ubuntu-users Digest, Vol 48, Issue 164

[Chris Jeffries]

On Sun, 2008-08-10 at 12:00 +0100, ubuntu-users-request at lists.ubuntu.com
wrote:
>         (Question: how would you propagate this initiative to the
>         Windows world?).
>         

First off, I want assurance that people are happy with this discussion
in this list. Please tell us where to go if not.

In answer to your question I think there are three aspects
1. The platform from which to promote
2. Memorability
3. Addressing the real issues

Platform
===========
It occurs to me that most web servers use Apache, and most Apaches run
on Linux, and so there are loads of platforms out there that could be
passing on the message every day, every time someone reads a web page.

A 'Powered by Linux' logo like the 'Powered by Apache' one, with a link
to a really well designed site that would help people to understand how
they could easily do it better.

Memorablity
=============
A catchy strapline is always useful: "Ubuntu is better"

The real issues
===============
For the home user or the small office user:
------------------------------------------
The low cost is a big plus. 
	Ubuntu $0 + OpenOffice $0 + GimpShop $0 +.....
	Vista $100 + MS Office $700 + Adobe Photoshop $700 + .....
Of course they will worry about service but.....
	After sales service: 24/7 number of support agents : millions
and availability of software:
	So a database that links the features of all the popular Windows and
equivalent Linux apps is a must - I guess there already is one, but I've
not found it yet. (I do not think just giving the number of items in the
repository is enough)

For the corporate
-----------------
Connectivity is a big factor: 
	Evolution wins hands down
Integration is a big factor: 
	With Open Source, you can bend and stretch it to your needs
	With proprietary you are in the hands of the proprietors
Security is a big factor:
	With Linux/Unix security is intrinsic, not a bolt on

And of course, with the number of desktops they have to support
Supportability is a factor
	Who can argue this case - I do not know enough - it does seem to me
that being able to log in to a desktop from anywhere enables diagnostics
and fixing from a distance which must save time. Also, being able to
lock away the kernel stuff safely must also be a real big advantage. If
Apple can do it with OSX I do not see why Linux should be any different.

And cost is again a big factor (see above)


Hmmm,  I can feel a research project coming on. I wonder if I could get
funding for it.