Japanese government will introduce cloud computing to its data network systems and information network-operating costs from the current 390 billion yen a year by 2020, Internal Affairs and Communications Minister Kazuhiro Haraguchi said Friday. Cloud computing, which allows software and stored data to be accessed remotely via the Internet, is said to be effective to cut computer operating costs.
Haraguchi told a news conference that a shakeup in the government’s data network system is necessary, noting that the government as a tax collector needs to be bold in renovating old-fashioned data systems.
On Friday, the Internal Affairs and Communications Ministry convened a meeting of an experts panel for the first time to discuss concrete steps to revamp the government’s network systems, officials said.
Currently, government ministries and agencies operate a total of 2,059 data network systems, many of which are based on old-fashioned large mainframe computers built by makers’ own specifications.
As much as about 180 billion yen in costs are spent annually to operate those mainframe systems, which include immigration and pension data.
The continued use of the mainframe systems prevents newcomers from entering the market and keeps system-operating costs from being reduced, they said.
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