Social Science and Human Research Bulletin

This study examines the adoption of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) in Indonesian public policy through a qualitative approach. Data were collected from scholarly articles, government reports, case studies, and policy documents, analyzed using thematic content analysis to identify trends, benefits, and challenges. Findings indicate an increase in FOSS adoption, driven by initiatives such as the Indonesian Government Open Source (IGOS) program (2006), the Public Information Disclosure Law (2008), and the need for transparency during the COVID-19 pandemic. FOSS benefits include cost efficiency, security, flexibility, digital inclusion, and community engagement. However, challenges such as regulatory barriers, lack of skilled personnel, legacy systems, and industry resistance hinder implementation. Proposed strategies include streamlining regulations, enhancing human resource training, modernizing infrastructure, and fostering cross-sector collaboration. This study affirms FOSS’s potential as a transformative tool for transparent, efficient, and inclusive governance in Indonesia, with recommendations to address hidden costs and sectoral variations. The findings enrich understanding of the complexities of FOSS adoption, reinforcing its role in achieving an inclusive digital society.

Purpose: To examine the use of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) in Indonesian public policy.

Patients and methods: Qualitative approach.

Results: FOSS serves as a tool for digital transformation, supporting transparent, efficient, and inclusive governance in Indonesia, with recommendations to address hidden costs and sectoral variations.

Conclusion: The findings enhance understanding of the complexities of FOSS adoption, affirming its role in achieving an inclusive digital society.

FOSS, Public Policy, Digital Transformation, Digital Inclusion.

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