How many people do you know that are running software they hate - just because they paid for it? Maybe Microsoft Office 2000, outdated virus protection, or an antiquated financial tool?
I see people resist better made, more modern, free software just because they have "skin in the game" with an inferior product. There is no question that Open Office 2009 is light years ahead of Microsoft Office 2000! But people seem determined to wring every last drop of "value" out of software they waste money on - no matter how terrible it is! (Norton Antivirus comes to mind)
Here is a vivid example set in the real world: Suppose you head down to the local bar and the resident-toothless-hooker is running a $25 early-bird special. Not wanting to miss out on a deal you quickly foist over your deposit. Then you decide to hang out and have a few beers first. While "hanging" you meet a lovely young lady (with teeth) that, after a few shots, takes a liking to you. So the delima - do you cash in on your $25 investment with ol' "Toothless Terri" or do you let the money go and take the much prettier girl home for free?
So yes, Microsoft products are much like toothless hookers - available for a price, they get the job done, present you with numerous legal issues, and are virus prone.
Free and Open Source Software is not cheap or discount by any means - it is just paid for in a different way.
The best things in life are free right?
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteWow, paragraph 4 is hilarious!
ReplyDelete