City to switch email systems to Google

Amid problems with the city's current email system, Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl on Friday announced plans to join Google's more powerful email system.

Mr. Ravenstahl wants to drop the city's Microsoft Exchange email system and join Google Apps for Government. He said the switch would improve the speed and capacity of the city's email.

The switch was approved by city council.

Mr. Ravenstahl proposed the change the day after system problems limited the city's ability to send emails outside its own system. But the change in email systems has been contemplated for at least a year.

The cost would cost about $400,000 for the first year and $180,000 annually for the second and third years of a three-year contract.

While the city currently pays about $200,000 annually for the Microsoft system, it incurs other "in-house costs," Mr. Ravenstahl's office said.

"Adopting this application aligns with our goals to utilize the best, most innovative technology in order to modernize our government, cut costs, and improve operational efficiencies," Mr. Ravenstahl said.

Pittsburgh would be the first major city in Pennsylvania to use the Google system.

First published on June 11, 2011 at 12:00 am