City of Edmonton Innovates with Microsoft on Open Data Catalogue
Becomes first North American City to Leverage Open Government Data Initiative Solution
EDMONTON, AB. - January 14, 2010 - The City of Edmonton announced today that it is working with Microsoft towards the development of the region's first public open data catalogue. The online site will give citizens and developers easier and more transparent access to information and allow them to develop new solutions and suggest ideas that enhance public infrastructure and services.
"Today's launch of the City's open data catalogue demonstrates our commitment to enhancing engagement and collaboration with the citizens and community developers of Edmonton," said Chris Moore, CIO of the City of Edmonton. "By moving to a more open model and working with Microsoft, we hope to harness the talent and innovation that resides locally to drive Edmonton forward."
Edmonton is the first North American city to use the Open Government Data Initiative (OGDI) solution from Microsoft. The solution has been implemented rapidly and at a very low cost to the City by using open source components and Microsoft's newest cloud operating system, Windows AzureTM technology platform. Using open standards and application interfaces (API), local developers and City IT staff can retrieve data easily for use in new and innovative online applications or mashups that can help improve citizen services, enhance collaboration between the City and private organizations, and increase City transparency.
"OGDI-based solutions not only provide easy access to government data, but also demonstrate how cloud computing can help significantly reduce the cost, complexity and time to market for solutions that consume the data," said John Weigelt, National Technology Officer, Microsoft Canada. "Citizens and community developers will now be able to help solve the business needs of the City of Edmonton, resulting in new solutions in a very short amount of time."
About Microsoft Canada
Established in 1985, Microsoft Canada Inc. is the Canadian subsidiary of Microsoft Corporation (Nasdaq "MSFT") the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential. Microsoft Canada provides nationwide sales, marketing, consulting and local support services in both French and English. Headquartered in Mississauga, Microsoft Canada has nine regional offices across the country dedicated to empowering people through great software - any time, any place and on any device. For more information on Microsoft Canada, please visit www.microsoft.ca.
For more information, press only:
Najat Mahammed, on behalf of Microsoft Canada
416-644-2240, nmahammed@highroad.com
