You have recently completed a study on Big Tech in primary education. What was the main focus of this research?

The Ministry of Education, Culture and Science wanted to understand the extent to which schools rely on companies like Google and Microsoft. We looked at two types of systems: 1) systems for the core processes, such as digital classrooms used for teaching and learning, and 2) systems for the secondary processes, like organization and administration behind the scenes, encompassing file storage and email services.

So, what did you discover? Are our schools 'addicted' to Big Tech?

"The term 'addicted' is too strong, but the dependency is significant. Almost every school board uses Microsoft 365 for organization, and the majority use Google Workspace for teaching. In theory, dependency is not necessarily problematic; these companies offer efficient, secure, and well-regulated services. However, it becomes an issue when there is no freedom of choice, or when public values such as school autonomy are at risk. Schools themselves admit that due to a lack of time, money, and specialized knowledge, they are practically unable to switch independently to an alternative."

Why is it so difficult to opt for something else? Aren't there alternatives available?

"That's true, there are individual alternatives, but Microsoft and Google provide 'one-stop-shops'. Everything is bundled in one package and seamlessly integrated. If a school wants to replace one component, like switching from Microsoft Teams to an alternative such as the Canadian BigBlueButton, they find it challenging as everything is so interconnected. Moreover, the costs for these 'one-stop' packages are currently very low, making any immediate switch more expensive and complex. The ease of use is simply crucial for most users."

Dialogic delved deeper into the alternatives for Big Tech in education in 2024.

Are these dependencies really a concern?

"It depends on the perspective you take.

• From a public values standpoint, we see risks primarily for school autonomy: they have little choice and bargaining power.
• Concerning market competition, there is hardly any real competition as robust European alternatives are lacking.
• And from a strategic point of view, if Microsoft or Google were to fail tomorrow or block their services, a significant portion of education would be disrupted. This risk has increased due to geopolitical tensions, although at present, there is no immediate threat to service delivery."

Nevertheless, Microsoft and Google also offer numerous benefits, don't they?

"Certainly. They excel in efficiency, security, and compliance with rules. No one else has the capacity to build secure and stable services like these companies. Therefore, it is rational for schools to opt for Big Tech. This is precisely the core of the dilemma: one wants to reduce dependence, but the best and most cost-effective services currently come from these very companies."

Why is this issue urgent beyond primary education?

"We observe an increasing risk of service interruptions, partly due to geopolitical tensions. While the likelihood of a total outage may seem small now, the impact would be colossal if it occurred. If a foreign government would demand access to our data through legislation, or if costs were to suddenly surge, we need an alternative. That control, or autonomy, is essential for a healthy democracy."

What is the main message to the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science?

"That there is no quick fix. Becoming less dependent requires investment, collaboration, and long-term decision-making. However, doing nothing is also a choice – and it gradually makes us more vulnerable."

What are the next steps for Dialogic?

"We are currently conducting a follow-up study to map out the dependencies on Big Tech in the sectors of vocational education, higher education, science, media, heritage, and arts and culture."

The research on dependencies on Big Tech in primary education and the government's response can be found here. The study on dependencies in other sectors is expected to be completed by early March.

In 2026, Dialogic is increasingly focusing on issues related to digital resilience and knowledge security. More information on this topic can be found on this page.