[Ubuntu-SG] [Fwd: Re: [Bulk] Re: Ubuntu Users in Singapore]

[Muhammad Heidir]

Finally some life in the mailing list. Let's get to the discussion.

Actually, seeing Ubuntu adoption is great, personally, I feel that the
exposure that Singaporeans have towards Open Source Software barely
makes a ripple. I agree that  Microsoft penetration rate is very high
here, due to the fact that they want systems that just works. Even
schools are using Microsoft Office extensively.

I was hoping that with the new Office Open XML Document format which
just recently got approved by ISO, there should be minimum compatibility
issues, so that users are able to make a choice of using Microsoft
Office or other office productivity suites that support the format.

Somehow, or someway, there must be a way to inform the masses that,
there are choices besides having to choose a single-vendor to provide a
solution. Maybe distribution of information via flyers, like Microsoft
did once to urge users to purchase genuine windows. Thing is, is it
worth it? Are there any interested sponsors? Or we can combine and fork
out a dollar or two. Besides flyers, The best way to start is by telling
people about Open Source through personal blogs. I'm sure you guys have
Multiply, Facebook or Friendster accounts? That's the best way to start.
If we could just put in the effort, we could accomplish something in
return. 
In this way, we can make something foreign be known, maybe even spike
interest in getting to know more about free alternatives.

Apart from being free, we are making people understand that piracy is as
bad as stealing.

Well, here are my suggestions, no need to compete with it. The main
point is, if we help to promote, someday, people just might realize.

Best Regards,
supervivid


> Ya, almost a lot of countries do so, but normally singaporeans
> physically shop. Maybe in US, internet shopping is more widely used
> and flexible.
> 
> Adoption of OpenOffice.org should also involve schools. I believe
> schools should install OpenOffice.org along side with the given
> Microsoft Office.
> 
> As for lugs, it's more diversified, and not restricted to Ubuntu. :)
> 
> Anyway, I believe a lot of them is waiting and seeing ...
> 
> Microsoft Penetration rate here is very high especially, MS Office and
> also Windows MSNP.
> Not to forget there are a lot gamers who play on windows here.
> 
> Selling linux laptops/desktops might not bring the price down?
> I guess some of you have known. The price of tying those
> trialware/bloatware into windows based laptops/desktops significantly
> brought the price of windows in computer down a lot.
> 
> And last time we chat about the salesman problem.
> In computer fair there are cheap laptops that have a plain ubuntu.
> But problem is salesmen are not knowledgable to market laptop with the
> plain ubuntu that is pre-loaded.
> So even if those are bought by people cos of price, people will just
> overwrite it with an oem windows or similar.
> 
> Linux is a foreign OS to many in Singapore. Some Open Source
> Applications are seem to be Inferior/Uncompatible to their Windows
> Applications Counterpart(be it legal or illegal). This is reality
> faced.
> 
> Best Regards
> John
> 
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