I have two comments.
First, I know for a fact that AOL is working on things Linux related. I
don't know exactly what that means but I know people that work there that
are working on Linux products. I'm not really at liberty to discuss much
more I just know I've helped them out with Linux specifically for their use.
Second, I know to many I'm the enemy. I work for one of those really big
corporations (IBM) that are the bane of the smaller companies. Hey we once
were as bad as Microsoft but I'm very glad to say we're getting better. It
does give me first hand experience fighting against Windows. I've been
doing it for 10 years with OS/2. The public and businesses are willing to
settle for good enough if it gets the job done. I don't really understand
it because support costs are skyrocketing. The good news is that I saw an
article (on slashdot I think) which indicates that maybe thin clients are
going to be real competition for Winbloat 2K. I've long shared this view.
When the customers find out that less than 25% of their machines can run W2K
they will do some serious looking at alternatives. I for one expect Linux
to get some real attention at that point. Corporate America usually
installs their own custom builds so pre-installation isn't a big issue.
As pointed out previously the average home owner is not installing their own
OS and isn't capable of it. Instead it must be preloaded. Microsoft fights
this with a passion. I'm not one for government intervention but that might
be the only way that a consumer can go to Best Buy or Circuit City and see a
machine running which has been preinstalled with Linux. The stores have
limited support ability and limited shelf space. Back when it had a chance
I used to volunteer to help the stores with OS/2. Getting Linux in front of
the average user is a long way off and a very tough row to hoe.
The priorities, IMHO, are the back office, corporate america and finally the
home.
Also, the good news (perhaps) is that IBM has a very long memory and M$
screwed them badly. There are a ton of people, within IBM, very interested
in having Linux succeed and providing a viable alternative to Windoze.
GGK
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