The Queensland Government recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Microsoft to foster a more cooperative relationship between the two parties.

Queensland Information and Communication Technology Minister Robert Schwarten signed the MOU with Microsoft representatives during his visit to the US in October.

Mike Stoopman said the MOU established a new constructive and cooperative relationship between the Queensland Government and Microsoft, with a focus on deriving value from Microsoft software.

‘One of the desired outcomes of this MOU for individual government departments and agencies is access to pricing benefits which reflect the entire Queensland Government, regardless of the agency’s size,’ Mike said.

‘We also made sure that, with mutual agreement, this MOU allows the Queensland Government to take advantage of any national purchasing agreements that are signed in the future, as this is something we are currently discussing with other state agencies.

‘Overall, we believe the MOU will simplify government licence compliance, optimise software licence expenditure and improve budget forecasting,’ he said.

As part of the deal, Microsoft proposes to establish a Microsoft Queensland Indigenous ICT Fund to further improve access to ICT resources for the indigenous community in Queensland.

For more information please telephone Mike Stoopman on 3238 3597 or email michael.stoopman@publicworks.qld.gov.au for information on Queensland Government engagement with the ICT Industry.