FOSS can save us!

It is less likely that your Mom will try new software if a price tag stands between her and the experience... is she likely to grow? is she ever going to try anything completely new? Who knows Mom might even find a breakthrough in muffin technology?

The point is that the world has somewhere approaching five billion brains. (how much would proprietary software cost for 5 billion people?) I think those brains could help solve most of the worlds problems if only they were connected, if only they had access to advanced tools (technology). The next generation of scientists, biologists, architects, etc... will need serious software. I am certain that technology and communication is likely the only thing that can save us now...

Free and Open Source Software to the rescue! (I mostly want better muffins)

Open Windows?

Its obvious to me that Linux and Open Source Software is going to do more in the next year or two than it ever has.

With Google, Intel, and IBM all working on desktop versions of Linux to directly compete with Microsoft Winblows. With "the cloud" (web) taking over... With most major PC manufacturers offering Linux PCs as an option now.

I heard yesterday that Microsoft is opening the .pst format to make Outlook more compatible - never thought I'd see the day... How long until they start to open Windows? I agree it will likely start with some retarded Microsoft version of the GPL. But, at some point Microsoft will not be able to control a billion lines of code internally.

And once we are all living in the cloud - who really gives a damn how we get there?


Michael
www.gutsygeeks.com

"I don't want to re-learn new apps..."

You do it all the time already... in Windows! You re-learn new versions of your office suite now and then, your cd burning program, web browser, financial tools, security systems, etc... and once in a while you re-learn your entire OS!

Right now a lot of people are considering Windows 7... My advice is to make that re-learning count for something, and give Ubuntu Linux a try. This way your are re-learning for your own benefit! In fact Ubuntu will save you 50% on the cost of PC ownership (not having to buy software), plus it will keep you safe and sound... FOREVER!

Ubuntu is BEST for home users... and Moms

Cars and Oses

Easy for a driver to adjust to new technology in automobiles. (hybrid cars still have steering wheels right?)

Not So Easy for a mechanic...

Easy for an end user to adjust to Linux OS from Windows. (can you use a mouse?)

Not So Easy for your "go to guru" or a "computer professional"...

This is precisely why your "go to computer guy" is not likely to advise you switch to Linux. Because it is harder for them, and they lose power over you! The less you know the easier it is, and the more you benefit (cost and security).

Linux is best suited for novice users (your Mom)

It is much easier to switch a less advanced user to a modern desktop version of Linux (Ubuntu) than "gurus" and "professionals". Plus, my Mom would be better served by the lack of cost and lack of security issues that plague Windows users.

Moms like to use things like web-based email, edit photos, write letters, play online games, and track their finances. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to learn to use those types of FOSS programs. In fact, Moms can get started with FOSS in Windows (firefox, open office, picasa) and wait for their next PC to take the plunge into Linux.

*FOSS = Free and Open Source Software

*I do not advocate that average users install operating systems themselves (Linux or Windows). The best way to get Linux is to buy a computer already configured with it (Dell/HP/Acer/Asus/RedSeven).