On Sun, 02 Mar 2003 03:35, you wrote: > > My experience with trying to explain the main issues with the acceptance > > of Linux is that most people don't understand.
Here is what I say to people:- > > - They don't understand what an operating system is It's the large program which both gives the hardware its 'character', and it tells the computer hardware how to do what you want it to do. > > - they don't know what source code is the manufacturing blueprints for the programs. > > - Understanding how the GPL can affect their concept of > > "intellectual property"... well forget it. If you use free software it means that you can never again be held to randsom by a software company. > When I try and explain I dont even get that far. They just dont get why > anyone would give software away for "free". For corporates there are two or three main reasons:- 1) By giving away programs you are depriving the competition of sales revenue. e.g Sun Microsystems giving away OpenOfficeOrg in an attempt to punish MS for being so ratty over Java. 2) To be able to sell a more economic solution using their hardware. e.g. The small to medium sized server machines offered by IBM. 3) The 'held to ransom' bit as above. 4) Advertising, you offer a free program, and an enhanced version for money. e.g Sun Microsystems with OpenOfficeOrg and StarOffice. For the individual:- 1) It provides potential clients or customers an open look at your abilities. 2) It makes your soul feel good. 3) Free software can be a hobby from which you get considerable intellectual reward. 4) It's fun. The main problem I have encountered is the "Nobody ever got into trouble ( like losing their job ) by using Microsoft. I just daren't use Linux, what will happen to me if it all turns to custard? I'll tell you, I'll be out on the streets without an income" What do you say to somebody when they come up with that excuse? -- C. S.
