-Office and collaboration tools
-Learning management systems and e-learning platforms
-Research and scientific computing software
-Administrative and management systems
Training and Community Engagement
A key pillar of this initiative is human capacity development. The university will organize:
-Training sessions and workshops
-Technical seminars and awareness days
-Student and staff involvement in open-source projects
-Partnerships with national and international FOSS communities
Expected Impact
Through this transition, the University Center Noor Bashir Al-Bayad expects to
-Enhance digital resilience and sustainability
-Encourage innovation and local solution development
-Provide students with industry-relevant open-source skills
-Reduce long-term IT costs
-Establish itself as a regional model in open-source adoption
