CICT distribute free CDs to SMEs

The Commission on Information and Communications Technology – Human Capital Development Group (CICT- HCDG) launched Open STEP, a compilation of mature open source applications for micro and small entrepreneurs, on Thursday. Free CDs were distributed at the Megatrade Hall of SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City to mSMEs that signified their willingness to test the "adaptability and appropriateness" of the applications. The CICT evaluates mature and open source applications and selects one per category based on user-friendliness, comprehensiveness and maturity. Included in the package are Turbocash, osCommerce, Adempiere, Orange HRM, TimeTrex, IDCMS, Open Office and other open source support tools. "The project aims to leverage ICT in business operations such that information management can be done efficiently and effectively without added cost on software and also to make micro and small entrepreneurs aware of the Internet's many advantages and benefits, like business-matching, raw materials sourcing, online networks and forums," a CICT press statement said. The project was launched with the cooperation of the Department of Trade and Industry – Bureau of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, the University of the Philippines – Institute for Small Scale Industries, the International Open Source Network, Open Desk and IdeaCorp. - GMANews.TV