I think that it's generally less fear of the unknown or job security than it is the cost of adding complexity to what is often an already over-extended support load. In many cases it just makes sense to spend $1000 for a server OS that doesn't require additional training, is easy to get qualified techs for, and "just works" with the existing systems. It doesn't matter how easy Linux is; it's one more thing to keep track of and one more thing to go wrong.
If you want to "win" the open source battle at small organisations that don't already have OS operating system tendencies, focus on the application level where you can make a strong business case on a feature-by-feature level, and with additional arguments about truly open data being more sustainable and less risky. Personally I think that an "open source or bust" attitude is not very pragmatic. "Sell" open source software where it is the best tool for the job, but pick your battles. Jason -----Original Message----- From: Alex Mandel Sent: Friday, May 29, 2009 4:25 PM To: OSGeo Discussions Subject: Re: [OSGeo-Discuss] Re: Comparision between MapServer/OpenLayers and ESRI ArcIMS That would be fear of the unknown(non gui) and job security at work. Wouldn't want someone else in the org who knows more about running servers. Maybe you can get them to throw a bone to demo something on a virtual machine hosted elsewhere(Amazon) just to show how easy it is. Welcome to the land of small to medium government agencies, etc. The best thing here is showing examples from equivalent groups, of which there are plenty online now.
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