I think the core issue in this "freedom" debate is, how do you make money with Linux.
Much has been talked about and written about Linux being being a "Free" product, and
being misinterpreted in most places as "no cost to pocket". In my experience,
companies would like to reduce their IT Spending, to as little as possible, when they
hear "free" in Linux. In fact, that is the only point making across when we talk
"free", to non-technical people, (read Top Managements)
The "Free" as defined by the four degrees of freedom laid down by Richard Stallman,
needs to be propogated more clearly. But in the end, how much each of us individuals,
value the "freedom" being talked about. Honestly, India would'nt have been the place
it has become, had all of valued that "freedom".
I think we must, at ilugd, try to inculcate that "value of freedom" more than free
software. Free Software will follow.
Regarding, commercial launch of Kalkulate, I was present at the launch session.
Certainly its a novel beginning. But it would have been more better, if it had
followed the general linux tradition of being "free". I can understand Sudhir's
concern for his investment, but that is the case with most of the open source
softwares. I have a feeling that development of such products in India is still not
matured in the linux tradition, where most development is carried out through
volunteers, and not through paid staff. That is more problematic in India, because of
poor pay-packets and poor job market scenario. Most people cannot stand on their own
as Raj is. There are very few people with that capability. Most of us are mediocres
and have deep fears on job security. Moreover, most employers do not encourage
individuals with a R&D bent. They want quick high turnover sales. It is this attitude
of employers, which discourages development of people with innovative attitude. In
India p!
articularly, there is a lack of feeling in most individuals to do some thing for
general good. Individuals immediate gains are more important because of poor
job-security and mediocrity all around.
Sudhir, nothing is attributed to you in the last para, but you may be a victim of the
circumstances. The whole point is, as I said in the very beginning, we need to
<BOLD>talk and illustrate more openly, how do we make money with open source,
particularly in Indian Environment.</BOLD>
Lets talk of unutilised - untapped opportunities of Linux in India, where money CAN be
made.
Anand Shankar
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