Letters to the editor

Desktop Linux

Paul,

Regarding your recent LWN letter about the problems associated with
deploying Linux as a desktop replacement for Windows:

First, thanks for supplying a comprehensive list of problems, that
certainly helps those that want to pursue smoothing the user experience.

I, however, have a problem with your argument that Linux is not ready for
the desktop and that lies in your unspoken assumption:

        Users already use Windows effectively and efficiently.

Your statement "End users of Windows are FAR less intelligent than you
might expect" highlights the fallacy of this assumption. In my opinion,
someone who understands what they are doing under Windows will readily
make a transition to Linux; the problem comes with those who have only
"Push button one followed by button two" understandings of their daily
tasks. This type of user will resist and complain about ANY change, it
doesn't matter whether it is a move to Linux, the next version of Windows
or an upgrade to Office. There is certainly NOTHING wrong with this type
of user; they have a job to do, and that is not become a computer expert.

However, it's important to realize this type of user exists and why they
resist or become confused by Change; it is not because of the inherent
superiority of their current tools, but rather because they know how to
make them do the required tasks. Any change means relearning and
relearning requires admitting not knowing how to do something, which
bothers many people.

So, the end goal should not be "emulate Windows" or "be more efficient
than Windows", that will not really accomplish anything. Rather, the goal
should be to continue to create new designs, improve existing ones and
focus on excellence, not "the other guy".

Regards,


Bill Carlson
-- 
Systems Administrator bill-carlson@uiowa.edu  | Anything is possible,
Virtual Hospital      http://www.vh.org/      | given time and money.
University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics      |       
Opinions are mine, not my employer's.         | 

Comments (none posted)

Whats going on over at InfoWorld?

I am a subscriber to the print edition of InforWorld. In the current issue
it being divulged that most of the columnists who espouse free/open source
solutions are being dropped in favor of a new "format". Of course it wasnt
stated that way but anyone who follows the columns can see a pattern. I am
curious what the inside story is. I was an avid reader of the magazine
until now. I hope that other publications will take this opportunity to
pick up some talented writers.

-- 
David Hartley
penguin@linuxweb.org
Peace, Love, and Penguins

Comments (2 posted)

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