Independent prototype. Not a Government of Canada service, not affiliated with it, and not official advice. Always verify anything that matters at the source. How this works

GC Simplified
IT

Open by default

A default position favouring public release of information and source code.

Plain English

The position that information and code should be released publicly unless there is a specific reason not to.

If you’re new here

The burden of proof runs the other way from what people expect: the case has to be made for keeping something closed.

What they probably mean

Publishing it is the starting assumption.

Interpretation offered as humour, not authoritative guidance.

Bureaucracy level

Moderate · 3/5

How much government-speak this phrase carries. Playful indicator, not a judgement of anyone using it.

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