"Switching to Linux allowed me to reuse an existing server with minimal resources [and] because [Helma is] Java-based it can run on any operating system," he said. "I use a corporate Windows desktop to develop on and put it in production on Linux."

Lim said a key part of his work is to "keep everything cross platform" and keep to standard Web-based applications because it makes it easy to move from one platform to another.

"We have rack-mounted mini servers driving running Windows with Firefox," he said. "We anticipate a hardware renewal project and will look at running Linux on hardware rather than Windows."

Also in the pipeline is a refresh of the gallery's touch screen applications, which may involve moving from custom application to Web-based system.

"I try to use the right tool for the job [and] I don't choose Linux and go looking for an application for it," Lim said.