Universities are challenged to keep pace with technology innovation across the spectrum of education and research activities, yet must aggressively manage costs even while constantly providing more and better software. The traditional approach of homegrown software left us saddled with unending maintenance, while purchasing enterprise systems leaves us with vendor-mandated cost increases and contract lock-ins. Open source software offers a sensible and effective alternative, combining innovation with scale economy, and shifting control of our software enterprise back to the university.

Drupal has been a core part of the strategy at Oregon State University, and other universities are equally successful in creating and developing enterprise systems, educational toolkits, and research innovation. In this session you'll hear how colleges and universities are taking control of their software destiny, including smart integration of open source, participation in community development, and creating local centers of excellence.