"So for us, and many others, open source is a useful tool [that] has already made it as a technology," he said.

"I expect that the possibilities offered will dawn on more organizations, as will the understanding that it's just another tool in the IT kit and not a silver bullet."

Another helpful technology is Web applications, in which Robertson describes himself as a "true believer".

"The delivery of applications via a Web browser has already made significant inroads into our desktop support, while providing flexible and resilient applications for our users," he said. "Web applications have already arrived for those who are willing to look -- and the best is yet to come if Google Maps and Zimbra are any indication of where this technology is going."