On Tue, 24 Sep 2002, John Hall wrote:
> >1) Why is it that the C.R.S. isn't jumping at the chance
> >to use Linux on any recycled computer?
>
> I took a l@@k at their (minimalist) website, and got the
> impression that they don't do much with the software.
> Does it go out with whatever happened to be on the HD?
> Surely they are not re-installing some version of Windows,
> as that would probably break licence terms, and old versions
> that would run on them are unobtainable at any price IIRC.
Some of the technicians have told me off the record that when a copy
isn't available, they do re-install the same version of Windows, realizing
that they are breaking the licence terms. None of them have used Linux but
they sure have heard about it. I stopped encouraging them to visit CLUG
once I realized how swamped they were.
> Does are target "market" want to "learn Linux", or
> just get some tasks done?
This is a chicken and egg question. I think the question I was leading
towards was "After Linux is installed, who is going to support the
people we help? Is it possible to create seminars that can help those
who want to help themselves?" Not to evade the question, but perhaps this
can help: The C.R.S. "markets" their services to other societies.
> Additional comments...
>
> We (CLUG/Recycling) need to decide who/what is our
> intended market: Schools etc with LTSP, or
> individuals (not networked (LAN), but perhaps a modem).
> Or both?
>
Some groups/organizations that a LTSP can benefit are schools and
businesses. The Computers for Schools society is based in Ottawa and does
work across Canada and they won't return any of my messages. But guess who
does projects with them? The C.R.S.
> If we want to set up useful Linux boxes, can we work
> with/through CCRS? If not, would they supply us with
> hardware? Do we have another source in meaningful
> quantity?
>
The C.R.S. is currently involved with projects with 16 organizations and
counting. They are short on volunteers and long on requests. They
are willing to work with other societies who already have systems and
programs in place to facilitate their own operations. They are not
interested in creating new systems or doing computer research. Their
financial resources and time are limited. You said it: "Minimalist."
> We (CLUG/Recycling) need to decide who/what is our
> intended market: Schools etc with LTSP, or
If CLUG were able to create its own projects, it would be easy to invite
other groups or societies to see what Linux has to offer. New ideas
or solutions would emerge as opportunities for everyone (Having just read
Jesse's comments on how newer Linux versions are better suited to work
with older computers.)
As it stands, it is difficult to convince other groups to work with us,
when we have trouble within our own group organizing an Installfest
or seminars for newbies.
Peter Williams
CLUG Membership #02L02203
CLUG email: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
